Key Takeaways
- Decipher dog barks: Understand your dog's vocalizations by paying attention to the pitch, frequency, and duration. This helps you interpret their emotional state and address their needs effectively. Consider a vet visit if barking increases dramatically.
- Fulfill your dog's needs: Prevent excessive barking by ensuring your dog's physical, mental, and social needs are met. Incorporate enrichment activities and training into their routine.
- Consult a professional: For persistent barking issues, seek guidance from a certified professional dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist. They can help pinpoint the cause and develop a personalized training plan. Environmental adjustments can also significantly reduce barking.
Understanding Barking as Communication
Dogs bark for various reasons, often to communicate their needs and emotions. Think of it as their way of talking to us and other dogs. A quick bark might mean "Hey, I'm here!" while a series of sharp yaps could signal alarm. Expressing emotions like excitement, fear, boredom, or frustration are all part of a dog's vocal repertoire. While some barking is perfectly normal—like when your pup greets you at the door or enjoys a romp at a Sniffspot—excessive barking can be a sign of an underlying issue. If your dog barks for hours each day or only in specific situations, like when left alone, it's worth investigating the cause of this excessive barking.
The History of Barking: From Wolves to Our Best Friends
Barking behavior likely evolved from wolves, who use a variety of vocalizations for communication within their packs. Howls, whines, and yes, barks, all play a role in canine communication. Over thousands of years of domestication, barking has become a more nuanced form of communication in dogs. They've learned to use different types of barks to convey different messages to us, their human companions. It's fascinating to think that our dogs' ability to communicate through barking is rooted in the social structures of their wild ancestors. And while a wolf howl at the moon might signify something completely different than your dog's bark at the mail carrier, both are powerful forms of expression.
Pay attention to the pitch, duration, and frequency of your pet’s bark
These three factors will help you understand your dog’s vocal communication.
What does the pitch of your dog’s bark mean?
Among animals, low-pitched sounds typically indicate threats or the possibility of aggression. (Think of a dog’s deep growl growl.) Conversely, higher vocalizations—like a soft whimper—usually mean the exact opposite.
What does the duration of your dog’s bark mean?
The longer the sound, “the more likely the dog is making a conscious decision about the nature of the signal and his next behaviors,” says psychologist and canine expert Stanley Coren.
This means your dog might not even realize they’re reacting to something if they only give a short, quick bark. (Have you ever gasped or said “woah!” when someone startles you without consciously moving your mouth?) But if they make a sustained cluster of noises or drag out a howl, your pup is probably fully aware of what they’re doing.
What does the frequency of your dog’s bark mean?
If a dog repeats their bark frequently and at a fast rate, it indicates a high degree of excitement or urgency. (Hi! Hello! Pay attention! Now!) Anxious barking is usually like this.
Barks that are more spaced out or not repeated at all indicate lower levels of arousal.
Territorial or protective barking
It’s perfectly natural for dogs to be territorial of their homes. In fact, this is likely one of the reasons ancient humans enjoyed having canines around. Our companions naturally warn of approaching threats!
If your dog barks when another animal or person enters your property (your yard, your car, sometimes even the area around your driveway) they’re probably feeling territorial. As the “intruder” gets closer, their barking might get louder and more rapid.
(Many dogs can simultaneously show some protective instincts while still being social with visitors once you, their owner, greet them. Again, think about the function of this behavior in the early days of the canine-human partnership! If you’re concerned about your pet’s behavior when you have guests over, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a professional trainer to keep everybody safe.)
Protecting Possessions and Resources
Dogs may also bark to protect valued resources, such as food, toys, or even their favorite spot on the couch. This is a natural instinct, rooted in survival—but it’s important to manage resource guarding to prevent problems. While some dogs might only give a warning woof if you approach their full food bowl, others could become aggressive if they feel their prized possessions are threatened. Early training and socialization can help prevent resource guarding, but if you’re concerned about your dog’s behavior, consult with a certified professional dog trainer or a veterinary behaviorist.
Alarm or alert barking
Alert barking is sometimes equated with territorial barking. There is some overlap in situations where the barking might occur, but generally alarm barking and territoriality are two different things—although the same dog might do both.
What’s the distinction? Alert barking occurs when a dog barks at a loud noise or object that catches their attention—usually if they feel startled by it—not just on their home turf. This can happen in any situation. It’s usually due to sudden environmental contrast (your dog being surprised by something appearing that wasn’t previously there) rather than territorial instincts.
Dogs who alarm bark sometimes show perfectly normal body language if it’s merely an instinctual response they aren’t that aware of. Other times they look actively afraid of the noise or sight that caused the reaction, in a fear barking response. You can read more about interpreting your dog’s body language in this article.
Both territorial barking and alert barking can be especially tough for people who live in apartment or condo situations. Neighbors make a lot of noise—and it’s not fun when our dogs make their own vocalizations back! It’s especially important to create positive associations with sounds in your building if you’re one of these pet parents.
All the while, remember that alert barking is a completely natural canine trait. It’s one way your dog instinctively communicates with you—their trusted family—about what’s going on in the world around them. It’s important to be empathetic and patient.
Fear and Anxiety
Beyond alarm barking, general fear and anxiety can trigger barking. Think of it this way: your dog barks for many reasons—warning of danger, expressing excitement, wanting to play, needing something (like a refill of their water bowl). It's all communication. Sometimes, that communication stems from feeling scared or anxious. This might be due to loud noises like fireworks or thunderstorms, unfamiliar people or dogs, or new environments. Just like some of us talk more when we're nervous, some dogs bark more when they're experiencing anxiety. This can also manifest as a fear barking response, where a dog looks actively afraid of the noise or sight that caused the reaction.
If your dog's fear-related barking is excessive, consider consulting a veterinarian or a certified professional dog trainer. They can help determine the underlying cause of your dog's fear and recommend strategies for managing it. Sometimes, fear-based barking can be a symptom of a larger issue, and a professional can help you address it. You can also find more resources on dog training and behavior on Sniffspot's blog.
Boredom or attention seeking barking
Attention seeking barking is often referred to as demand barking. When your dog feels their needs haven’t been met—and remember here that social interaction and mental stimulation are basic needs for your pup to be their healthiest!—vocalizations are one way to let you know. They’ll often make direct eye contact while they communicate with you.
It’s common for dogs to bark because they need to go outside to use the bathroom or they’d like to play a game. Some dogs also bark for food, especially when their family is eating at the table.
A common way to address alert barking is to teach an alternative behavior for your dog to communicate their needs, like ringing a doorbell for attention.
Frustration-Induced Barking
Dogs can also bark out of frustration. This often happens when they are confined, unable to reach a desired object, or feel their needs aren't being met. This frustration-induced barking can manifest in several ways. A dog might bark incessantly at a squirrel they see through the window, expressing their frustration at not being able to chase it. Similarly, a dog left alone in a crate for long periods without adequate mental or physical stimulation might bark due to pent-up energy and boredom. As we discussed earlier, even something as simple as an empty water bowl can be a source of frustration, leading a dog to vocalize their needs. Understanding why your dog barks is the first step to addressing it.
Providing more mental and physical stimulation can help alleviate frustration and, consequently, reduce barking. This could involve regular exercise, interactive playtime, puzzle toys, or even training sessions. A tired and mentally engaged dog is less likely to bark out of frustration. If your dog experiences frustration due to confinement, consider providing a larger space or more opportunities to explore and interact with their environment. A visit to a safe and enriching dog park can sometimes make a world of difference.
Greeting and play barking
Some dogs let out a woof or two when greeting other dogs or people—whether strangers or friends. This type of barking is usually associated with loose, wiggly body language that suggests your dog is happy to say hello.
Many dogs also bark—and make other vocalizations, like growls and “Chewbacca noises”—during typical canine play. This can get loud! But there’s no need to worry as long as both parties are taking turns and enjoying the interaction.
The Joyful Sounds of Greeting and Play
Greeting and play barks are usually higher-pitched and shorter in duration. They often occur when your dog is excited to see you or another dog. Some dogs let out a woof or two when greeting people—whether strangers or friends. This type of barking is usually associated with loose, wiggly body language that suggests your dog is happy to say hello.
Many dogs also bark—and make other vocalizations, like growls and “Chewbacca noises”—during typical canine play. This can get loud, but there’s no need to worry as long as both parties are taking turns and enjoying the interaction. Dog parks and other dog-friendly locations can provide opportunities for safe and enriching play.
Separation anxiety barking
Dogs, like humans, are social mammals. They bond closely to members of other species. (This particular trait sets them apart from many other types of canines, like wolves.) It’s perfectly normal for your four-legged best friend to dislike being left alone.
Some mild whining when you leave the house for a long period of time usually isn’t cause for great concern. A few barks here and there when your dog hasn’t gotten much enrichment are normal too.
If your dog is making noise the entire time you’re not home, though—or if they’re unable to relax in another area of the house while you’re busy with work tasks—they might be developing separation anxiety or a related behavior problem.
Statistics on Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is a common issue for dogs. In fact, many dogs (8 out of 10, according to the RSPCA) experience stress when left alone, often expressing this through excessive barking. If you think your dog might be struggling with separation anxiety, it's always a good idea to chat with your veterinarian or a certified professional dog trainer. They can offer personalized guidance and support. For more information on separation anxiety and its connection to barking, check out this helpful article on the Sniffspot blog.
Compulsive barking
Some dogs struggle with compulsive behaviors, akin to humans who have obsessive compulsive disorder. This can result in near constant barking.
Vocal communication like barking can also be a self-reinforcing behavior, even in the absence of other people or animals. Barking might feel good to your dog… so they continue to repeat their vocalizations without needing any external praise or motivation. This cycle can quickly get out of hand.
Medical Reasons for Barking
Sometimes, excessive barking can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. As the RSPCA explains, excessive barking is a problem if it's disruptive to others or suggests a deeper issue with the dog. Pain, discomfort, or cognitive decline can all contribute to increased barking. It's important to rule out medical causes with your veterinarian before addressing behavioral reasons for the barking.
Hearing loss or other health concerns can also cause increased barking. If you suspect a health problem is behind your dog's vocalizations, check with a vet. If your dog barks when touched, see a vet immediately, as this could be a sign of pain.
While some barking is a self-soothing behavior—barking can actually feel good to your dog—it's important to differentiate between normal vocalizations and those caused by discomfort or illness. If your dog seems distressed or their barking has suddenly changed, a vet visit can help put your mind at ease.
Remember: Barking is normal
It’s important to remember that barking is not inherently “wrong.” No dog should be expected to never bark at all!
That said, there is such a thing as excessive barking in many different situations.
Make sure you’re meeting your dog’s basic needs and providing plenty of enrichment opportunities. If they’re still vocalizing more than you think they should? There are some steps you can take to reduce the noise. Excess barking is one of the most common behavior issues dog owners report.
When is Barking a Problem?
While barking is a natural canine behavior, it becomes a problem when it’s excessive, disruptive, or causing distress to your dog or others. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step to addressing problematic barking. It’s important to remember that what constitutes “excessive” depends on individual circumstances and community expectations. A few barks at a delivery driver are different than hours of nonstop barking every afternoon.
Here are some signs that your dog’s barking might have crossed the line from normal communication to a behavioral issue:
- Duration: Is your dog barking for extended periods, even when the initial trigger is gone? This could indicate anxiety, boredom, or compulsive behavior. If your dog barks incessantly while you’re away, they may be experiencing separation anxiety.
- Frequency: Does your dog bark at everything and anything? Frequent, reactive barking can be a sign of fear, territoriality, or a lack of proper socialization. Excessive barking is one of the most common behavior issues dog owners report.
- Intensity: Is your dog’s barking high-pitched, frantic, or accompanied by other stressed behaviors like pacing, panting, or destructive chewing? This suggests a higher level of arousal and potential underlying emotional distress. Understanding your dog's vocalizations helps you better communicate with them and address any underlying issues.
- Context: Does your dog’s barking seem disproportionate to the situation? For example, barking aggressively at passersby from behind a fence might signal a fear-based reaction. If your dog's fear-related barking is excessive, consider consulting a veterinarian or a certified professional dog trainer.
- Impact: Is your dog’s barking disrupting your household, bothering neighbors, or impacting your dog’s quality of life? Even if the barking doesn’t seem excessive to you, it’s important to consider its effect on others. It’s important to remember that barking isn't inherently “wrong.” However, finding a balance is key for a harmonious living environment.
If you’re concerned about your dog’s barking, it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian or a qualified dog trainer. They can help you determine the underlying cause of the barking and develop a plan to address it.
How to treat problematic or excessive barking
Identify the cause of your dog’s barking
Assess the whole situation and try to understand the complete picture of your dog’s barking. Vocalizations can sometimes be the symptom of larger problems like an incompatible lifestyle (usually a lack of enrichment), excessive stress, or outright fear.
Think of it like addressing a medical issue. You can try to treat only the symptoms of a condition… but it’s always better to cure the root cause if possible. If your dog needs more fulfillment and exercise, and they’re barking to express their boredom? Trying to eliminate the barking without also changing up your enrichment routine won’t do any good in the long term. That’s why so much of this article stresses the importance of meeting your dog’s needs!
Rule out medical conditions first
Dogs might also bark or otherwise vocalize (think whining, whimpering, or howling) because they aren’t feeling well.
If your dog used to be pretty quiet but has suddenly started making more noise—especially when moving in certain ways—it’s a good idea to go in for a complete veterinary check up just in case.
Develop a treatment plan based on your dog’s barking motivation
A professional force free trainer will help you evaluate your individual dog’s barking and design a tailored training plan. If you’re really concerned about your dog’s mental health, you might consider working with a veterinary behaviorist as well.
Some common strategies to reduce barking include:
Make sure you’re meeting your dog’s basic needs
We’re happy to be a broken record on this point. It’s always a good idea to evaluate your dog’s basic needs before focusing on specific training situations.
Even if your dog’s barking is driven by more than a treatable health or fulfillment problem, making sure their needs are met will still help you maximize your training success.
Manage your environment to reduce barking
Do what you can to manage your dog’s environment, especially if they are barking in response to certain stimuli.
Some examples of management to minimize barking:
- If your dog barks when they hear someone talking outside, try putting on white noise, such as background audio of rain sounds or soft classical music.
- If your dog barks at passersby that they can see through the window, close the blinds or move furniture out of the way so they can’t see outside all the time.
- If you know the mail carrier usually comes around 3:00 and that sets your dog off, take them for a walk or car ride starting at 2:45 so you’re not home.
- Get creative with factors that are in your control! (You can read more about management in our Ultimate Guide to Dog Reactivity, too.)
Provide your dog with more enrichment
Enrichment activities can be the perfect solution to start helping with excessive barking, especially if your dog’s vocalizations are attention seeking or come from boredom. Paired with appropriate physical exercise, things like food puzzles, snuffle mats, and thoughtful training sessions can keep your dog entertained without running either of you to the ground.
Learn more about enrichment:
Teach your dog to bark (and be quiet) on cue
Take advantage of your dog’s barking to teach them to be quiet. By teaching what’s called “paired cues,” you can train your dog to both speak and be quiet during the same training sessions!
Note that this should be done carefully. The last thing you want to do is reinforce your dog for barking and lose control, inadvertently making the problem worse. (It never hurts to have a professional trainer on your side to help out.)
You can learn more about reinforcement, rewards, and markers in our Dog Training 101 guide. Those training techniques and concepts apply to teaching your dog to “speak” and be quiet on cue!
Ignoring Attention-Seeking Barks
If your dog barks to get your attention, ignoring the behavior can be an effective strategy. As mentioned earlier, this type of barking is often called demand barking. Think of it like a toddler throwing a tantrum—any reaction from you, even a negative one, can reinforce the behavior. Don't give them eye contact, touch, or even scold them. Turn your back, leave the room, or simply pretend they don't exist. Once they stop barking, even for a brief pause, reward them with attention and praise. You can even incorporate a doorbell or other designated communication tool so they have a more appropriate way to get your attention.
Counter-Conditioning and Desensitization
These techniques involve gradually exposing your dog to their barking triggers while rewarding calm behavior. This helps them associate the trigger with positive experiences, reducing their anxiety and barking response. For example, if your dog barks at the mail carrier, start by having them sit far away from the window while the mail carrier is still down the street. Reward them with treats for staying quiet. Gradually decrease the distance as they become more comfortable, always rewarding calm behavior. If your dog barks at other dogs while on a walk, try changing your route or putting more distance between your dog and the trigger. Counter-conditioning and desensitization can be complex, so consider working with a professional trainer for guidance.
Addressing Underlying Anxiety and Fear
If anxiety or fear is the root cause of your dog's barking, creating a safe and predictable environment can help. This might include establishing a consistent routine, providing a safe space like a crate or dog bed, and using calming aids like pheromone diffusers or calming music. Try enrichment activities to help redirect their anxious energy and provide mental stimulation. If you suspect your dog has separation anxiety, our article on separation anxiety barking offers more specific tips.
Remember that sometimes, a dog's environment isn't a good fit for their personality. If you live in a busy apartment building and your dog barks at every noise, it might be worth considering a change of living situation, if possible. A quieter environment could significantly reduce their stress and barking.
Consulting a Veterinarian or Professional Trainer
For persistent or severe barking issues, consult a veterinarian or a certified professional dog trainer. They can help you identify the underlying cause of the barking and develop a tailored training plan. A veterinarian can also rule out any medical conditions that might be contributing to the barking and recommend medication if necessary. Find top dog trainers in your area on Sniffspot.
Dog barking is normal—and excessive noise can be improved with training!
Barking can be annoying, but learning what your dog is trying to communicate—and developing some tools for minimizing excessive barking—will help you keep your cool and strengthen your relationship with your dog.
We’re cheering (well, barking) for you!
Trainer Review of this Article
There is so much misinformation out there, we want to make sure we only provide the highest quality information to our community. We have all of our articles reviewed by qualified, positive-only trainers.
This is the trainer that reviewed this article:
Shannon Finch
AnimalKind Training M.Ed. Humane Education Karen Pryor Academy. Certified Training Partner. Certified Tellington TTouch and TTEAM Practitioner
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