There are many reasons why a dog barks, and all owners should be aware of what each one can indicate, as well as how to make their dog feel more at ease
Even though it’s a pretty universal noise, dog barks can have different meanings. Most dog owners will be pretty in tune with their dogs sounds, but do you truly know what each bark is signalling?
It’s the only way dogs can communicate to tell us they need something. Whether it’s to go outside, to warn us about another person or animal, someone is at the door or even if they want attention, each woof has a meaning.
But your dog’s bark could land you in some hot water – as it is usually the most common noise complaint. It could see owners in court and slapped with some pretty nasty fines. However according to the RSPCA, there are things we can do to stop dogs from communicating so loudly. RSPCA pet welfare expert Dominika Jagoda revealed what some of the most common bark meanings are.
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Separation anxiety
If your dog barks when you’re not around, they may be experiencing distress at being alone, Dominika said. Dogs may bark when they are left alone which can cause noise issues for neighbours. “The good news is, you can train your dog to be left alone for periods of time without experiencing anxiety or distress – the key is to start small and build it up,” the expert advised.
Fear
Sometimes barking may signal your dog is experiencing a type of fear and can either be when they are scared of someone approaching them or of another dog, or if they are trapped with no escape route and need help. “These barks are often deeper and the dog may growl alongside – a defense mechanism to help mask their fear from a potential predator,” Dominika said.
You can help by making sure you introduce your pooch to new dogs and people slowly and in a calm environment, where your dog feels safe. Provide plenty of reassurance and reward them if they stay calm.
Warning
Dogs like to protect their territory, which is why your dog may bark when the postman comes to the door or if they see people walking past their home. While it can be annoying, the expert said you can mitigate this by reducing access to windows or gardens, and having tasty treats or toys at hand as a distraction when people approach the house.
Boredom
Another reason for the barks could be simply down to boredom. “Dogs are intelligent, active and social animals – and even though they sleep for 12 to 14 hours a day, sometimes a walk or two each day won’t cut it. And much like children, when they get bored, they might moan about it,” Dominika said.
You can help keep your dog stimulated by walks, or using toys such as snuffle mats to keep them busy. A range of different toys will also help keep the boredom at bay.
Excitement
In the same way we cheer or whoop, dogs also express being excited by barking. This could be when they spot one of their friends, have a new treat or toy or even spotting a bird or squirrel – it’s their way of showing how happy and raring to go they are. Dominika said it’s usually more of a high pitched park with a wagging tail and perked up ears.
So to try and stop the barking being too loud, the expert said the best way to help your dog is to establish a routine. “Having a consistent daily routine in place for your dog, which includes meal times as well as play and exercise at roughly the same time each day, helps your dog to know what activities are going to happen and when. This may stop them barking to ask for attention, food or walks.”
She also suggested to help find ways to help your dog feel calmer and more relaxed when they are alone. This could be done by leaving a ‘special toy’, getting a dog walker or sitter, or even chatting with a pet behaviourist to help understand the barks.
The RSPCA receives a lot of concerns every year from people who are concerned about barking dogs. The charity, which focuses on helping animal victims of cruelty and neglect, is asking people who are worried about excessive barking dogs to follow simple steps to help them:
- Speak to the owner – they may not be aware there’s a problem. If they are aware and working on it, it will provide some reassurance.
- If that doesn’t work, contact your local council about the noise complaint. If there is a welfare concern, they will contact the RSPCA.
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