Barking Up the Right Tree: Understanding Why Dogs Bark and What to Do About It
Barking Up the Right Tree: Understanding Why Dogs Bark and What to Do About It
Ah, barking—the universal language of dogs. Some dogs bark to greet you, others bark because they think the mail carrier is out to destroy the universe, and some just enjoy the sound of their own voice. But when does barking cross the line from normal communication to an issue that needs addressing? More importantly, what should you do (and what should you absolutely NOT do) when your dog turns into a furry alarm system?
Let’s break it all down so you can tackle barking with a game plan that makes sense—for both you and your four-legged chatterbox.
Why Do Dogs Bark?
Dogs bark because… well, they’re dogs! It’s one of their primary ways of communicating. Also, some breeds were bred to bark! But barking isn’t just “random noise.” There’s always a reason behind it. Here are the most common reasons dogs bark and how to handle each one:
1. Alert Barking: “INTRUDER ALERT! INTRUDER ALERT!”
Dogs have an innate need to warn their humans about potential threats. Whether it’s a delivery person, a squirrel on the fence, or a suspiciously placed garbage can, some dogs will sound the alarm at anything unfamiliar.
What To Do:
✅ Acknowledge the bark: “Thank you, I see it!” Then redirect. I like to redirect with a Touch. Thanks for doing your job, now come do something else!
✅ Teach a "Quiet" cue—reward when your dog stops barking on command.
✅ Use management tools like frosted window film or strategic barriers to reduce visual triggers.
What NOT To Do:
🚫 Yell at your dog. They’ll think you’re barking too!
🚫 Give excessive attention—this reinforces the behavior. Remember - anytime you touch your dog you reward the behaviour!
🚫 Expect them to never bark at all—alert barking is normal, but it should be controlled.
2. Demand Barking: “GIVE ME ATTENTION, HUMAN!”
Your dog barks when they want something—food, pets, a game of fetch, or just your undivided attention.
What To Do:
✅ Ignore the barking. Only reward quiet behavior.
✅ Teach an alternate behavior, like sitting politely for attention.
✅ Be proactive—make sure your dog’s needs are met (exercise, mental stimulation).
What NOT To Do:
🚫 Give in to the barking (or whining)! This teaches them that barking = getting what they want.
🚫 Try to “reason” with them. Dogs don’t understand negotiations.
3. Boredom Barking: “I HAVE NOTHING TO DO!”
Dogs who don’t get enough physical or mental stimulation often bark because they are bored.
What To Do:
✅ Increase exercise—more walks, playtime, training, and enrichment.
✅ Use puzzle toys and food-dispensing toys to keep their brain engaged.
✅ Set up a structured daily routine so your dog has predictable activities.
What NOT To Do:
🚫 Leave your dog alone with nothing to do for long periods.
🚫 Assume just “tiring them out physically” will solve the problem—mental stimulation is just as important!
Remember - physical exercise = adrenaline and endorphins. Mental exercise = tiredness!
4. Fear or Anxiety Barking: “HELP! I’M FREAKING OUT!”
Some dogs bark when they feel scared or anxious—this could be triggered by thunderstorms, loud noises, or being left alone.
What To Do:
✅ Identify and minimize triggers when possible.
✅ Use counter-conditioning: Pair scary things with treats to change their emotional response.
✅ Provide a safe space, like a crate or a cozy den. Distance is your friend!
✅ Try calming aids—Thundershirts, white noise, or even calming supplements.
What NOT To Do:
🚫 Punish the barking—this can increase anxiety.
🚫 Force them to "face their fears" without proper desensitization.
5. Territorial Barking: “THIS HOUSE IS MINE, BACK OFF!”
Some dogs are extra protective of their home and family and bark at anyone who dares come near. AHEM……Mr. Finlay……
What To Do:
✅ Teach a "quiet" or "go to your spot" cue.
✅ Reward calm behavior when people approach.
✅ Reduce exposure to triggers (like blocking their view of the street).
What NOT To Do:
🚫 Encourage it by saying things like “Who’s there? Go get ‘em!”
🚫 Use punishment-based methods—they don’t address the root cause.
6. Play Barking: “THIS IS SO MUCH FUN!”
Some dogs bark when they’re excited—especially during playtime.
What To Do:
✅ Teach an “inside voice” or “quiet” cue.
✅ Encourage breaks during play to prevent overstimulation.
✅ Reward quieter play instead of loud, chaotic interactions.
What NOT To Do:
🚫 Completely discourage all play barking—it’s a normal way for dogs to express joy!
🚫 Overexcite them if they’re prone to excessive barking.
7. Separation Anxiety Barking: “DON’T LEAVE ME!”
Dogs with separation anxiety bark excessively when left alone. This often comes with other signs like pacing, destruction, or house soiling.
What To Do:
✅ Gradually desensitize them to being alone—start with short departures.
✅ Use enrichment (stuffed Kongs, lick mats) to keep them occupied.
✅ Consider a trainer or vet for severe cases—sometimes medication can help.
What NOT To Do:
🚫 Scold them when you come home—it won’t fix the anxiety.
🚫 Leave them alone for long periods without preparation.
Final Thoughts: Barking Isn’t Bad—But It Needs Boundaries
Barking is a natural behavior, but excessive barking can be frustrating. The key is to identify the reason behind the barking and use the right approach.
💡 Quick Recap:
✔️ Acknowledge alert barking, then redirect.
✔️ Ignore demand barking—reward quiet instead.
✔️ Provide plenty of enrichment to prevent boredom barking.
✔️ Use positive reinforcement and training to curb excessive barking.
With consistency, patience, and a little detective work, you can help your dog become a polite pup instead of the neighborhood noisemaker. Now go forth and embrace the bark-less balance! 🐶🎮
Got a barker at home? Share your dog’s funniest barking moments in the comments below!
Leave a comment