Ask a Teacher



WHY DOES A DOG BARK ?

Barking, along with whining, howling and growling, is a dog’s natural means of communication.

A dog may bark for a number of reasons: to induce play, discipline young, warn of danger, threaten intruders, or it may bark because it’s curious.The dog is hot, cold, hungry or thirsty. This is the dog’s way of requesting that you accommodate one of its needs. A dog may become a problem barker due to insufficient exercise – the dog’s pent-up energy is released through barking.
The dog is bored, excited or anxious. This can be the dog’s way of requesting attention, or may be a compulsive behavior resulting from a frustrated need for social and/or mental stimulation.
Environment
Improper confinement (restrictive tethering, being locked in a pen alone for long periods, lack of shelter) can all lead to a dog that barks excessively. Additionally, excessive barking may be triggered by environmental cues (other dogs barking, passing cars, sirens, storms, etc.).


comments powered by Disqus