Barking is a normal dog behavior and the only way for dogs to communicate verbally with people around them. Imagine if you could only speak one word for everything you wanted to say. It’s the same for dogs. They can only bark to express themselves. Excessive barking is also a way for them to communicate or express their feelings. Wondering what causes them to bark incessantly?
Here are the top five reasons why your dog could be barking too much:
1. Boredom
Have you ever been with bored kids? If you have, you would know how they tend to get louder when they are bored. Dogs are the same.
If your dog seems to be barking at nothing, it’s a sign of boredom. As the owner, it is your responsibility to keep your pet occupied and engaged. Make sure you keep them entertained with toys, games, and exercise so they don’t get bored.
2. Anxiety
Stress and anxiety are some of the most common reasons behind excessive barking in pet dogs. The biggest factor that can trigger this anxiety is separation from their human companions. However, it can also be caused by trauma, physical pain, chemical imbalance, loud noises, and confinement in small spaces for long periods. If you think your dog has experienced any of these and is experiencing anxiety, as a result, schedule an appointment with a dog behavioral expert at your earliest.
3. Fear
Dogs barking and lunging at strangers is seen as a sign of aggression. But, the behavior often stems from fear. Tail tucked in, ears laid back, wide eyes, and crouching are some other signs accompanying barking when a dog is afraid. Look out for these signs and consult a veterinarian or an experienced dog trainer to deal with your dog’s fear.
4. Physical Needs
Many dogs express their needs by barking, which often continues until their specific need is met. This could be to demonstrate hunger, thirst, or when they need to do their business.
5. They Just Want Your Attention
Dogs crave for their owners’ love and attention. And barking is one of their ways to attract attention. However, the situation needs to be dealt with very carefully. Giving your dog attention in response to barking can inculcate wrong behaviors. It’s best to consult a professional dog trainer to learn how to address barking for attention-seeking.
The Sum Up
While you may feel happy when your dog gets excited and greet you by barking as you return from school or work every day, excessive barking can be irritating. But, as the pet parent, you need to understand that it’s the easiest way for them to communicate with you. Therefore, instead of getting exasperated, try to understand their behavior and identify the underlying reason(s) behind your dog’s excessive barking. Professional dog trainers can come to your rescue in this situation. They can help you figure out why your dog is barking too much and learn the best ways to put an end to it.
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