Guest Posting: Why dogs bark

Every once in awhile I like to do a guest posting for another business. We support each-others blogs and learn something new at the same time.

This guest post is brought to you by Dog Fence DIY's staff veterinarian Dr. Susan Wright. Dog Fence DIY has a variety of wireless electric dog fence systems to choose from. Dog Fence DIY not only has a variety of systems but will also help figure out which system is most beneficial for you and your pet. You can count on getting the lowest price for the best product.

Dogs bark for a reason, and unless you understand why your dog is barking, it's very hard to put a stop to it. Here are some common reasons for dogs to bark excessively:

• Alert their pack (that means you!) of an intruder in his territory. Unfortunately a dog's definition of intruder can be quite different to ours. He may try and chase birds from the yard, or bark to chase a squirrel from his territory.

Some dogs take this a step further and bark at anyone walking past their fence, or even dogs in the next yard. In this case, you can often solve the problem by restricting the dog to an area where he can't see the fence, or the dogs. There's nothing to trigger his barking, so he should stop.

• Your dog may also bark to get attention. He may want a pat, or to play ball, or he can even bark to make you feed him.

The problem with this behavior is that in many cases, you pat him or play with him or feed him, to stop the noise. Bad move. If your dog discovers that barking gets him the attention he wants, there's no incentive for him to stop.

• Some dogs who suffer separation anxiety bark constantly when they're left alone. These dogs also show other symptoms of anxiety such as panting and can be destructive.

If your dog has separation anxiety, or if your initial efforts to reduce his barking don't work, you may need the help of a veterinary behaviorist. They can confirm the reason for your dog's excessive noise making, and help develop a plan of attack.

• Frustration or boredom leads to excessive barking, particularly in working breeds. They may also dig holes and pull the laundry off the line to amuse themselves. These dogs need training and exercise to keep their minds and bodies active.Try to provide a stimulating environment for these dogs.

Sometimes leaving him with interactive toys such as stuffed kongs or plastic balls which dispense kibble when they're rolled around will be enough to keep him amused and alleviate his boredom.


It's worth making the effort to manage your dog's barking. It's not only good for neighborly relations, but he may also feel more relaxed, and be a happier dog.