Why Your Dog Won’t Stop Barking

It is natural and normal for a dog to bark. It is their form of communication, but when it’s done excessively, it can be very bothersome. If you live in an apartment building, your dog’s habit of barking most of the day will create troubles with the neighbors.

No matter how you put it, it is extremely unpleasant to have a dog that won’t stop barking. So, let us look at the reasons behind excessive barking and solutions that will help you correct this unwanted behavior.

Your dog is alarmed by something

Your dog is, by nature, a very protective creature. When an intruder or stranger approaches you, he’ll feel the need to take action and protect you or his family when needed. So, when your dog barks, it may be because something triggered an alarm in his head.

For example, hearing the doorbell ring, someone knocking on the door, or seeing a stranger by the window, are the most common triggers that can make a dog bark. It is their way of warning you that something is going on.

So how do you stop your dog from barking in these situations?

My recommendation is not to raise your voice or yell at your dog. This will only make things worse. Instead, divert your dog’s attention from the trigger with his favorite toy or take him to a different room. You can also train your dog to distance himself from the door when the doorbell rings.

Your Dog suffers from anxiety or utter boredom

Depending on the type of dog that you have, certain breeds don’t appreciate being away from their owners for too long. These dog breeds are prone to developing separation anxiety and develop all sorts of unwanted behaviors.

If your dog is in distress when you’re away, he will begin to bark as a way to get your attention. Unfortunately, some dogs can bark for hours in a row after your departure.

Of course, anxiety can also be provoked by the sight of a stranger approaching the house or your return home after several hours of absence. Stress can be something that appears as a result of joy or fear.

This is why dogs that bark and launch at people, for example, can be considered aggressive. In most cases, dogs do this as an intimidation method in order to keep what they consider dangerous at a distance, and not necessarily because they want to bite.

Your dog is demanding something

Some dogs bark because they want to make a demand. As mentioned earlier, this is their way of communicating, so when your dog wants something, there’s no other way to say it. What can your dog want?

His barking may be due to barking. It may be his attempt to let you know that it’s time to go on a walk or that he needs attention.

How can I tell if my dog is asking for something?

Pay attention to how your dog is barking. When your dog is making a demand, his bark is shorter. It can be one longer bark followed by several short ones. Or he can bark with longer pauses in between while looking at you insistently.

After a while, it will be easier to determine the cause behind your dog’s bark, so you will know how to stop it more effectively.

He does it out of too much excitement

Some dogs bark out of excitement as well. For example, your dog may bark when seeing another dog while walking outside. In this case, your dog gets excited at the sight of the other dog.

If you like playing catch with your dog, you probably noticed that your dog barks before you manage to throw the ball or stick. This is again done out of excitement, as your dog tries to make you start the game sooner, so he can chase his toy.

However, there is a thin line between excitement and fear. In other words, if your dog senses danger or feels intimidated in any way, his excitement may turn into fear. So, pay attention to your pup’s body language. If you notice that your dog is backing away from something or someone, he may be scared. But, if he jumps on you after you enter the house, he’s happy to see you.

Your Dog Seeks Attention

Because a dog can’t actually speak to us, paying attention to the context to their barking will help a lot in determining what causes his behavior. Some dogs may start barking because they are bored and need something, like playing or going for a walk.

Your pooch can also bark out of frustration, like when his favorite toy is stuck under the couch or when his water bowl is empty. So, when there’s no obvious threat, maybe your companion is just trying to make a point. Thus, watch for clues that will indicate what your dog is trying to say.

Wrap Up

Dogs bark as this is their way of communication, but this doesn’t mean that all dogs bark in an excessive manner. You can keep this under control with proper education and by correcting your dog in a gentle way when he barks too much.

Of course, there are dog breeds that are calmer and won’t bark unless there’s no other way. If you want to see what dog breeds are not too keen on barking, visit the website of Charlotte Dog Club. Here you can easily find the ideal companion that will suit your preferences and lifestyle.

About the Author

Kate is a Marketing Specialist for Charlotte Dog Club, and has a Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Behavior. She is interested in anything dog-related and understands that having a happy life alongside your companion is more than training it for obedience.