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Dog Behavior: Barking

Dog Behavior: Barking

Barking is vocal communication for dogs

Before you can find a solution to a barking problem, you must identify its cause. If your dog is repeatedly rewarded for barking by attention or action on your part, he will learn to use barking to get what he wants.

Your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist can help you decode your dog’s reasons for problematic barking and suggest solutions for your specific situation. It will take time to teach your dog to bark less.

Types of barking

  • Territorial
  • Alarm
  • Attention-seeking
  • Greeting
  • Compulsive
  • Socially-facilitated
  • Separation anxiety
  • Illness or injury

Problem barking can be frustrating to deal with. Your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist can help!
 

Updated: May 13, 2023