Why Do Dogs Bark?

Updated on
Why Do Dogs Bark?
Have you ever looked at your dog while they're barking and wondered, why?
Well that's exactly what we here at Pawtion wanted to find out - why exactly do dogs bark?
The main thing to remember that a dog barking is completely normal, as it's their primary form of communication! They do however, use barking to communicate a variety of different feelings, as well as using their body language!

Why Do Dogs Bark?

 Excitement

dog barking

One of the main reasons our furry friends yap at us is because they're simply excited! Think when you come home to your dog, they're buzzing to see you after a long day so they'll happy bark! They also often wag their tail which shows they're happy to see you!

Attention

dog barking

If your dog wants your attention, they'll often bark at you. They may be trying to communicate with you to feed them or walk them.
This specific bark is often a single yap with a gap in-between them, and their body language is more relaxed and less energetic.

Fear/Anxiety

dog barking

They might seem fearless, but our pups often bark out of fear or anxiety. This could be due to a number of reasons like a stranger coming into the home or seeing another dog nearby.
This is your dog saying 'What is this?', and is often followed by a growl. Their body language can display thing such as their tail between their legs, as well as a low head posture.

Pain

barking dog

Unfortunately sometimes our dogs get hurt, it's inevitable for all the mischief they get up to! They often bark as they're in pain, and it's a sign to their pack that they want the pain to stop.
If you go to pet your dog and they bark, they may be in pain and anticipating the petting to hurt. This could be a sign to take them to the vets.

Reactive

dog barking

If your pup is spooked or surprised they may let out a single yelp. This is more of a reaction than anything to be concerned about.
Their body language to go with this can be completely random, as they weren't expecting to have to bark in the first place!
Updated on