Excessive barking in dogs

Understanding why your dog is barking is the first step in managing it. There are several possible reasons dogs may bark excessively:

Breed traits

Some dog breeds are a lot more vocal than others, depending on what they were bred for. So, it's important to do your research on breed traits before adopting or buying a dog to ensure they will be a good fit for your lifestyle and living environment.

Health issues

If your dog recently started barking more than usual, it is a good idea to consult your vet. Changes in your dog’s hearing, pain or underlying health issues can contribute to increased barking. For example, untreated pain has been linked to new or worsening fear of noises, such as skateboards or loud vehicles.

Environmental triggers

Dogs may bark in response to things happening around them, such as people walking past your home, other animals, or unfamiliar sounds. Barking is often a way for dogs to warn others about real or perceived threats. Dogs may also bark if they see something exciting, like a cat or another dog. You can redirect your dog from barking by getting their attention and then calling them away from their trigger to get a high value reward or to play with a favourite toy.

To reduce barking caused by visual triggers, consider blocking your dog's view using weed matting, brush fencing, or privacy film on windows. If barking is triggered by specific noises like revving motors, fireworks, or thunderstorms, bring your dog inside to a quieter space and play calming sounds to help mask the noise. SPCA has a playlist of soothing music designed for pets.

Separation-related anxiety

If your dog barks or howls when left alone, they may be experiencing separation-related anxiety. Other signs include destructive behaviour, include chewing furniture especially around windows and doorways, toileting in the house, and excessive excitement when you return home.

To help your dog become more comfortable being alone, gradually increase the time they spend apart from you. Start by leaving them in a separate room for short periods while you're home, then slowly extend the duration. To help your dog view time alone more positively, provide puzzle feeders with high value treats or hiding treats around the house. You can do this even when you are home but in a different part of the house or pop out for a few minutes.

Dogs with separation-related anxiety often recognise cues that signal you are leaving, like putting on shoes or picking up keys. To reduce anxiety, make these actions less predictable - put on your shoes but stay inside or pick up your keys without leaving. Repeat this throughout the day. Avoid making a big deal out of departures and arrivals, instead leave quietly and return calmly.

If your dog’s anxiety continues or your dog is showing severe signs of anxiety, we recommend working with an accredited behaviour consultant or trainer.

Boredom

Barking can be self-rewarding, meaning some dogs bark because it feels good. A bored dog is more likely to bark excessively.

To prevent boredom, ensure your dog gets daily physical exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction. Activities like sniffing walks, food puzzles, and playtime can help keep their mind engaged. If you’re away for long periods, consider having a friend visit, hiring a dog walker, or using doggy daycare a few days a week.

What to do:

• Reduce exposure to triggers

If your dog barks at passersby, other dogs, or loud noises, bring them inside, limit their access to windows, move them to a quieter area, or mask sounds with soothing music.

• Ensure they have enough of physical exercise

Take your dog for a walk or play energetic games like tug before leaving them alone. If they have had a chance to burn off some energy, they are more likely to settle down for a nap when you are busy or out of the house.

• Ensure they have mental stimulation

Use puzzle feeders, hide treats around the house, or take your dog on slow “sniffari” walks where they can explore and sniff at their own pace. See this article for more enrichment ideas.

• Avoid leaving them alone for extended periods

If your dog struggles with being alone, start with short periods and build up their independence over time. You may need to ask your friends or family for help in avoiding leaving them alone or consider a doggy daycare.

• Be patient and seek help if needed

Behaviour change takes time. If excessive barking persists, we recommend reaching out to accredited trainer or behaviour consultants for tailored help and support.

What not to do

• Do not punish your dog for barking

Barking is often linked to fear or excitement. Punishing a barking dog can increase their anxiety and may lead to new problem behaviours.

• Do not use anti-bark collars

Anti-bark collars, including shock, citronella, and ultrasonic types rely on punishment and can cause stress, fear, and anxiety, potentially worsening barking or leading to other behavioural issues like aggression. They do not address the underlying cause of barking.

• Do not use anti-barking muzzles

Muzzles designed to prevent barking can interfere with a dog's ability to pant, drink, and express normal behaviours. The incorrect use of muzzles may also breach the Animal Welfare (Care and Procedures) Regulations 2018 in New Zealand.

Excessive barking can be frustrating, but it’s important to understand that barking is a normal behaviour for dogs. Rather than punishing your dog, focus on identifying the cause and using positive, reward-based training methods to address it. Providing enough physical exercise, mental enrichment, and reducing exposure to triggers will go a long way in managing barking. If needed, seek guidance from an accredited trainer or behaviour consultant to ensure the best outcome for both you and your dog.

By taking the time to train and support your dog, you’ll not only reduce excessive barking but also strengthen the bond you share.