Dogs bark to get attention. Just as children whine, dogs may bark to get their owner’s attention. This can be an annoying whiny bark, and it may be linked to the dog wanting to go outside, needing basic care, or simply wanting attention.
Dogs can be taught other, more appropriate ways to get their owner’s attention, from nuzzling a hand to standing at the door. It’s up to the owner to read his or her dog’s signals, however.
Dogs bark out of boredom or anxiety. Dogs get lonely and stressed, just as humans do, and they bark to relieve their emotions or tension. This bark is often the one that triggers the most irritation for owners and neighbors, and it can be a very annoying sound, sometimes high pitched and full of frustration.
A dog that is bored or anxious is a needy animal. These dogs desperately yearn for the attention of their owners. A bored dog will benefit from exercise, training, or a fun toy that dispenses treats with a little bit of work on the part of the dog. An anxious dog may be alone for too many hours throughout the day, or it may be chained outside by itself. Dogs are social animals and need to spend time with their owners.
If the dog is regularly with its owner and continues to suffer from separation anxiety, it may be comforted by the sounds of a radio or TV. It may also want to sleep on an unwashed shirt or blanket that smells of its owner. Spending more time in active playtime with its owner may help the dog feel more bonded.
Barking may be natural, but excessive barking can be annoying for a dog’s owners and their neighbors. Dogs bark to communicate their needs, and owners as pack leaders should listen to better meet those needs.
If your dog continues to bark inordinately after you have made adjustments to your own behavior, it’s time to consult a veterinarian or behaviorist for professional assistance.