Discovering the Cause of Barking in Dogs

If nuisance dog barking is a problem, consider these issues to find a solution.

Some clients tell me that they love coming home because their dog greets them excitedly by jumping and barking. They feel this proves their dogs love for and bond with the family.

But look at a dog in a natural setting he doesn't bark and yelp and jump on his pack mates in a burst of affection.

So what are my clients dogs trying to say?

Looking Deeper for Answers
Dogs that greet their owners in this way are trying to communicate. But rather than professing undying love, they're probably trying to tell you that they're lonely and bored and that their needs as a dog are not being met. The excitement that you see is your dogs way of burning off the excess energy that has been building throughout the day.

People shouldn't be disappointed by this revelation. This just means that dogs don't use emotions like people do. Remember, they're dogs. To love a dog means you must treat him like an animal, which means fulfilling him as Nature intended him to be fulfilled.

Now, lets get back to our barking dog. So-called nuisance barking which is often ongoing and not in response to a particular stimulus, like a jogger running by the house is your dogs way of sending you a distress signal.

Somewhere his needs as an animal are not being met. Is his world anchored by a pack leader who projects calm, assertive energy? Are you walking with him every day, which exercises his body and his mind? Is he living a balanced life?

If nuisance barking is a problem, consider these issues to find a solution. Its the best way to show real love for your dog.

Next Step: Tips for a dog who jumps up on guests

Cesar and his pack
Get more tips from Cesar.

Note: Cesar Millan is a professional. Please consult a qualified trainer before attempting these techniques with your dog.

For more information, visit Cesar Millans Dog Psychology Center where the express purpose is to rehabilitate and maintain a dogs natural state of being.

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Give us your opinion on Discovering the Cause of Barking in Dogs

Keishara Canaan, Vermont

1/18/2013 3:29:31 PM

I have a two year old pure bred black lab. Whenever she sees people she does not know she barks and will continue to do so the entire time the are around. If she isn't barking then she is muttering and will not stop until they leave. I have tried bribing her, distracting her by talking to her but neither have worked. I do not know what to do. Could you help me?

Susan Norfolk, Virginia

1/16/2013 6:05:02 PM

My dog eats anything and everything, socks, underwear, rocks, tree branches, etc. We had to take to the vet for eating tacks. I've tried a muzzle, but I really don't like that. I don't know what to do. HELP!!!

Caroline Atlanta, Georgia

12/18/2012 4:52:35 PM

I have a 15 months old poodle , the first 6months he was fine all of a sudden he started this high pitch bark or loud noise at first we thought he was hurt , screaming at any given time getting off the elevator if some gets on sometime , or walking by someone only sometime , my condo has ask me to move or put my dog down everyone says its not normal , I don't know what to do ? He is a beautiful chocolate poodle please help me I have 60 days . Oh yes I've tried training it has not worked .

Lizamar Freeport, New York

9/16/2012 3:48:10 PM

My terrier mix is only 7 moths old ; every guest that comes to The house all he does is barks at them and some time I don't know how to stop him and it's not only to the guest that he does that to also to my family members that live in the house.He hears them coming down the stairs he bark,he sees them coming inside the house he also barks.I really don't know what to do I want him to stop this habit ; I know is good that he barks a people who he doesn't know because it makes me feel same that he is warning me that someone is coming but now he does it for very single thing he hears and sees ! I want some tips or some ideas in how to change that!