Behaviour

Barking is a form of communication. When people or other dogs are around, barking can be a statement intended specifically for them. When a sound is used as a means of communication from one creature to another, the rudiments of language exist. Language after all is just a complicated arrangement of verbal/vocal cues. We can communicate with dogs by means of our language, but we are often rather poor at understanding their requests.

Canids (wolves, foxes, jackals, coyotes and dogs), communicate amongst each other in three ways: chemically, visually and vocally. Dogs bark more frequently than wolves and in many different situations. It has been suggested that the reason for the difference lies in the dog's domestication by humans. Domestication has also altered the physical appearance of dogs. Dogs nowadays present a striking example of neoteny, which is the retention of juvenile characteristics in adults. Dogs are similar to wolf puppies in many of their mannerisms and physical features, such as large heads, large eyes, submissiveness, floppy ears and vocalising. An increased tendency for dogs to bark is thought to be as a form of communication to humans.

Research on dog barking has shown that there are different types of dog barks.

These can be classified as:

A warning bark - This is a low and quiet bark, but the noticeable growl increases in intensity and ultimately turns into a howling growl. Dogs use this to signify a potential danger, and therefore it is normally associated with territorial intrusion. The dog will continue to bark and may also bare his teeth if an immediate threat is perceived.

An alarm bark - This type of bark involves short barks at a time. Barking of this nature may continue until the dog sees that some action is being taken. Such barks ensue generally from what dogs can hear but are unable to see, like a car parking nearby or a doorbell ringing.

Prolonged barking - Uninterrupted barking is the dog's way to communicate that he is alone and lonely. It is a kind of plea for company or attention.

Yelps- A single or a series of yelps is generally caused by pain.

Stutter bark- Although it is out of place to ascribe the prefix 'stutter' to a dog's bark, it is the only way to describe this type of barking. A bark that sounds like a halting bark in a low pitch normally conveys that the dog wants to play. A rising pitched stutter bark is a sign of excitement.

Dogs rely on vocalisation in order to communicate with owners and other dogs. Understanding what your dog is trying to say will help strengthen your bond!