Why Do Dogs Bark at Other Dogs?

It happens everywhere. You and your dog are walking calmly down a busy street when you approach a fenced yard where three other dogs start barking. Within minutes, the whole street is an unbearable orchestra of whining, barking, whimpering, growling and all of the other sounds produced by dogs living in the neighborhood. Why do dogs bark at other dogs? The answer is simple: They have things to say.

Territorial Barking

Most dogs bark at other dogs simply to warn them it's their territory. It's their way of saying: ''Get off my property." This behavior is reinforced by the fact that most times, the ''invader'' dog will eventually leave the area anyway if it is simply walking by.

Excitement Barking

Two friendly dogs that know each other may bark enthusiastically and wag their tails when they see each other as if saying ''Hi, great to see you!'' These often are short, sharp barks inviting each other to a play session.

Identification Barking

This barking is not aggressive. A dog might bark from a distance and then another dog might shortly bark back, as if saying: ''Hi there. I am over here."

Fearful Barking

Dogs that bark and growl when other dogs are approaching sometimes are exhibiting fear. The bark and growling generally intensify as the other dog gets closer, another way of saying ''Stay away from me, I do not like you close to me."

Entertainment Barking

Some dogs left outside all day often feel entertained by barking and scaring off other dogs and people. They simply get a kick out of it, perhaps thinking: "I am powerful, just look how I sent that other dog running away, so much fun!''

Prevention/Solution

Barking at other dogs can be annoying at times, especially when the barking never seems to end. Dogs should be taught from an early age to stop barking on command. Most times the word ''enough,'' said in the right tone, will do.

References

• Why Dogs Bark

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish