The Barking Dog Font Size: [small] [medium] [large] Some canine-behavior problems, such as house soiling, affect only a dog's owners. However, problems such as escaping and excessive barking can result in neighborhood disputes and violations of animal-control ordinances. Therefore, barking dogs can become "people problems." If your dog's barking has created neighborhood tension, it might be a good idea to discuss the problem with your neighbors. It's perfectly normal and reasonable for dogs to bark from time to time, just as children make noise when they play outside. However, continual barking for long periods of time is a sign that your dog has a problem that needs to be addressed. The first thing you need to do is determine when and for how long your dog barks, and what's causing him to bark. You may need to do some detective work to obtain this information, especially if the barking occurs when you're not home. Ask your neighbors, drive or walk around the block and watch and listen for a while, or start a tape recorder or video camera when you leave for work. Hopefully, you'll be able to discover which of the common problems discussed below is the cause of your dog's barking. Social Isolation/Frustration/Attention Seeking Your dog may be barking because he's bored and lonely if: He's left alone for long periods of time without opportunities for interaction with you. His environment is relatively barren, without playmates or toys. He's a puppy or adolescent (under 3 years old) and doesn't have other outlets for his energy. He's a particularly active type of dog (like the herding or sporting breeds) who needs a "job" to be happy. continued on next page < back to original page