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Don't Ignore Barking Dogs

If a dog feels threatened, it may bark to warn somebody to stay away or leave. Other times, they may bark because they want something in particular.

Paying attention to what our dogs are trying to tell us when they bark can be difficult, like when they yap around dinner time or when they howl after someone rings the doorbell. On other occasions, our furry friends seem to bark at nothing.

Things to pay attention to when analysing a dog's bark:

Frequency, Pitch and Duration

• ?Frequency: Short burst of barks is intended to grab your attention - possibly due to fear or excitement.
• Pitch: Frightened dogs are known to give off high-pitched barks, while dogs who feel threatened may emit low-pitched barks or growls. "High-Pitched" and "Low-Pitched" will depend on what kind of dog you have.
• Duration: Short, clipped barks often indicate that a dog is excited or startled, while a prolonged series of barks and growls may mean something else entirely, so pay attention.

Alert Barking

When a stranger approaches or passes by, your dog will let out an alarm bark to let you know that something is happening. You will become very familiar with this type of barking and should be able to recognise that your dog is trying to get your attention. See what they are barking at and establish the direction they are barking towards.

Alert or alarm barks usually begin with a short high-pitched yelp followed by a short burst of deeper barks. Usually, the barking subsides when the stranger passes or your dog realises whatever has grabbed their attention is not a threat.

When you realise your dog and your neighbours' dogs are barking excessively, alert security immediately – especially if it is late at night.

Source: www.safecommunity.co.za