Dog owners spend lots of time training their dogs to understand their commands, but they don’t always put the same amount of time into learning the language of their canine companions. Whether they’re expressing happiness, annoyance, fear, or excitement, canines have a variety of vocalizations associated with how they’re feeling. When decoding the intentions behind your dog’s bark, we’ll boil down their abstract language to three primary factors, being pitch, frequency, and duration.

Pitch

Similar to how a human’s tone of voice indicates emotions, dogs also use the pitch of their voice to express feelings. While a higher bark may indicate happiness, a lower pitch bark may highlight a dog’s anger or fear towards something or someone. Due to every dog having a naturally different voice, their pitches may vary depending on breed. For example, a small dog’s low pitch could resemble that of a high pitch in a larger dog.

There are many reasons why dogs bark, although it always means they’re attempting to communicate a thought. Canine’s may bark to indicate a warning, offer an invitation, call as a sign of distress, or simply because they’re excited. Deciphering the intentions behind your dog’s barking can become complicated though, such as how a growl can also indicate playfulness. Not to be misinterpreted, a growl should be taken seriously as it can warn of an upcoming bite, however, a soft-growl can be a sign that your furry friend is looking forward to playtime.

Frequency

When your dog’s barking rapidly, this means that they are urgently attempting to communicate an idea. This type of frequent repetitive bark at a fast pace can show that your dog is either stressed or overtly excited. While their pitch being high or low can reveal why they’re barking at such a high frequency, this type of bark always shows that a canine is trying to gain your attention.

You may also observe your dog frequently snorting or grumbling in low pitch, which generally is a signal that they want you to do something. Most dogs have variety of vocal sounds they express to show when they’re tired, hungry, ready to go home, hyper, or just hoping you’ll give them some pets. Reading into the context of your dog’s barking will help determine whether it stems from nervousness or excitement.

Duration

The duration of your dog’s bark indicates how much thought and intention they’re trying to communicate. Generally, the longer a dog hold’s their bark, the greater the likelihood that they’re displaying dominance and holding their ground. On the other hand, a shorter bark or growl could suggest their nervousness about dealing with a situation.

A howl, which is one of the more common canine forms of long duration communication, is typically a form of locating other animals or humans. Howling may also show a dog’s desire for attention, alerting their owner of an oncoming threat, or even just a sign that they’re having fun. Whining is another form of long duration vocalization which generally shows the anxiety level in a dog. Whining is often used as a method to beg for food, although it can also reveal signs of distress or pain in your dog.

Dr. Bill’s Canine Behavior Support

Does your dog exhibit excessive barking, anxiety, begging, or other unfavorable behavioral issues? These are all traits that can strain the relationship you have with your pet. Fortunately, you can help your dog manage the root of bad behavior by allowing them to naturally relax with Dr. Bill’s Canine Behavior Support. Canine Behavior Support tablets are made of a unique and effective combination of natural ingredients that helps reduce the negative effects of stress in your dog. It is exceptionally useful when boarding, traveling, or training your dog.