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VetVine Client Care

Posted On Oct 01, 2015

Updated On Jun 25, 2025

Nuisance Barking

Behavior

Barking is a normal behavior of dogs. Some of the expected or "normal" reasons for dogs to bark include:

  • Guarding against a perceived threat or strangers in their territory
  • Social facilitation (barking when other dogs bark)
  • Alarm barking (barking when they hear a noise)
  • Frustration or boredom


Back in 2015, Dr. E'Lise Christensen - a veterinary behaviorist - spoke to us on this topic:


Dogs that bark excessively (nuisance barking) can be at risk for relinquishment or euthanasia - particularly in municipalities with noise ordinances. 

Excessive barking in dogs can also be associated with other problem behaviors or conditions including separation anxiety, cognitive dysfunction syndrome, stress, and hearing or visual impairment. Dogs that bark due to anxiety, fear, and distress require individualized treatment plans, as they may have abnormal levels of agitation and need personalized attention to address their issue(s).