Barking in dogs - communication or problem behaviour?

What does barking mean in dogs?

Barking is a vocalisation - but not a disturbance. It is part of our dogs' natural communication. They bark to draw attention to themselves, to warn, to greet, to demand, to get rid of frustration or to communicate. Barking is multifaceted. And as always in the dog world: the context decides.

We - Lui & Paulina - don't see barking as a problem, but as a signal. It shows us that the dog wants to communicate something. If we understand why a dog is barking, we can work on it in a targeted way - without restricting the dog's ability to express itself.

Why do dogs bark?

Dogs bark for very different reasons:

• Attention: "Look at me, I need something."

• Frustration: e.g. with leash aggression or underchallenge

• Insecurity or fear: as a reaction to stimuli or threats

• Protective instinct: when guarding the house or garden

• Joy and excitement: e.g. at a reunion

• Boredom or sensory overload

Excessive barking is often caused by a combination of a lack of exercise, a lack of understanding and a lack of structure in everyday life.

When does barking become a problem?

Barking is not a problem in itself. It becomes one when it:

• occurs excessively and without recognisable cause

• is no longer controllable

• causes permanent stress - in the dog, in humans or in the neighbourhood

Many owners try to suppress the barking with "off" or punishment - without questioning why it occurs in the first place. The result: the dog feels even more misunderstood and looks for new ways to make itself heard.

Our approach at Vitomalia

We always start by analysing when, how often, in which situations and with what motivation does the dog bark? Then we work together with the human on a training plan based on three pillars:

1. Understanding and observing: What is the trigger? What does the body language look like?

2. Build up alternatives: The dog learns that there are other, calmer ways to communicate.

3. Management and structure: limit stimuli, offer security, integrate utilisation and relaxation.

We specifically use calming markers, relaxation training, impulse control and positive reinforcement. No pressure, no punishment - just understanding and change.

Our conclusion

Barking is not a disturbance - it is language. And as with any language, it's worth listening carefully before passing judgement. A dog that barks has something to say. If we learn to understand his message, we can work together to find ways for him to express himself differently - without ignoring his needs.

Because real education begins with real listening. And that's exactly where we start at Vitomalia.