Author: Evie Van Hove

My dog barks at other dogs: what can you do?

Barking at other dogs on a walk can be a common problem. It can range from a few barks to intense barking accompanied by leash pulling, growling, or even attacking behaviour. While this behaviour can be annoying and sometimes embarrassing, it is important to understand that there may be several underlying causes. In this blog, we dive into the reasons why dogs bark at other dogs and what you can do to address this behaviour in a positive and animal-friendly way.
 

1. Why does your dog bark at other dogs?

There are several reasons why a dog may bark at other dogs. It is crucial to identify these underlying causes so that you can deal with the behaviour in a targeted way. Here are some of the most common reasons:
 

1.1. Fear or insecurity

Many dogs bark at other dogs because they are afraid or insecure. This can be caused by a lack of socialisation, a traumatic experience with other dogs, or simply a lack of confidence. When a dog feels threatened, barking can be a way of keeping that threat at a distance.
 

1.2. Overexcitement or enthusiasm

Some dogs bark out of excitement and enthusiasm. They see another dog and want to greet or play, but do not know how to control their emotions. This can occur especially in young dogs or dogs that do not get enough exercise and mental stimulation.
 

1.3. Frustration

Dogs can become frustrated when they are tied to a leash and do not have the freedom to approach another dog as they would like. This frustration can manifest itself in barking, pulling on the lead, and sometimes even attacking behaviour.
 

1.4. Terrain guarding or protection drive

Some dogs bark at other dogs to protect their territory or a resource such as their owner. This behaviour often stems from an instinctive need to guard their environment.
 

1.5. Lack of socialisation

If a dog is not well socialised, it may react to other dogs with barking because it does not know how to behave or what to expect. This is common in dogs that have had little contact with other dogs during their critical socialisation phase as puppies.
 

1.6. Medical causes

In rarer cases, excessive barking at other dogs can be caused by medical problems, such as pain or a neurological condition. If your dog's behaviour changes suddenly for no apparent reason, it is advisable to consult a vet.

2. Interference behaviour and barking: what's the difference?
 

Barking at other dogs can sometimes lead to or be associated with shedding behaviour. Rejection behaviour is when a dog reacts aggressively to other dogs by growling, barking, or lunging at them. This behaviour can stem from the same causes mentioned above, such as fear, frustration, or a protective urge. It is important to note that attacking behaviour is often an escalation of barking and can become a serious problem if not dealt with properly.
 

3. How can you tackle barking at other dogs?
 

Dealing with this problem depends on the underlying cause, but there are some general guidelines you can follow to improve your dog's behaviour. An important step is to never punish or yell at your dog, as this can only make the problem worse.
 

3.1. Avoid punishing, calling, or reprimanding

Punishing or reprimanding your dog when he barks at other dogs is counterproductive. This can increase your dog's anxiety or frustration, making the problem worse. Moreover, your dog may start associating you with negative experiences, which can harm your bond. Instead, it is important to stay calm and guide the behaviour in a positive way.

3.2. Identify the cause

Before you can work on a solution, you need to understand why your dog barks at other dogs. This is often best done with the help of a clinical behaviourist, who is trained in identifying the subtle signals and triggers that cause your dog to bark.

• Observe the behaviour: Pay attention to what happens just before your dog starts barking. Are there specific types of dogs he reacts to? Is there a difference when he is on leash or off leash? These observations can provide valuable insights.

3.3. Work with a clinical behaviourist

A clinical behaviourist can help you create a personalised plan specific to your dog's needs and personality. They can guide you in training your dog and help implement techniques that put your dog's wellbeing first.

1. Customised training: A behaviourist can help you with techniques such as desensitisation (gradually exposing your dog to other dogs at a distance where he still feels safe) and counter-conditioning (rewarding your dog for calm behaviour in the presence of other dogs).
2. Behaviour management: They can also advise you on management strategies, such as avoiding situations where your dog barks often, and using aids such as a calming vest or supplements that can reduce stress.

3.4. Positive reinforcement

Reward your dog for calm behaviour around other dogs. This can include giving him treats, praise, or offering him his favourite toy when he stays calm in front of other dogs. By rewarding your dog for good behaviour, you reinforce this behaviour and help him learn what is expected of him.

• Use treats or toys: If your dog stays calm while another dog is around, immediately reward him with something he likes. This helps him learn that other dogs are not a threat, but can actually mean something positive.

3.5. Avoid triggers and practice gradually

If your dog barks especially in certain situations, try to avoid those situations or build up gradually. Practice at a distance and slowly increase the level of difficulty while your dog remains successful.

1. Choose quiet walking routes: Choose walking routes where you will encounter fewer other dogs while you are training, and slowly work towards busier places as your dog progresses.
2. Gradual exposure: Start practising in situations where your dog feels comfortable and build up slowly. This will help prevent your dog from becoming overwhelmed and starting barking again.
    

4. When is professional help necessary?

If your dog's barking at other dogs persists or escalates into barking behaviour, it is strongly recommended that you seek professional help. A qualified dog behaviourist can guide you in addressing the problem correctly and ensure that the solution puts your dog's welfare first.

• Stay patient and consistent: Changing behaviour takes time and effort, but with patience and the right guidance, you can help your dog become calmer and happier in the presence of other dogs.
   

Conclusion
 

Barking at other dogs is a common problem that can have multiple causes, ranging from fear to enthusiasm. It is important to understand why your dog barks and work towards a solution that is both effective and respectful of your dog's well-being. Avoid punishing or reprimanding your dog and consider working with a clinical behaviourist to create a personalised plan. With patience, consistency, and a positive approach, you can help your dog become calmer and happier during encounters with other dogs.

Evie Van Hove is PgD Clinical Animal Behaviour, certified puppy coach, dog trainer and behaviour coach. She has been business manager of Pettherapy.be since 2021.