A variety of theories exist in effort to explain the origin of and reasons for barking in dogs. Whether dogs bark because they are genetically ‘stuck’ in adolescence, or because it has been accidentally or purposefully selected for through breeding, excessive barking can be a nuisance, and may even earn you a fine for violation of county noise ordinances. A common issue brought to dog trainers and psychologists, barking is a complex behavior that while not yet entirely understood, can usually be managed.
Science has proven that wolves are ancestors of domesticated dogs. Although the two species are genetically similar and have the same body shape, their vocal manners are very different. Wolves rarely bark, and when they do, the barks are short and isolated. Wolf pups are more vocal and will sometimes bark repetitively, but never bark for hours upon hours like some domesticated dogs. As humans took over the breeding of dogs, youthful characteristics like smaller stature, playfulness, and friendliness were desired traits, so animals possessing these qualities were bred to make puppies of the same quality. We now have dogs ranging from the size of a Chihuahua to that of a Great Dane. Each breed however, seems to have somehow inherited a desire to be vocal. Did our human ancestors try to create dogs that would bark more than their wolf ancestors? Or is this changed behavior an accident?
What we do understand about communication in the animal kingdom is that in nearly every species, vocalization has a direct purpose. In songbirds the male chirping attracts females and wards off other nearby males. In dogs, studies have shown that barks can actually be categorized by purpose and that each dog has his very own distinct bark. Disturbance barks to warn of intruders or perceived danger are lower in frequency, sharp, and intense. Play or isolation barks are modulated and higher in frequency. It may be that barking was useful to humans in the early stages of dog domestication to warn of dangerous animals or the approach of other humans. This would mean however, that only the most vocal dogs were bred and rebred, leading to our vocal companions of today.
Another idea on barking is that because humans bred dogs to take on wolf puppy-like characteristics, the increased vocalization in dogs is due to their bodies and minds being sort of trapped in a state of adolescence. Supporters of this theory suggest that genetically, dogs develop to a point where they do not exhibit every trait of an adult wolf. While the dog itself is fully developed, the species has been genetically altered through breeding to remain a teenager when compared to an adult wolf. While this allows dogs to avoid the hunting and predatory behavior of wolves, it has led to puppy-like vocalization habits.
As complicated as each explanation sounds, training a dog to stop barking can be even more involved. With a dog that frequently barks, you must figure out what triggers the behavior, and focus on eliminating the reaction to these triggers. Some owners that restrict their dog’s freedom will actually cause the dog to bark more often because he feels isolated. Some dog owners inadvertently encourage vocal behavior by positive rewards such as touching, soothing, or giving attention.
One quicker fix to barking is to rattle a metal soup can filled with ten pennies each time your dog begins to bark. The noise from the can will often startle the dog into silence, where he can be praised and rewarded. This cure adds a loud racket to the already noisy situation, so if you use this method, be sure you can handle the sounds. Spray bottles, citronella collars, and ultrasonic collars can also be used to treat barking.
Despite what you may think, dogs do not bark out of spite or just to hear their own voices. Often, dogs who are rewarded for barking as puppies will grow to be more vocal, so be aware of what behaviors you are teaching your dog at a young age. Research is underway to help understand the origin of barking in dogs, but there is still much to be learned. In the meantime, if your dog’s barking is harassing you and your neighbors, consult a professional to help restore peace to your home.