The Reasons Dogs Bark & How to Alter Their Behaviour
May 14, 2025
Dogs bark – it’s one of the ways they communicate. But when barking becomes excessive, it can disrupt your household and cause tension with neighbours in Claygate. Understanding why your dog barks and how to manage it can lead to a calmer home and a happier pet.
If you´re having problems with your pup, let us know and we can offer some advice or refer you to a behaviour specialist in Surrey if necessary.
Is your dog a neighbourhood barker? How to alter this behaviour
Our team at Claygate Vets explain that barking is a natural behaviour, but persistent barking can indicate an underlying issue. Some common reasons include:
- Alert barking – Your dog may be warning you about passers-by or unusual sounds.
- Loneliness or separation anxiety – Dogs are social animals and may bark when left alone for long periods.
- Boredom – Without enough mental and physical stimulation, dogs may bark out of frustration.
- Territorial behaviour – Some dogs feel the need to guard their home and react loudly to anything unfamiliar.
- Attention-seeking
If your dog barks excessively, our team at Claygate Vets suggest trying these strategies:
- Identify the trigger – Observe when and why your dog barks to determine the root cause.
- Reduce exposure – If your dog barks at people passing by in Claygate, try using blinds, frosted window film, or redirecting their attention.
- Teach a ‘quiet’ command – Reward your dog when they stop barking on cue, using treats and praise.
- Provide more exercise and enrichment – A tired dog is a quieter dog! Increase walks around Surrey, playtime, and mental stimulation with puzzle toys.
- Avoid reinforcing barking – If your dog barks for attention, wait for a moment of quiet before rewarding them.
- Use calming products – Certain pheromone diffusers or supplements may help anxious dogs feel more at ease.
If barking persists despite your efforts, there may be an underlying medical or behavioural issue. Our team at Claygate Vets can assess your dog’s behaviour and give them a nose-to-tail exam before offering tailored advice or referring you to a behaviourist if needed.
