1. DECODING YOUR DOG’S
BARK
Ryan Croman

2. Dogs may not be able to
communicate like humans–but
like us–they can change their
tones and meaning easily.
Dogs have many barks that
convey different attitudes.
Unlike people, dog’s barks
are unique to their species
because each bark has a
universal meaning.

3. PLAYFUL BARK
You’ll hear this sound from
your dog when they wish to
initiate play. Often, this
bark is accompanied by a
rapid tail wag.
Sound: Stutter or “Ha-ruff”
Pitch: Mid-range

4. When dogs bark continuously
and rapidly, it is a call to action
to their owners or other dogs.
You’ll often hear this bark if
someone new comes into the
dog’s territory or the dog
suspects danger. They’re
telling you to be on alert.
Sound: Constant and repetitive
Pitch: Mid-range
CALL TO
ACTION
BARK

5. WARNING BARK
This bark tells you your canine
is suspicious or suspects there
may be a problem or intrusion.
In dog language, this means
that they either want their
owner or the alpha dog of the
pack to check out the issue.
Sound: Multiple barks with
pauses
Pitch: Mid-range

6. One of the most common and
joyful barks to hear, a dog
greets you with quick and short
barks to say hello when you
walk through the door.
Sound: One or two sharp, short
barks
Pitch: Mid-range
GREETING
BARK

7. QUESTIONING BARK
When a dog is curious or
questioning about an item
or event, you’ll hear a
startled or surprised sound.
When the sound is
repeated once or twice,
the dog is telling the owner
to come look or alert their
pack.
Sound: A sharp, single bark
Pitch: High to Mid-range

8. Although a very obvious sign
your dog is upset or suffering,
owners will hear a series of
yelps that indicate the dog is
experiencing pain or fear.
PAINED
BARK
Sound: Numerous yelps
Pitch: Mid-range

9. LONELY BARK
A lonely bark can be very sad
and disheartening to hear. This
type of bark can have elements
of many tones, but this cry is a
call for companionship.
Sound: Constant with medium or
long pauses
Pitch: Mid-range

10. Ever accidentally step on your
dog’s tail? Then you may be
familiar with this high-pitched
noise. A yelp is very short and
notifies you if your dog
experiences a sudden or
unexpected pain!
Sound: Short, one-note
Pitch: High-pitch
YELP BARK

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