Have you noticed that your dog doesn't bark like other dogs in the neighborhood? For some dog parents, having a dog that doesn't bark might be something they can only dream about. But for others, it might be cause for concern.
Dogs bark for a lot of different reasons. In addition to warning intruders to stay away or alerting you to a potential threat, a dog might also bark because he's frustrated or bored, or because he simply wants your attention. Dogs also sometimes bark to express emotions such as fear, anger or excitement.
There are almost as many reasons why some dogs don't bark as there are reasons for barking. Here are some of the most common possibilities why your dog doesn't bark.
Breed Disposition
Some breeds, such as the Basenji, possess quiet temperaments that aren't geared toward a lot of barking. This might not mean that they never bark, or that they don't express themselves in other ways, such as howling or whining. But in a general sense, these dogs simply don't bark much.
Personality
While breed temperament can play a role, dogs are individuals, each with a unique set of personality traits. Some dogs are simply too laid back or friendly to bother with barking, while others may not like the sound of their own barking.
Honeymoon Phase
If your quiet dog is newly adopted, it could be that he's too shy to bark. Often, dogs adopted from a shelter or rescue tend to be on their best behavior during the first days or even weeks following adoption, says Cuteness. If this is the case, your dog may begin to bark more as he becomes more comfortable in his new surroundings.
Vocal Stress or Health Issues
If you have a dog that has suddenly stopped barking or appears to be trying to bark without making any noise, it could be that too much barking has strained his voice. Recent surgery is another reason your dog might be more silent than normal, or he simply might not be feeling well. However, if your pooch suddenly goes silent, it could also be indicative of a health issue. You should contact your veterinarian to discuss possible causes.
Tasty Tips
Training or Debarking
If you're dealing with a shelter dog or one whose history is unknown, it's possible that his previous owners had him debarked, which is a surgical procedure that involves trimming the vocal chords to reduce the volume. Debarked dogs are still capable of barking, they simply can't do so loudly. This is a procedure that we would not normally recommend — training should be your best course of action for teaching a dog not to bark. Another possibility is that your dog was previously trained not to bark, or that he was forced to wear a bark collar that suppressed his barking and broke him of the habit. Sadly, it could also be that your pup suffered abuse that made him fearful of barking. In such cases, with love and time, your dog might eventually get over his fear and go back to barking normally.
Ultimately, you know your dog best, and you're in the best position to decide whether being able to say "my dog doesn't bark" is bragging rights or a cause for alarm. If you're concerned about your dog's silence, talk to your vet to rule out medical or psychological issues. But if it turns out your dog is simply the strong, silent type, relax and count your blessings!
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat. In a delicious large bite size for large breed dogs.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Small Bites with Chicken Meal & Barley Dog Food
18% lower calories vs. Science Diet Adult
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Small & Mini Chicken Meal & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Large Breed Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition. Delicious food in a large bite size.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Pollock Meal & Insect Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Salmon, Whole Oats, and Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini dry dog food is tailored nutrition for Small & Mini dogs while being gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Vegetable & Rice Stew Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Savory Stew with Chicken & Zucchini Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Stew with Beef & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the superior nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free Chicken & Potato Recipe dog food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free dry dog food is gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Beef & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Beef & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small Bites
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat. In a delicious small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Small & Mini Chicken, Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up, specially designed for small & mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Related articles
Dental Disease in Dogs: Symptoms & Treatment
Discover what dental disease means for dogs, and how you can be treating oral health issues by simply feeding your dog food with proper nutrition.
Dog Scratch Reflex: Why Dogs Kick Their Legs During Belly Rubs
Wondering why your dog's leg kicks when you scratch his belly? Learn about dog scratch reflexes, why they love belly rubs and how it's useful for your vet.
Helpful Tips for a Teething Puppy
Teething is a part of a puppy's life. Use these 3 tips to help your puppy through this difficult time and protect your household from teething incidents.
Understanding & Caring For Your Miniature-Breed Dog
Learn how the needs of small breed dogs are different than other dogs, and get helpful tips on how you can provide for their needs.
Balanced Dog Foods & When to Change Them
Nutrition is one of the most important components of keeping your dog healthy, so choosing a well-balanced dog food full of nutrients is key. Learn more.
When Does My Puppy Become an Adult Dog?
Learn how to recognize the signs that your puppy is becoming an adult dog, as well as how you can help meet their developmental & nutritional needs.
Odd Behaviors of Dogs: Running in Their Sleep and More
Learn all about your dog's odd sleep behaviors, including snoring, twitching, running in his sleep, and what they all mean.
What Is the Cost of Owning a Dog?
You've made the emotional decision to get a dog, but have you crunched the numbers? The cost of owning a dog requires upfront funds to get started.
Four Ways to Keep Your Adult Dog's Weight Ideal & Healthy
Obesity can cause serious canine health issues, but following these 4 steps to achieve and maintain a healthy weight for your adult dog can help.
Pets, Marijuana & THC: What You Need To Know
If your dog ate marijuana, don't panic. Learn how weed and THC can affect dogs, what the signs are, and when you should be concerned.
How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog?
You know that bathing your dog is important, but how often should you do it? Learn the right dog bath frequency, based on their breed, lifestyle & health.
5 Popular Small & Toy Dog Breeds in America
U.S. Dog Breed Spotlight: 5 Popular Small & Toy Dogs
Can Puppies Eat Adult Dog Food?
Can puppies eat adult dog food? Learn all about puppy nutrition and how — and when — to transition your pup to adult dog food.
Why Do Sirens Make a Dog Howl?
Dogs howling at sirens is common behavior, but why do they do it? Also, learn if sirens actually hurt dogs' ears and which dog breeds like to howl most.
Choosing the Right Food For Your Small Dog's Life Stages
Hill's Science Diet Small & Toy Breed dog foods are designed to meet the nutritional needs for your small dog at every life stage. Learn more here.
Can Dogs Be Ticklish? (& Where Are Their Spots?)
Learn whether your dog is ticklish, how to recognize if they are & which spots are most sensitive, as well as how to tell if they don't like being tickled.
Anemia in Dogs: Signs, Treatment, Prevention & More
Discover the clinical symptoms of anemia in dogs, why the condition occurs, how its diagnosed & treated, and how you can help with prevention in your dog.
Typical Health Problems in Small Breed Dogs
If you've recently adopted a small dog, learn some health issues that commonly affect smaller breeds, from tracheal breathing issues to knee displacement.
Weight Loss Goals & How Your Dog Can Help
Learn some great ways to involve your dog in your weight loss goals, including exercise & activities you can both do and healthy snacks for both of you.
Helping Your Puppy Behave While Eating
Learn how to help your puppy learn good behaviors by starting with proper table manners. Follow these helpful feeding tips.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.