Understanding the reasons behind barking and how to calm it

Dogs bark to communicate. It’s completely natural, but when barking becomes excessive, it can be frustrating for owners and neighbours alike. The key is figuring out what your dog is trying to tell you and how to respond appropriately.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most common reasons for excessive barking, how to manage it with training and environment, and how a healthy lifestyle, including raw food from Poppy’s Picnic, can help reduce stress and overstimulation.

Why Dogs Bark

1. Alert barking

• Triggered by noises, people or animals outside

• Common in territorial breeds like German Shepherds or Terriers

• Solution: block the view or sound, teach a quiet cue, reward calmness

2. Attention-seeking

• Barking to get your focus, food, or play

• Reinforced when you respond

• Solution: ignore the barking, reward silence, use structured playtime

3. Boredom or loneliness

• Dogs left alone too long may bark to self-soothe

• Mental stimulation is as important as exercise

• Solution: increase enrichment, interactive toys, puzzle feeders

4. Anxiety or fear

• Barking when scared of noises, strangers or new environments

• May be part of separation anxiety

• Solution: create a safe space, use calming routines, speak to a behaviourist if needed

5. Excitement

• Common before walks, meals or greeting people

• Not aggressive, but can be intense

• Solution: stay calm, wait for quiet before rewarding, practise calm greetings

6. Medical issues or age-related barking

• Senior dogs may bark due to cognitive decline or discomfort

• Sudden barking changes warrant a vet check

Expert quote

“Barking is your dog’s voice. Instead of just telling them to stop, ask what they’re trying to say. Once you understand the cause, you can work on a solution that feels fair to both of you.”

– Tom Webb, Canine Behaviour Specialist

Feeding and Behaviour: What’s the Link?

Just like in people, poor nutrition can increase reactivity and anxiety in dogs. Processed foods filled with additives, sugars and preservatives can contribute to hyperactivity and digestive discomfort — both of which can increase barking.

Feeding a natural, balanced diet from Poppy’s Picnic helps support calm, stable behaviour by giving your dog everything they need and nothing they don’t.

Calm-friendly options include:

• Power Balls – Turkey Complete – Light and ideal for sensitive dogs

• Mighty Mince – Beef Complete – Rich in nutrients for healthy brain and mood

• Variety Boxes – Great for balanced feeding and consistent energy

Tips to Reduce Excessive Barking

• Be consistent with training

• Avoid shouting, which can sound like barking back

• Use positive reinforcement for quiet behaviour

• Give your dog a job to do, like a chew toy or scent game

• Increase exercise and mental stimulation

• Feed a clean, nutritious diet to support overall calm

When to Get Help

If barking continues despite training and changes at home, speak to your vet or a qualified behaviourist. Excessive barking is often a symptom, not the cause.

Final Thought

A barking dog is trying to tell you something. With patience, observation and a healthy daily routine, you can reduce the noise and strengthen the bond between you and your dog.

Support calm, balanced behaviour with real food from Poppy’s Picnic — raw meals that nourish body and mind.