Different dogs bark in different situations

Some dogs are very small in size, but when they see a dog bigger than themselves, they still refuse to back down and keep barking, sometimes even showing a provocative attitude. These dogs always bark at other dogs—is it because they are fierce and aggressive, wanting to fight? Actually, not necessarily. Different dogs bark for different reasons.

1. Fierce and aggressive type

Some breeds have temperaments that aren’t very good and are naturally more aggressive. Once they feel that the other dog has invaded their territory or threatened their possessions, they will bark at those dogs. If the other dog resists, a fierce fight may be unavoidable. This situation usually occurs with relatively fierce dogs such as Tibetan Mastiffs and Pit Bulls. Owners of these types of dogs should take good care to prevent their dog from injuring others.

2. Testing type

Some dogs bark as a way of testing. They observe the reaction of the other dog upon hearing the bark and then decide their next course of action. If the other dog shows some signs of timidity, they might take advantage and chase it away.

3. Bluffing type

There is also a kind of dog that is actually very timid but uses barking to scare the opponent in the hope that the other dog will retreat. These dogs usually do not have much confidence in actually scaring the other dog away but still adopt this method. This situation is often seen in Chihuahuas. Although Chihuahuas are very small, they still bark at dogs much bigger than themselves—not because their bark is very powerful, but to intimidate the other dog.

A dog’s barking is not simply a declaration of war. In the past, it was also a way to convey information. Studies have shown that other dogs seem to be able to determine the size of the target from the bark, thus deciding whether to help or retreat. Therefore, barking besides being a form of intimidation, is also a form of communication to help companions better understand the message.