What kind of energy does a dog have when it is barking?

The sound and intensity of the bark, as well as the dog's body position and movement, generally communicate the type of energy the dog has when he/she is barking.

For example, a dog that lunges forward, growls then barks, barks in a deep tone, barks loudly, and has his hackles up is most likely expressing assertive, dominant energy. This dog is most likely protecting something that he believes is his.


Some dogs can have nervous energy when they bark. Many small dogs do this type of bark. It tends to be high-pitched and quick. Generally, there is not much room between barks for a breath. This dog most likely wants something to happen. Other times this type of bark means that there is something happening and it feels overwhelming to the dog, so he is barking, hoping that he can gain control over the situation.


Other dogs can have excited, anxious energy. An example of this is of a dog whose tail wags his whole body, a dog that barks in a high-pitched tone accompanied with a slight whine, and a dog that attempts to jump on the person. This dog is most likely happy to see someone, and this dog wants this person to pay attention to him.

This answer was originally answered by Erin Goddard, with Erin's Dog Training, www.erinsdogtraining.com. Please click on "Best Dog Training" below to find out more.