Why do dogs bark at night?

Dogs are loved for their loyalty, playful behaviour, and protective instincts. Even dogs are considered as the best friend of the man. Dogs bark at around 80-10 dB but, humans or pet owners don’t like dog barking sounds. This dog barking sound is even higher at night. It is frustrating and disruptive not only to the dog owner but also to the neighbours. 

Understanding why dogs bark at night can help you identify the root cause of the behaviour and work towards a solution.
In this blog, we will discuss the possible reasons why dogs bark at night and what dog owners can do to stop their dogs barking at night.

Reasons why dogs bark at night:

1. Alerting their owners to threats.
Dogs are naturally territorial animals and can become more protective at night when their sense of sight is reduced.
This means that they may bark to alert their owners to potential intruders or other animals in the area.
Dog Barking sound is an indication of telling their owners that they are protecting them and their property.

2. Loneliness (Separation Anxiety)
Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety may become anxious and restless at night when their owners are not around. This can lead to barking and other disruptive behaviours.
They may be missing their owners, and barking is their way of calling out for them to return back. Separation anxiety can be a serious condition that requires professional help to address.

3. Responding to abnormal sounds or smells
Dogs have very sensitive hearing and smelling abilities. They may bark at night in response to noises they hear outside.
This could include sounds from other animals, car engines, sirens, or people talking.
They may be barking in response to perceived threats or simply because they are curious about what is happening outside.

4. Lack of exercise
Dogs with little physical activity during the day may become restless at night and bark out of boredom or frustration. 
A dog with pent-up energy will often find ways to release it, and barking can be one of those ways. Exercise is critical to a dog's health and well-being. Ensuring that your dog gets enough exercise during the day can help in reducing dog’s night time barking.

5. Medical conditions
In some cases, dogs may bark at night due to underlying medical conditions, such as pain or anxiety.
If a dog's barking behaviour suddenly changes, it is important to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any potential health problems.
A dog in pain or experiencing anxiety will often display other symptoms, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or changes in behaviour.

6. Fear or anxiety
Dogs can experience fear or anxiety in the dark and may bark as a way to express their discomfort or seek reassurance from their owners. 
They may be scared of something they see or hear or simply uncomfortable in the dark. 
Providing your dog with a safe and secure environment can help reduce nighttime anxiety and barking.

7. Hormonal changes
Female dogs in heat or dogs with hormonal imbalances may become more vocal at night, leading to barking. Hormonal changes can change a dog's behaviour, and barking can be one of those changes. 
In these cases, barking is a natural response to the changes the dog is experiencing.

There are various reasons to stop your dog from barking but, we have highlighted only the main reasons.

7 tips to stop your dog barking:

1. Increase daytime exercise of your dog:

Increasing your dog's exercise during the day can help reduce nighttime barking.

2. Address separation anxiety:

If your dog is experiencing it, consult a professional dog trainer or behaviourist to help it overcome its anxiety.

3. Keep your dog inside home:

If your dog is barking at night due to outside stimuli such as other animals, car engines, or people, keeping them inside in the home during the night may be helpful.

4. Keep their minds active:

Reduce boredom-related barking using Puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive playtime. Give your 45 minutes to 1 hour time playing with them and going with them on a walk.

5. Use rewards to train them for new behaviour:  

Rewarding your dog for not barking, providing clear cues and commands can help them understand what behaviour is expected of them.

6. Create a secure sleeping environment:

Providing your dog with a safe and secure sleeping environment can help reduce anxiety and fear-related barking.

7. Playing classical music near their beds:

Playing classical music not only works for babies but it also works for dogs too. It helps in reducing their cortisol levels and reduce their barking at night time.

A cosy bed in a quiet, dark room can be soothing and help your dog feel secure. You can also buy a Cuddly bag, caves, or donut beds for dogs to make them feel secure and comfy.

ABK Grooming provides a range of top-quality mattresses and blankets designed especially  for dogs to help them feel comfortable and reduce anxiety. 

Lastly, dog barking at night is a natural behaviour for dogs and can be triggered by various factors. 

Understanding the root cause of the behaviour is the first step in addressing it. 

By providing your dog with adequate exercise, a secure sleeping environment, addressing underlying anxieties, keeping them inside at night, providing mental stimulation, and using positive reinforcement training, can help reduce nighttime dog barking and improve the quality of life for both you and your furry friend.

Visit https://www.abkgrooming.com/  to shop anything and everything for your pet needs.

FAQs:

1. Why do dogs bark at night?

• Dog barking indicates alert from threats
• Lack of exercise
• They feel separated and become anxious
• They are ill and their dog come across some major medical changes
• Hormonal disbalance

2. How to stop a dog barking at night?

• Increase their daytime exercise
• Create a secure and comfortable sleeping environment for them
• Keep them inside the house
• Play silent classical music in nights
• Give them the toys to play with