Bark (sound)
Other animals that make this noise include, but are not limited to, wolves,[1] coyotes, foxes, seals, frogs, owls.
[3] Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and Hampshire College have defined a bark as a short, abrupt vocalization that is relatively loud and high-pitched, changes in frequency, and often repeats rapidly in succession.
[8] Domesticated breeds show vast physical differences from their wild counterparts, an evolution that suggests neoteny, or the retention of juvenile characteristics in adults.
From a young age, humans may be among a dog's primary social contacts, an environment that presents different stimuli than would be found by wolves in the wild.
Barking can be used as a way to attract attention, and any positive response exhibited by the owners reinforces the behaviour.
Using sonographic methods, Feddersen-Petersen identified several distinct types of barks, then analysed them for meanings, functions, and emotions.
[12] There is some evidence that humans can determine the suspected emotions of dogs while listening to barks emitted during specific situations.
Humans scored the emotions of dogs performing these barks very similarly and in ways that made sense according to the context.
[16] Excessive barking indicates an underlying problem, a trigger or the dog lacking exercise or mental stimulation.
Reasons for excessive barking can be, among others, pain, fear, boredom, frustration, separation anxiety or territorial behaviour (warning about potential threats).
However, most Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals agree[citation needed] that in a last resort an electric collar is better than euthanasia if it comes to an ultimatum, for a stubborn dog that will not stop any other way.
It is considered a last resort by some owners claiming that it is better than euthanasia, seizure, or legal problems if the matter has proven incapable of being corrected any other way.
The bark-howling starts with several barks and then fades into a rising and ebbing howl and is probably, similarly to coughing, used to warn the puppies and members of the pack.
[20] According to current knowledge, it is impossible to get Australian dingoes to bark more often by making them associate with other domestic dogs.
[27] Various bird species produce vocalizations that include the canonical features of barking, especially when avoiding predators.
