Understanding Why Dogs Bark.
Why Dogs Bark and the Different Types of Barking
Ultrasonic anti-bark devices can stop barking when used correctly. Barking is one of many ways dogs communicate, and each type of bark serves a different purpose. Sometimes we want our dogs to bark — for example, to alert us to people or animals approaching — but barking can also be excessive or happen at the wrong time.
Because barking can have different causes and motivations, it’s important to identify why your dog is barking before deciding how to address the problem.
Training Basics
Rewarding barking at the right time — such as alert barking when someone approaches the property — can strengthen that behaviour. However, it’s just as important to teach your dog to be quiet on cue to reduce unwanted barking.
One effective approach is to train an alternative behaviour. For example, teach your dog to “sit” or “lie down” and reward them with treats or attention. This replaces attention-seeking barking with a calm action.
Dogs also have different bark tones depending on their emotional state. A “danger” bark will sound different from a “play” bark, so learning to recognise these differences will help you keep the barking you want and reduce the barking you don’t.
Common Types of Barking
Territorial barking and defensive barking
Triggered by the presence of someone or something near the home, this barking is meant to protect the territory. Without training, a dog’s idea of “territory” can expand far beyond the home — even to streets they’ve walked with you.
Neighbourhood dogs may join in (“socially facilitated barking”), creating a chain reaction as the perceived threat moves through the area. A classic example is the sound of barking following a postie down the street.
Tip: Reduce triggers by blocking your dog’s view of passing people or animals, and limit access to front doors, windows, and yards.
Alarm barking and alert barking
Similar to territorial barking but triggered by specific sights and sounds, such as a sudden noise. This type of barking can be managed with a combination of ultrasonic anti-bark devices and consistent training.
Meet and greet barking
When meeting new people or dogs, some dogs bark and jump, which can overwhelm visitors.
Attention seeking barking and frustration induced barking
This happens when dogs are confined, restrained, or simply want attention.
Compulsive Barking
This is repetitive, excessive barking — often accompanied by pacing or running in patterns, such as back and forth along a fence.
Separation barking and anxiety barking
Occurs when the owner is absent. Often there are other signs of distress such as pacing, destructive chewing, inappropriate elimination, or depression.
Using Anti-Bark Devices as a Training Aid
Ultrasonic devices emit a high-frequency sound to emphasise verbal commands or interrupt unwanted behaviour. The sound is harmless yet effective, and when combined with training, can shorten behaviour modification time from months to weeks.
You can use devices to reinforce commands like stop, sit, heel, and down, and to deter:
- Barking
- Biting
- Jumping on people
- Chasing cars or posties
- Chewing and digging
- Scratching and soiling
- Entering restricted areas or climbing on furniture
There are many options: handheld units, anti-bark collars (electric or citronella), and larger mounted devices. The most humane and cost-effective choice is usually a handheld ultrasonic device.
Unboxing the HUSH U20
Spotlight: The HUSH U20
The HUSH U20 emit a loud, high-pitched sound (115 dBA) that dogs can hear but humans cannot. A 1–2 second activation startles the barking dog, encouraging it to stop.
They can also be used to repel aggressive dogs when walking, jogging, or cycling. The lightweight design and metal clip make them easy to carry.
Gift Idea: Perfect for friends who hike, bushwalk, or visit areas with wild dogs or dingoes.
📖 Read More: Wild Dogs and Dingoes
Video of the Ultrasonic Device stopping a neighbours dog barking
Do ultrasonic stop bark dog devices work?
Every dog and situation are different and so your results may vary and there are some cases where it won't work
Results can vary depending on:
- Age: Puppies under 9 months may not hear the sound; older dogs may be deaf.
- Distance: HUSH U20 works up to 7 m; HUSH U122 up to 15 m.
- Training: Highly trained guard dogs may ignore it.
- Obstructions: A clear line of sight is needed.
- Device Condition: Batteries must be charged; faulty units won’t work.
⚠ Safety Note: The sound (25 kHz) is inaudible to humans but can still damage hearing if you attempt to listen to it directly.
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