Why Your Dog Is Barking More in Apartments And What It’s Trying To Telling You

Dogs have sensitive ears, they can hear lower and higher hertz than we can do. Apartments are full of sounds, people walking, talking in hallways, outside noise, and much more. These might seem like background noise to the human ears, but can turn into consistent disturbances for your pets. Barking in such situations come from a place which is meaning to tell you that “someone is there outside.”
Territorial instincts are always on a high alert when it comes to dogs. In apartments the territory extends out of the main door. Every noise from outside the door is heard as a threat. They are on their paws at all times. Repetitive barking comes from situations of security at times.Dogs need space to run, sprawl, and play. Out of boredom and lack of activity, dogs might be wanting to be let out. Barking is an activity that releases the built up energy. Some dogs also bark to entertain themselves, surprising isn’t it? A bored dog is an expressive dog.
Being away from your loved ones induces separation anxiety. When your pet is left alone in the apartment it may induce this feeling in them too. Being confined to four walls and hearing noises from outside, makes them vulnerable. A bark in such a situation is a distress signal which helps them in coping up with anxiety until you are back.
Dogs tend to talk to each other, play with each other in the form of barking. Knowing that their friends are in nearby apartments, they might just start barking to communicate with them. Social awareness and pack mentality kicks in at such moments.


Many owners and people find barking a nuisance. Dogs do not bark for no reason, there is always something behind every bark of theirs.

Here is a list of what barks might mean for when you are confused as to what the reason is:

• Strangers: Barking to make you alert of someone nearby.
• Boredom: Lack of physical activity also makes them bark.
• Separation: Loud barks might mean “Don’t leave me alone.”
• Protection: Anyone unknown too close, they might growl for their protection.
• Attention: They might bark and paw you while asking for attention.

Every bark sends a message and we need to understand that through the situation they are in. It is a call for help, a call for attention which we always need to attend.

Burn off excessive energy by playing stimulating games, taking them for walks. Tired dogs don’t have enough energy to bark and silence prevails.
If a dog in an apartment stays calm during triggers, reward them! Train them in a way which maintains the silence and also keeps them on their best behaviour.
A safe space is of utmost importance for a pet. Prepare a safe space for them with their bed, pillows and toys. Sense of security reduces anxiety which results in less barking.
Make your pets familiar with sounds that trigger their barking. This increases the tolerance level and reduces the reaction. Reward the quietness with some treats to make your pets feel better.
Some dogs get separation anxiety when their owners leave the house. Keep activities ready which you dog can apply it’s mind on and reduce any extra energy that comes from feeling lonely.

Bark of a dog is not misbehaviour, it is a way of communicating. Every bark has a meaning behind it which is our responsibility to understand. By positive reinforcement and daily engagement, pet owners do good for the well being of their companions.
A bark is way of saying “I need you” and it is our duty to be there for them.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why does my dog bark more in an apartment than in a house?
   Because apartments have more noises, people, and triggers that your dog feels the need to respond to.
2. Can separation anxiety cause excessive barking in apartments?
   Yes, dogs left alone in apartments often bark out of stress and loneliness.
3. How can I stop my dog from barking too much indoors?
   By giving enough exercise, training with rewards, and creating a calm, safe space.
4. Is my dog’s barking a sign of bad behavior?
   No, barking is communication, it usually signals boredom, anxiety, or territorial instincts.