Why Is My Dog Barking, Whining or Chewing Excessively?

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Every bark, whine, or chewed-up shoe tells a story. Your dog isn’t being “naughty” - they’re trying to communicate needs, stress, or emotions that haven’t yet found an outlet.
As a caring dog parent, understanding why your dog behaves this way is the first step toward peace, balance, and a happier household.

In this complete guide, we’ll explore the science of dog communication, share vet-approved behaviour strategies, and introduce safe, humane tools that help you and your dog build a calmer life together.

Why Dogs Bark: Decoding the Language of Sound

Barking is as natural to dogs as speaking is to humans. But when it becomes excessive, it signals an imbalance between energy, emotion, and environment.

The psychology behind barking

Dogs bark to:

· Alert or protect - warning you of a perceived threat or stranger.
· Seek attention - especially if barking results in eye contact or a treat.
· Express boredom or frustration - a release valve when under-stimulated.
· Signal fear or anxiety - barking to create distance from something scary.
· React to noise triggers like doorbells, fireworks, or car engines.
· Communicate pain or confusion - often in older dogs or those in discomfort.

Barking isn’t the problem, the cause behind it is.

Behaviourist insight

Dr. Lisa Radosta, a board-certified veterinary behaviourist, notes that “excessive barking is often a symptom of unmet emotional or mental needs - not disobedience.”
Dogs bark because it works: it relieves tension or gets your attention. The goal isn’t to suppress barking, but to redirect it toward calm, rewarded behaviour.

What you can do

· Track triggers: note what happens before barking starts.
· Add stimulation: longer walks, sniffing games, or puzzle toys.
· Teach “quiet” using positive reinforcement: reward moments of silence.
· Block visual triggers: cover windows, use calming sounds or music.
· Avoid yelling: dogs may think you’re barking along!
· See a vet: if the change is sudden or intense - pain, hearing loss, or cognitive decline can play a role.

Understanding Whining: The Emotional Signal

Whining is a dog’s way of saying, “Something doesn’t feel right.” It’s softer than barking but just as meaningful.

Common causes of whining

· Separation anxiety: distress when left alone or anticipating your departure.
· Attention-seeking: learned behaviour when whining brings a response.
· Pain or discomfort: whining may accompany injury, arthritis, or illness.
· Boredom: under-stimulated dogs may vocalize to pass the time.
· Excitement: anticipation of walks, meals, or greetings.

When to worry

If your dog whines while resting, limps, or avoids contact, schedule a vet visit.
Behaviourists often note that pain-based whining can look similar to attention-seeking - so rule out physical causes first.

How to respond effectively

· Stay calm; don’t scold.
· Wait for a pause before giving attention. Reward quiet moments.
· Offer structured enrichment (sniff walks, training sessions, slow feeders).
· Practice short absences to build tolerance and independence.
· Provide a safe, scent-familiar resting spot or crate.

Whining often decreases when dogs feel secure, understood, and occupied.

Why Dogs Chew: From Instinct to Stress Relief

Chewing is one of the most natural behaviours for dogs - it strengthens teeth, relieves tension, and soothes anxiety.
But when it targets your shoes, couch, or remote control, something is off balance.

Root causes of destructive chewing

· Teething: puppies relieve gum pain through pressure.
· Boredom: adult dogs chew when they lack stimulation.
· Anxiety or loneliness: chewing becomes self-comforting.
· Hunger or poor diet: nutritional gaps may cause oral fixation.
· Lack of training: dogs haven’t learned what’s “theirs” to chew.

Solutions

· Provide designated chew toys that satisfy the instinct safely.
· Rotate toys weekly to maintain novelty.
· Offer long-lasting chews or puzzle feeders during your absences.
· Reinforce calm chewing - praise when your dog chooses their toy.
· Increase exercise and play before leaving your dog alone.

Remember, chewing is emotional regulation for dogs. It’s better to channel it than fight it.

The Three Pillars of Behaviour Balance

· Medical Wellness: Pain, illness, or sensory loss can masquerade as misbehaviour.
· Emotional Stability: Anxiety, fear, or boredom drive most excessive behaviours.
· Environmental Enrichment: A structured, stimulating routine builds calm and confidence.

When these three align, excessive barking, whining, and chewing naturally decline.

Action Plan for Behaviour Harmony

· Observe & document: track triggers, time, frequency, and emotional cues.
· Consult your vet: rule out pain or health issues early.
· Modify surroundings: block triggers, create calming zones, add safe chew options.
· Increase enrichment: combine walks, play, sniffing, and puzzles daily.
· Train alternatives: teach “quiet,” “settle,” “drop it,” and “go to mat.”
· Be consistent: calm repetition builds lasting habits.
· Seek professional help: chronic or anxiety-based behaviours benefit from a certified trainer or behaviourist.

Recommended Tools for Calmer, Happier Dogs

These expert-approved tools complement your training and enrich your dog’s day-to-day life.
They’re not shortcuts - they’re supportive aids that make behaviour work easier, kinder, and more effective.

1. Benebone Wishbone Durable Dog Chew Toy

Made with real flavouring and a paw-friendly grip, this chew toy keeps strong chewers busy for hours.
Behaviourists love it because chewing releases calming endorphins, reducing stress and preventing destructive habits.

Best for: dogs that chew furniture or shoes
Why it works: engages natural chewing instinct and satisfies stress relief
Pro tip: supervise first use; rotate toys weekly for novelty.

Pros

Lasts weeks to months even with aggressive chewers
Curved wishbone allows dogs to easily grip and chew from multiple angles
Doesn't leave residue or create cleanup issues
Helps satisfy natural chewing instincts safely
More cost-effective than constantly replacing destroyed toys
Real bacon flavor

Cons

Made in facility that processes nuts - not safe for households with nut allergies
Can potentially damage teeth if dog chews too aggressively or has dental issues
Need to watch for wear and replace when chunks start breaking off
Still requires hair disposal

2. FOXMM Interactive Dog Treat Puzzle Toy

For dogs who get anxious or whiny when bored, this puzzle toy provides mental workouts that tire the brain, not just the body.
Each solved slot releases a small treat, teaching patience and focus.

Best for: anxious or easily bored dogs
Why it works: stimulates problem-solving and encourages calm persistence
Pro tip: fill with kibble for slow feeding and training reward sessions.

Pros

Excellent for keeping dogs busy and reducing boredom, anxiety, and destructive behaviors
Works great as a slow feeder for fast-eating dogs, promoting healthy eating habits
Made from food-safe polypropylene that withstands enthusiastic play and chewing attempts
Dishwasher safe and easily washable
Built-in squeaker in the center attracts attention
Sliding compartments in different directions provide varying challenge levels

Cons

Smart dogs often figure it out quickly
Dogs use their noses, creating slobber that requires frequent cleaning between uses
Can tip or slide around during play
Paw nails can get stuck in slots, and rubber feet can come off and be eaten

3. YUYQA Dog Ultrasonic Anti Barking

Ideal for alert barkers or territorial dogs, this device gently interrupts unwanted barking without pain or shock.
Pair it with verbal cues like “quiet” and reward silence to teach your dog what’s expected.

Best for: reactive barking near windows or fences
Why it works: provides immediate feedback while maintaining humane training
Pro tip: position near bark triggers and reward calm behaviour immediately after.

Pros

Highly effective, dogs stop barking within days or even first use
No pain or harm, uses ultrasonic frequencies instead of shock collars
6 different modes including dual ultrasonic frequencies, beep, and LED flashlight
Works up to 23 feet away, great for yard use and walks
50% smaller than standard devices, fits easily in pocket

Cons

Some older dogs or those with hearing issues may not respond
Best results need proper training technique and consistency
Works best when aimed directly at the dog in quiet environments
Only recommended for dogs 6 months to 8 years old without neurological disorders

4. Outward Hound by Nina Ottosson Lick N’ Flip 3-in-1 Dog Lick Mat

This lick-mat turns feeding into relaxation. Licking is naturally self-soothing - it helps dogs unwind and reduces anxiety, especially before bedtime or crate rest.

Best for: anxious eaters or dogs who eat too quickly
Why it works: licking stimulates dopamine release and calms the nervous system
Pro tip: Rotate puzzle toys weekly to maintain your dog's interest and challenge level

Pros

Multiple difficulty levels available
Dishwasher-safe materials
Reduces destructive behavior through mental stimulation
Slows down fast eaters when used with treats
Durable construction stands up to daily use

Cons

Requires supervision to prevent piece swallowing
Some dogs lose interest quickly
More expensive than basic toys
Can be noisy on hard floors

5. Kseroo Indestructible Tough Dog Toy

Some dogs simply need tougher gear. Heavy-duty rubber or nylon chewers satisfy strong jaws while protecting your belongings.

Best for: power chewers and large breeds
Why it works: redirects intense chewing energy safely and effectively
Pro tip: inspect toys regularly and replace when worn.

Pros

Made from solid nylon that withstands aggressive chewing from large breeds for weeks to months
No small parts to break off and swallow
Excellent for dogs around 8 months old or those needing to grind their teeth
Specially designed to help high-energy dogs burn off excess energy in just 10 minutes
Dogs can taste the real beef flavoring

Cons

Can potentially damage teeth if dog chews too aggressively
Some customers report tiny nylon pieces flaking off during extended chewing
Hard chewing on floors creates noise
Too big and heavy for medium or smaller breeds
Should monitor for wear and replace when pieces start breaking off

6. MODUS Anti-Barking Device

Portable, humane, and rechargeable. A quick ultrasonic sound redirects attention, allowing you to reinforce calm, quiet focus.

Best for: excitable barkers
Why it works: immediate, gentle interruption of unwanted barking
Pro tip: follow with praise or treats - reward the quiet, not the noise.

Pros

Works up to 75 feet with 3 adjustable intensity levels
AI recognition filters your dog's bark from other noises to prevent false triggers
15 days of use on a single 2-3 hour charge
Uses ultrasonic sounds only dogs can hear
No need for collars or manual activation
Can be mounted on walls, trees, or fence posts

Cons

Not suitable for puppies under 6 months or dogs over 8 years
Won't work on dogs with hearing problems or aggressive dogs
Hard chewing on floors creates noise
Can take up to 2 weeks for dogs to associate the sound with the behavior
Works best indoors with only one dog

The Philosophy: Patience, Empathy, and Connection

Behaviour change isn’t about obedience; it’s about understanding.
Your dog’s barking, whining, or chewing isn’t rebellion - it’s communication.
With time, enrichment, structure, and compassion, even the most challenging behaviours can transform into harmony.

We believe:

· Every dog deserves to be heard before corrected.
· Small, consistent actions build lasting trust.
· The right mix of love and learning turns frustration into connection.

Explore more behaviour guides, quizzes, and curated tools.
Together, let’s make every bark, whine, and chew a step closer to understanding.