There’s probably no reason to worry if your dog doesn’t bark. Some dogs just don’t like or can’t bark, and that’s normal. However, if your dog suddenly stops barking, there may be some medical problems. Next, I’ll tell you the possible causes and solutions.
Contents
Why do some dogs Don’t bark?
Of course, a dog that doesn’t bark seems strange. But in fact, some breeds just can’t bark. These include:
- Shiba Inu
- Basenji
- Beagle
- French Bulldog
Check to see if your dog is one of the silent ones.
Other dogs just don’t like to bark, even though they know how to do it. Yes, that also happens, and most owners find it pleasant.
If the puppy is new to your home, he may not feel quite “himself” and may be embarrassed to bark because he doesn’t fully know what he’s allowed to do and what he’s not. For the first few days or even weeks, dogs are looking out for their owners to get a better understanding of them. When your Fido is fully accustomed to his new home and feels more relaxed, he may allow himself to bark.
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Medical Causes
If your dog used to bark but then became silent, there may be a medical cause.
- Laryngitis. Your dog may be hoarse from excessive barking, ingesting coarse food, or getting smoke or chemical irritants into his airways (by inhaling fumes from chemicals). If this is the case, it is temporary, and he will bark again when his vocal cords are restored. But laryngitis can also be caused by an allergic reaction accompanied by throat swelling. In such cases, medication is needed.
- Laryngeal paralysis. It can occur because of neck trauma, hormonal diseases such as hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease2. Laryngeal paralysis can also be congenital, although it does not show up immediately. Middle-aged and older dogs are at risk.
- Tumor. Tumors affecting the larynx are sometimes found in dogs.
Symptoms to Watch For:
- Coughing
- Noisy breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fever
If you notice any of these symptoms or if your dog’s barking changes and sounds strange, consult a veterinarian.
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Helping a Dog with Hoarseness or Lost Bark
If your dog has become hoarse and struggles to bark, here are some detailed steps to help:
- Give Your Dog Vocal Rest. Encourage calm, quiet activities to prevent further strain on the vocal cords. Avoid situations that may excite your dog into barking.
- Provide Fresh Water. Ensure your dog always has access to clean, fresh water. Staying hydrated helps soothe irritation and promotes healing of the throat.
- Use a Humidifier. If your home is dry, consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air, which can ease throat irritation.
- Switch to Soft Food. Replace hard kibble with wet or soft food to reduce throat discomfort during meals.
If your dog’s hoarseness persists or if you notice additional symptoms, schedule a visit to the vet. Your veterinarian might perform a physical exam or recommend further tests like X-rays or laryngoscopy.
A rescue dog doesn’t bark
If you picked up an adult dog from a shelter and he’s not barking, there’s a possibility that he’s been exposed to a shock collar. It can cause wheezing and burns if used uncontrollably.
Also, previous owners may have taught the dog not to bark and punished him for barking. Now it will take time for your furry friend to feel safe and understand that he is allowed to express his emotions. Of course, it takes a lot of effort and proper behavior.
Additionally, some owners subject their dogs to vocal cord surgery to get rid of the barking. Unfortunately, nothing can be fixed in such cases, but you can ask your veterinarian how to care for such a dog.
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FAQ
Is it normal for some dogs to never bark?
Yes, some dogs are naturally quiet due to their breed or personality. Breeds like the Basenji, for instance, are known for their lack of barking.
Should I be concerned if my dog suddenly stops barking?
A sudden change in barking behavior might indicate a medical issue like laryngitis or laryngeal paralysis. Consult a vet if you notice other symptoms like coughing, noisy breathing, or difficulty swallowing.
Why does my rescue dog not bark?
Rescue dogs may have been trained not to bark or could have experienced trauma or physical modifications, like vocal cord surgery. Patience and trust-building are key to helping them feel safe enough to vocalize.
Conclusions
Some dogs can’t or don’t like to bark. This is normal. But if your dog suddenly stops barking, there may be a serious medical problem behind it. In that case, it’s best to show your dog to the vet.
I wish you and your furry friend all the best and no problems with barking!
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