A Quick Diagnostic

Before you respond, read three cues and the bark type usually names itself.

• Sound: short, sharp bursts point to an alert; a repeated, demanding tone points to a request; high and persistent points to anxiety.
• Target: barking at a window or door is aimed outward; barking straight at you is aimed inward.
• Body: a stiff, forward stance and pricked ears signal alert, while pacing, whining, or destruction signals fear.

When the cues disagree, trust the target and the body over the sound alone.