Why do dogs ba.rk and bi.te some people but not others? There’s always a reason!
Why Dogs Bark and Bite Some People but Not Others
Dogs may bark or bite some people but not others due to various reasons involving new experiences, human traits, protective instincts, perception of character, and past trauma.
Dogs often bark when encountering new stimuli, such as unfamiliar scents or behaviors, which they may view as potential threats. “Dogs bark because they are experiencing new things.” Certain physical traits can also trigger barking, like wearing hats or sunglasses, having facial hair, being tall and muscular, using deep, loud voices, or making direct eye contact. Additionally, dogs are protective of their owners and can act aggressively to defend them. Research suggests dogs can sense a person’s character, assessing whether someone is trustworthy through keen observation. Past negative experiences can influence a dog’s reactions, leading them to bark at individuals resembling those associated with bad memories.
To prevent dog bites, treat dogs kindly from a young age and expose them to various environments. Proper training and positive reinforcement help minimize barking and aggressive behavior toward strangers.
