When dogs bark, are they using words to communicate?

Dogs’ barks say a lot about how they’re feeling.

By: Clive Wynne, Arizona State University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: July 5, 2026

Words: 747

Last Updated: 2 weeks, 3 days ago


Body Text Preview

By Clive Wynne, Arizona State University

Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com.

When dogs bark, do they have words? – Sarah W., age 9, Clinton, New York

Does your dog bark a lot? Or is he one of those quiet pooches who barks only when things get really exciting? Most dogs bark …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

Register for Free Log in