If I had to guess, the dog was probably trying to protect/defend the parents, hence all the barking. I try not to whine, but I have an abusive mom who singled me out when I was a kid. No one in our house tried to help or defend me except the dog. Dog was a terrier, but would not be intimidated by someone 5 feet taller and 100+ pounds heavier than her. She would get between us and growl and lunge at my shitstain mother until she finally backed down and went back to her drinking. Then dog would then sit with me and make sure I was okay, hanging around until she knew the danger had passed.  Dogs are amazing. We do not deserve them. They are better people than people. And fuck this garbage transfat forever for hurting one.