You might think dogs around the world go “woof” or “bark” — but in Japanese, they say “Wan Wan!”
It’s the most common sound to represent a dog’s bark, especially when children or cartoons are involved.
Whether you’re at a park, in a picture book, or watching anime, “Wan Wan” is Japan’s go-to dog sound!
What is “Wan Wan”?
“Wan Wan” is a Japanese onomatopoeia that represents the barking sound of a dog.
It mimics a cheerful, high-pitched bark — especially the kind you’d hear from a small or energetic dog.
It’s often used in picture books, children’s songs, anime, and everyday conversation.
Pronunciation
wan-wan
(Like “one-one” in English, but faster and more playful)
Categories
Animals / Sound
Examples in Daily Life
Example 1: A dog barking at the gate
A small dog ran up to the fence and started barking —
“Wan wan! Wan wan!”
Example 2: A child imitating a dog
At the park, a little girl pointed at a dog and said,
“Look, Mama! Wan wan!”
How Do You Say It？
It’s short, cheerful, and easy to say — Wan wan!
Try saying it aloud just like a playful little dog!
Let’s Compare!
Did you know dogs bark differently around the world?
Let’s compare how dogs sound in different languages!
English: Woof woof!
Spanish: Guau guau!
Why do dog sounds differ by language?
You might wonder — dogs bark the same way around the world, so why do different languages spell it differently?
That’s because onomatopoeia is shaped by the sounds native speakers hear — and how their language expresses sounds.
Each language uses its own rhythm, vowels, and consonants to recreate what a dog’s bark sounds like to them.
For example:
- In English, “woof woof” uses strong ‘w’ and ‘f’ sounds.
- In Spanish, “guau guau” reflects a rolling, softer bark.
- In Japanese, “wan wan” feels bright, high-pitched, and friendly — perfect for how dogs are portrayed in Japanese media!
It’s not that the dogs bark differently — it’s that we hear and describe it differently depending on our language and culture.
Isn’t that fascinating?
What Does “Wan Wan” Look Like?
It’s often written in round, bouncy letters in children’s books and cartoons.
Even the shape of the word feels soft and happy — just like a friendly puppy’s bark.
Watch & Feel the Wan Wan World!
Dogs Barking at the Park
Watch these playful pups bark away with full “wan wan” energy!
From fluffy Shiba Inus to excited little Pomeranians — it’s all wan wan!
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