The phrase "barks at" is commonly used to describe the behavior of dogs, but there are plenty of other ways to convey the same meaning. Some synonyms for "barks at" might include "growls at," "snarls at," "yaps at," "howls at," or even "challenges." Each of these words can help to create a more vivid picture in the reader's mind of what exactly the dog is doing. Using different synonyms can also help to add variety and interest to your writing. So, next time you're writing about dogs, consider using a different word to describe their barking behavior!