Barking Dogs
Barking is a dog’s natural way communicating and a normal behaviour. However, if the dog continually or persistently barks then this constitutes a nuisance and may require City involvement.
A dogs owner may not realise that their dog's bark is causing a nuisance as it often only occurs when the dog is left unattended.
Causes
Some common causes of nuisance barking:
- Isolation, loneliness or boredom
- Anxiety
- Fence line distraction
- Deliberate or unintentional provocation by people or other dogs
- Insufficient mental and physical exercise
- Ill health, pain or discomfort
- Change of environment
- Breeding or temperament
- Inappropriate confinement.
Prevention
- Ensure all your dog’s needs are being met
- Consult with your vet to ensure your dog is in good health
- Allow your dog free access to inside the house via a secured dog door or similar, or leave your dog inside during your absence
- Ensure both mental and physical exercise needs are met prior to leaving your dog
- Seek professional advice from a fear free trainer or Veterinary Behaviourist to ascertain the reason for the barking and find a humane and effective solution.
What should I do if I'm affected by a barking dog?
Contact the owner of the dog in the first instance, either directly or with a polite letter. If your neighbour has a dog that constantly barks, we encourage you to leave a Dog Barking Neighbour Letter at their property in the first instance.
If the situation persists, you can report the barking dog to Ranger Services.
When you report a barking dog you will be requested to assist in collecting the necessary evidence by keeping a Dog Barking Diary'. The diary needs to be as accurate as possible as it may be used as evidence. You may be called upon to give evidence in court, however legal proceedings will only be taken as a last resort when all other possible remedies to abate the nuisance have failed.
