Barking dogs

Council understands barking dogs can be a noise nuisance and may impact your neighbourhood.

Steps can be taken to resolve these issues effectively and responsibly. Barking issues can often be easily resolved before Council rangers need to intervene.

Download Council's Barking Dogs Information Pack for more information and advice on how to manage the situation.

How to deal with a barking dog

Step 1.Discuss

Contact the dog owner first. You may decide to talk personally with the owner, telephone or write to the owner. The dog owner may not be aware their dog is barking, particularly if it only occurs during the owner’s absence. In most cases owners will want to do the right thing and cooperate. A barking dog courtesy letter is included in the Barking Dogs Information Pack and can be forwarded on to your neighbour without having to contact Council.

Step 2.Wait

If the owner agrees to do something about the barking, allow time for the owner to take action to address the barking problem. Dogs cannot be trained overnight and it may take some time to achieve the desired outcome. Maintain consistent and effective communication with your neighbour whilst they work toward training their dog and resolving their barking. Offer constructive feedback and continue to communicate on a regular basis. If required, complete the barking dog diary included in the Barking Dogs Information Pack to assist in monitoring the situation.

Step 3.Contact Council

In some circumstances, when communicating with your neighbour with regard to the barking dog situation has not been effective, you may need to contact Council to discuss further action. Ensure information provided is accurate and include details of time, date and duration of the barking as well as evidence of attempted communication to resolve the situation. Include a copy of the completed barking dog diary.