Barking dogs
Summary
Dog owners: constant barking can be avoided!
Barking comes naturally to dogs, but the constant barking or whining of a dog can be very disturbing or annoying for your neighbours. In law, a barking dog can be a noise nuisance. You as the owner could be taken to court if you do nothing to stop the nuisance. Report a barking dog to us by following the instructions below. For other noise nuisance complaints, see our page on Noise pollution.
How to report a barking dog
- Contact us online or by e-mail, telephone or letter (our details are at the foot of this page);
- Information we will need from you:
- your full name;
- your full address including your postcode;
- your home telephone number and a number which we can contact you on during normal office hours if this is different;
- your email address (if applicable);
- how you would like us to respond to your enquiry, and;
- details of the problem.
Downloads
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Download the barking dogs factsheet #1: frequently asked questions [PDF, 194 Kb]
Download the barking dogs factsheet #2: advice for owners [PDF, 269 Kb]
Further information
Why dogs bark
Dogs are not by nature solitary animals, they need the security of a family group. Pet dogs regard their owners as a substitute family and can soon become distressed when left alone for long lengths of time.
Some of the reason why a dog may bark:
- Loneliness
- Boredom or frustration
- Attention seeking
- Defending his territory
- Medical problems
Training
Training is important so that your dog does not bark at anything that moves. A well-trained dog should be able to tell the visitors allowed into the house and the people who are intruders. Good training is essential at an early age this combined with affection and companionship should mean that your dog will not develop these bad habits. Always start as you mean to go on.
Some simple things to try
Some dogs just don't want you to go out, get your dog used to the idea using some of the following ideas:
- Leave at differing times during the day, that way he may not be so concerned each time you leave. Don't make a fuss of your dog when you leave him
- Try putting the dog on his own in another room for a few minutes, then gradually build up the time you leave your dog alone. Do not return to the dog until he is quiet for a period. When you return praise him.
- Some dogs bark because they want to join in with what's going on outside. If this is the problem, try leaving your dog where he cannot see outside.
- Some dogs will settle only if they can hear a human voice. Leave the radio or television on at a low volume may help.
- Try not to leave your dog for long periods, but if you have to, see if there is someone who can look in during that time. Maybe that person could take the dog for a walk or let him out into the garden, if you have one. A dog door is very useful to allow the dog access to the garden when you are not there.
Leaving your dog for long periods of time
If you do have to leave your dog for long periods:
- Feed and exercise him before you go out and leave him fresh water to drink.
- Make sure his bed or basket is comfortable and not in a draft or direct sunlight.
- Leave him a large marrow bone to chew and some of his favourite toys to play with
- Make sure that the room is not hot or too cold and that there is adequate ventilation.
- If you are not returning until after dark, either leave a light on or use a night light that comes on automatically when it gets dark.
Barking can be avoided
If you leave your dog outside all day:
- Try not to put his kennel near a neighbours fence where the dog maybe tempted to bark.
- Ensure the garden is completely secure, to prevent your dog from straying locally and causing problems to neighbours.
- Don't blame the dog and think that you will solve the problem by replacing him with another. All dogs bark and unless you change your lifestyle at the same time, the problem will still be there.
- Considering a second dog for company may help. But think about this carefully. Do you have the space and can you afford it? A second dog could result in more not less problems.
Nothing you have tried works?
Old dogs can be taught new tricks tricks! Contact the dog warden or your vet for advice.
The Dog Warden is always available to give advice and help. If necessary a visit can be made to advise you on the best methods available to you.
Related pages on this website
Contact us
| contact officer/team: | Environmental Support Officer |
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| web: | online enquiry form |
| email: | envserv@s-norfolk.gov.uk |
| telephone: | 01508 533830 |
| minicom/textphone: | 01508 533622 |
| address: | South Norfolk Council South Norfolk House Swan Lane Long Stratton Norwich NR15 2XE |
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If you need information in large print, audio cassette, braille, translation (written or verbal) or signed interpretation, let us know when you contact us.
