Barking Dogs
Coffs Harbour City Council Rangers handle more than 2500 dog complaints each year and the majority are to do with barking dogs.
Dogs bark for a number of reasons (see why does your dog bark below). But regardless of the cause the reality is that a barking dog can be a real nuisance in a neighbourhood.
The following guidelines are designed to help alleviate the problems associated with barking dogs.
First - DISCUSS |
If you have not already done so you should discuss the problem with the owner of the problem dog. He or she may not be aware that you have a problem with their barking dog. (Many dog owners are not offended by the barking of their own dog.) In most cases owners will want to do the right thing and will co-operate. If this is not successful and the owner is unwilling to co-operate, you should contact Council who can make initial approaches on your behalf. |
Second - MEDIATE |
Contact the Community Justice Centre in Newcastle on 1800 990 777. This is a free service, which specialises in solving problems by mediation with no obligations imposed unless agreed to by both parties. |
Last - COMPLAIN TO COUNCIL |
If the first two steps are unsuccessful a report should be obtained from the Community Justice Centre and lodged with Council who will determine the validity of the complaint and decide whether legal action is necessary. This of course should only be a last resort. Council may take action under the Companion Animals Act and issue Dog Nuisance Orders on the owner or other action under the Protection Of The Environment Operations Act. It should be noted that the burden of proof in these matters is that of the criminal standard which is beyond reasonable doubt. This in real terms means that before a court, Council would be required to prove beyond any reasonable doubt that the dog barking was a nuisance. Council will require diaries to be kept by at least two individuals (preferably not in the same household) outlining the times and duration of any barking which they consider a nuisance. An example diary can be downloaded here. Council will also require a guarantee that complainants would be willing to attend court as Council's witnesses should the matter go that far. |
Troubleshooting
Why does my dog bark?
Dogs that bark continually can be annoying for both you and your neighbours. If your dog is barking it may be because it:
- is bored
- needs exercise
- wants attention
- may suffer from separation anxiety
- lacks shelter, water, food
- may need veterinary attention
The most common problem these days is that people go off to work and leave their dogs to their own devices all day and the only way they know how to complain about being left alone is to bark. Can you imagine sitting in your backyard on your own for 8 hours a day with nothing to do?
What can I do about my barking dog?
We're not suggesting you should stay home and entertain the dog all day every day, however, there are a number of simple things you can do to stop your dog barking:
- Walk your dog for at least 15 minutes each day;
- Leave toys out for your dog to play with when you're not there;
- Make sure your dog has plenty of water, food and shelter from both the sun and rain - and check them regularly;
- Play with your dog when you are home; and
- Make sure your dog is regularly wormed and receives veterinary attention when necessary.
If you are already doing all of the above and your dog is still barking you may need to seek advice from an animal behaviour specialist. There are a number of mechanical devices which can be used to train your dog, these can be discussed with your local vet or the following links may also help you find some answers.
Bark Busters
Barking Solutions
Anti Barking Collars
