Barking Dogs

It is normal for dogs to bark, however, when that barking turns to loud and continuous barking or frequent bursts of barking throughout the day and night, it can amount to a serious noise nuisance.

I'm disturbed by a barking dog, what should I do?

• first, try to discuss your concerns with the owner, they may not realise their dog is disturbing you
• if you feel unable to approach them directly try writing a polite letter, remember to keep a copy
• if relations deteriorate and the dog barking is just an additional problem you may decide the best approach is to consider mediation

Making a complaint to us

Report a noise complaint

When completing the form you will need to provide the following:

• details of where the noise is coming from, the house number and street address
• what time is the noise happening, eg early in the morning
• your name, address and contact telephone number

We will write to the address where the noise is happening and let them know we have had a complaint. We ask them to ring in to discuss this further with us. We will also ask you to fill in log sheets with the dates and the times of when the noise is occurring. This helps us decide if it is a statutory nuisance.

Environmental Health only take action where they are satisfied a statutory nuisance exists. 'Statutory nuisance' is defined by case law. The noise should be an ongoing and have a major impact on your life not merely causing annoyance.

Action we can take

If from your log sheets it shows there may be a statutory nuisance then we will look at taking further action. This could be putting noise recording equipment in or an officer visiting to witness the noise and assess if the noise constitutes a nuisance.

If a nuisance is confirmed we will serve a Noise Abatement Notice preventing further noise nuisance. Failure to comply with a Noise Abatement Notice is a criminal offence.

We will not reveal the source of the complaint at the initial stage of the investigation but if the case ended up in court then your identity may be revealed.

What you can do if your dog barks a lot

• organise regular exercise
• try to keep it calm
• do not leave your dog outside late at night or very early in the morning if it is prone to bark
• consider seeking professional advice from vet or a pet behaviour specialist
• do not leave your dog alone for long periods

Constant Barking Can Be Avoided

Barking

Barking comes naturally to dogs. Often the problem occurs when the dog owner is out of the house and may not be aware that barking is a problem until someone complains.

In law, a barking dog can be a noise nuisance and the owner can be taken to court if they do nothing to stop the nuisance. Here are some tips that may be useful. Why dogs bark

• loneliness
• boredom or frustration
• attention seeking
• defending his territory
• medical problems

Dogs are not by nature solitary animals and they need the security of a family group. Pet dogs regard their owners as their family and can become easily distressed when left alone.

The importance of training

A well trained dog should not bark at everything that moves. It should be able to tell between people allowed into the house and people who are intruders. Good training combined with affection and companionship should mean that your dog will not develop bad habits.

Things to try

Some dogs just don't want you to go out and leave them alone. Get your dog used to the idea that you are away for different periods of time at different times of the day, and don't make a point of fussing him when you leave him.

Try putting him on his own in another room, at first for a few minutes, then gradually build up the time you leave him. Do not return to your dog until he is quiet for a period. When you return, praise him.

Some dogs bark because they want to join in what's going on outside. If this is the case try leaving your dog so that he cannot see outside.

Dogs like to hear a human voice. Leaving a radio on at a low volume might help. Try not to leave your dog for long periods. If you have to, see if there is someone who can look in during that time. Maybe that person could take your dog for a walk or let him out into the garden if you have one.

• feed and exercise him before you go out and leave him some water
• make sure his bed or basket is comfortable and leave him his favourite toys
• check that his room is not too hot or cold and is well ventilated
• leave a light on if you are coming in after dark

If you keep your dog outside, think carefully where you put his kennel and where he can run. Avoid putting it too near your neighbour's fence or anywhere where your dog may be tempted to bark.

Getting a second dog for company may help, but you need to think about this carefully. Do you have the space, and can you afford another dog? It is also possible that another dog could result in more, not fewer problems.

What if nothing works

Old dogs can be taught new tricks. Your vet may also be able to help. Sometimes a dog will bark if he is ill - anxiety is often the cause of barking. You could also ask your vet to refer your dog to an animal behaviourist who can suggest ways to improve your dog's behaviour.

For further information please contact us:

Environmental Health Services (Domestic)

Telephone: 01784 446293

Fax: 01784 446437

Email: eh.domestic@spelthorne.gov.uk