Constant barking or whining from a dog can be disturbing and annoying for your neighbours.
The noise from a barking dog can be classed as a statutory nuisance, which means we can serve a noise abatement notice. This requires the owner of the dog to exercise control over its barking.
Why dogs bark
Dogs bark for various reasons, and understanding these can help in addressing the behaviour. The following outlines some common triggers for barking and some solutions to try:
- Some dogs just don't want you to go out. Get your dog used to the idea that you are away for different periods of time at different times of the day. That way they might not be so concerned each time you leave. Don't make a fuss of your dog when you leave.
- Try putting your dog on their own in another room, at first for a few minutes, then gradually build up the time you leave your dog alone. Do not return to your dog until they are quiet. When you return, praise them.
- Some dogs will bark because they want to join in with what is going on outside. Try leaving your dog somewhere in the house where they cannot see outside, or shut the curtains or blinds.
- Try and restrict your dog to one room in the house. The back of the house is usually best so they cannot see people walking past. The less space they have to run around in the house, usually the less noise they will make.
- Exercise your dog before you leave them. This way they should be contented, happy and should sleep.
- Leave them a bone to chew, or a strong hollow dog toy that you can put food in the middle, this should keep them occupied for hours.
- Leave a radio or television on but not too loud that it may disturb your neighbours.
- If you are not returning to your house before it gets dark, make sure you leave a light on so your dog is not in darkness or you could try a timer switch.
- If you have to leave your dog all day, why not ask a neighbour, friend or relative to let your dog out in the garden or take them for a walk.
If all of the ideas above have not worked and your dog is still barking, you could try using an anti-bark collar or obedience/ behavioural training. Anti-bark collars can be useful for dogs that are left outside for a period of time. These are available from pet shops or veterinary surgeries, who can also provide advice on their use.