A large number of the complaints we receive about noisy animals relates to barking dogs.
It is normal for dogs to bark, however when that barking turns too 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?
- Often an owner may be unaware their dog is causing a problem, so before contacting Community Safety try to discuss the problem with them.
- Next, consider writing a polite letter, explaining how the dog's barking affects you. You could consider using our template letters (see Related Documents) as guidance. Remember to keep a copy.
- Consider mediation
with the dog owner. Try to reach an amiable solution.
If the above approach fails, start getting evidence.
- You can print our nuisance record (see Related Documents Diary Form) sheet and begin logging the instances of barking.
- Consider collecting evidence. Using a digital camera or mobile phone you can record incidents of dog barking.
A barking dog complaint will be treated in the same way as any other noise complaint and could lead to us serving a Statutory Noise Abatement Notice on the owner of the dog.
My dog barks a lot, what can I do?
- The more tired a dog is the less it will bark – organise regular exercise.
- Do not let your dog bark or whine for long periods or leave it alone for long periods.
- Try not to excite your dog too much when playing as this will lead to barking – 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 barking.
- Consider seeking professional advice from a vet or pet behaviour specialist.
- See DEFRA leaflet – Is your dog barking too much?
Related Documents
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Initial Letter Template
A letter template for informing a neighbour of noise disturbance.
Last updated: 27/10/2011, 10:36am (24 KB) -
Follow Up Letter Template
Letter for following up initial contact with neighbour with regard to a noise disturbance.
Last updated: 27/10/2011, 10:36am (27 KB) -
Nuisance Record
Diary form for logging the occurances of barking
Last updated: 27/10/2011, 10:36am (119 KB) -
Noise Policy Leaflet
Information about the way that Torbay Council in which will approach noise problems.
Last updated: 28/03/2011, 11:57am (31 KB)
Related Websites
- Dangerous Dogs Act 1991
- Defra - Barking Dogs
- Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996
- Foredowne Kennels
- Pets Bureau
- PDSA - pets in need of vets
- The Kennel Club
- Pet Log
Related Tasks
- Apply - Dog Warden Service
- Consult - Animal Welfare
- Feedback - Comment on this page
- Feedback - General
Contact Environmental Protection
- Tel: 01803 208025
- Email: environmental.protection@torbay.gov.uk
- Fax: 01803 208854
