Barking Dogs

Barking is simply one way dogs communicate and can mean anything from playfulness to danger. Some dogs bark because they are:

  • Chained to a fixed point and don’t have enough room to move around
  • Being provoked deliberately or unintentionally by people or other roaming animals
  • Not getting enough exercise
  • Not properly trained
  • Lonely, sick, hungry, or generally neglected

Chronic or excessive barking is a sign that something is wrong and can be a nuisance to others in the community. Sometimes stopping a dog from barking can be as simple as taking care of their basic needs.

Owners of dogs have responsibilities under the Companion Animals Act 1998 and the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997, to ensure their dogs do not exhibit nuisance behaviour or emit offensive noise.

CURING THE BARKING HABIT

If you feel your dog is well cared for but continues to bark excessively there are a number of things you can try:

  • Confine your dog in the backyard, away from interference and/or provocation by passing traffic
  • Restrict your pet’s vision through the fence or gate
  • Consider training. Talk to a specialist, reputable trainer or your local dog training club
  • Insulate the kennel against noise and weather
  • Keep your dog inside or confined to the garage or garden shed at night.

MAKING A COMPLAINT ABOUT A NUISANCE (BARKING) DOG

View Council's Barking Dog Procedure