Barking Dogs

Barking Complaints

Barking Complaints are one of the more frequent complaints we receive. While a barking dog can be a deterrent to would-be intruders; it can be frustrating to live near a dog that is unhappy and sharing it with the neighborhood. We always recommend making an effort to courteously advise your neighbor of your concerns as they may be unaware of their pet's behavior.

A Neighbor’s Dog 

If a barking dog is creating a problem in your neighborhood, contact Animal Control and provide the address of the offending dog. An officer will contact the household and encourage them to solve the problem to avoid further action.

If the dog continues to bark, please contact Animal Control again. At that time, a witness statement and two week bark log are required for submittal for further action. Animal Control sends witness statements and logs to the City Attorney's Office for consideration of issuance of a citation.

Your Dog 

If you have a dog that barks regularly, investigate and determine why your dog is barking. The following are some reasons for barking and some possible solutions:

• Excess energy - Dogs often bark in order to get rid of excess energy. Going for walks, playing ball or visiting off-leash parks are some ways to help your dog work off that pent-up energy. When you are gone, leave some chew toys at home for your dog.
• Noises - New or sudden noises can incite dogs to bark. While you’re away, turn on a radio when your pet is in an enclosed space. This way, your dog won’t hear every noise and will be less likely to react.
• Outside distractions - Your dog may see be able to see people and dogs passing by outside your house. These distractions may threaten or frighten your dog. Obscuring your dog's view of the outside can keep your dog more at ease. Block windows with curtains, shades, or large blankets. You may also want to install a wooden fence or add slats to a chain-link fence.

Communication

We always recommend making an effort to courteously advise your neighbor of your concerns as they may be unaware of their pet's behavior.

Contact your neighbors and tell them that you are working on the dog-barking problem. Solicit their help to keep track of when and why your dog is barking. Encourage them to contact you when there is a problem. For more ideas on how to solve barking dog problems, contact Animal Control.