Barking dogs

It’s normal and natural for a dog to bark. However, constant barking or whining isn't normal dog behaviour. It can be annoying and upsetting for you and your neighbours. If you’re out a lot or you’re just used to the noise you might not realise just how bad it is.

If your neighbour tells you that the noise your dog is making is upsetting them you could try talking things over with them. Stay calm, and try and see it from their point of view: maybe they work shifts, or have got a baby.

You may not realise how much your dog barks when you’re not at home. You should try and find out when the dog is barking and for how long.

Your neighbour could make a complaint to the council if your dog's barking is disturbing them or causing a nuisance. If they do receive a complaint it will be investigated by the council.

We can help you to resolve the problem by discussing the issue with you and the person making the complaint. If this doesn't work and the Council agrees that the noise amounts to a statutory nuisance, it will serve you with a notice requiring the noise to be reduced to an acceptable level.

If you fail to comply with an abatement notice, you could face prosecution and, if convicted, a fine of up to £5000.

If the problem does reach this stage then you should seek professional advice to help stop or reduce the barking.