Advice on Dog Barking

Barking comes naturally to dogs, but constant barking or whining can disturb neighbours. Often the problem only occurs when the dog's owner is out of the house and they don't realise it's an issue until someone complains.

Nuisance due to Barking Dogs

Under the law, a barking dog can be a noise nuisance. Owners can be taken to court if they do not prevent it. Dog barking nuisance is a civil matter and cannot be dealt with by the Animal Welfare Unit or Dublin City Council.

Section 25 of the Control of Dogs Act 1986 explains that it is up to the District Court to decide whether any case of dog barking constitutes a nuisance.

Those who wish to make a complaint to the District Court about a barking dog can download the below form. For further advice on how to serve this notice, you'll need to contact your local District Court office.

Why Do Dogs Bark?

There are many reasons why your dog may bark, including:

• Loneliness.
• Boredom or frustration.
• Attention seeking.
• Territory defending.
• Medical problems.

Dogs are not solitary animals by nature. They need the security of a family group and pet dogs regard their owners as a substitute family. This means they can soon become distressed when left alone.

Training Tips to Prevent Barking

Training plays an important role in ensuring that your dog does not just bark at anything that moves. A well trained dog should be able to tell the difference between people who are allowed into the house and people who are intruders.

Good training combined with affection and companionship should mean that your dog doesn't develop bad habits. Start young and start as you mean to go on.

However, some dogs just don't want you to go out. It is important to get your dog used to the idea that you will be away for different periods of time at different times of the day. That way they might not be so concerned every time you leave.

When you leave, don't make a fuss of your dog. Instead, try putting them 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 for a period. When you return, you can then make a fuss and give your dog praise.

Some dogs will bark because they want to join in on what's going on outside. If this is the problem, try leaving your dog where they cannot see outside.

Other dogs will only settle down if they can hear a human voice. Leaving a radio on at low volume might help, but make sure it is not too loud. You don't want to receive complaints about that!

If you keep your dog outside, think carefully about where you put their kennel and where they can run. Try not to put it near your neighbour's fence or where your dog will be tempted to bark.

Leaving a Dog Alone for Long Periods

While your dog should get used to being alone, try not to leave them for long periods of time. If you have to leave your dog for long periods, be sure to:

• Feed and exercise them before you go and leave out some fresh water.
• See if there is someone who can look in on your dog and take them for a walk or let them out into the garden.
• Make sure their bed or basket is comfortable and leave out their favourite toys.
• Check that the room isn't too hot or cold and that there is adequate ventilation.
• If you aren't coming back until after dark, be sure to leave a light on.

Seek Out Help

If these tips aren't working, don't blame the dog and think that you will solve everything by replacing them with another. This probably isn't the case.

Getting a second dog for company could help, but think about this carefully. Do you have the space and can you afford a second dog? Another dog could potentially result in more problems.

Old dogs can be taught new tricks. Ask your local dog warden for more suggestions. You should also consider bringing your dog to the vet. Sometimes a dog will bark because they are ill. Anxiety is often the cause. Your vet may be able to help or refer your dog to an animal behaviourist who can expertly improve your dog's behaviour.

Contact the Animal Welfare Unit

The Animal Welfare Unit is always open to opportunities to educate animal owners. If you need advice about your pet or would like one of our wardens to speak at your school or community event, contact us below.