Barking Dogs

Barking dogs can become a nuisance and cause friction between neighbours, making life unpleasant for everyone.

We understand that the noise issue and how it is approached may have an impact on your neighbourhood relations. People are entitled to enjoy reasonable peace and quiet within their neighbourhood. Animal owners have a responsibility to ensure their animals do not cause a nuisance.

If barking is becoming an issue, start by speaking with your neighbour. Your neighbours may not be aware that it's a problem (i.e. dog only barks when they're at work etc.). This may resolve the issue without any further action.

Visit the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria http://www.disputes.vic.gov.au if your relationship with your neighbour is strained. The centre provides professional assistance, advice and mediation in relation to disputes, at no cost.

Should any of the above approaches be unsuccessful, the Council may be able to take action under the Domestic Animals Act 1994. However, be mindful that you may be required to appear as a witness before a Court/Tribunal. If you wish to make a report about a barking dog, please contact us on (03) 5871 9222.

For information about the possible reasons behind the barking and how to solve the problem - refer to Animal Welfare Victoria.