While barking is a natural form of communication for dogs, excessive barking is a behavioural problem which needs to be addressed for both the wellbeing of the dog and your neighbours.
Dogs are social animals and often bark due to loneliness, but can also bark excessively for a range of other reasons including:
- separation anxiety from owner
- boredom and frustration
- fear of people, objects, noise, weather conditions or other dogs
- feeling threatened towards themselves or their territory
- when they are sick or injured
Excessive barking nearly always occurs when the owner is absent. Neighbours communicating with each other constructively can help stop the problem from escalating.
Important information
Steps to report
My dog is barking
If you suspect your dog may be the problem, ask your neighbours questions like the time it occurs, or what may be triggering your dog to bark.
Once you determine the cause of your dog’s barking there are steps you can take to stop it.
For information and resources on how to manage excessive barking and what your responsibilities are if you receive a complaint, download our Barking Dogs - Information for Dog Owners guide.