Excessive barking can seriously impact neighbourhood harmony. Here’s how to address barking issues, whether you’re experiencing the problem or receiving complaints about your dog.

What Constitutes a Barking Nuisance?

Under the Dog Control Act 2000, a nuisance exists when barking:

  • Persistently occurs or continues
  • Unreasonably interferes with peace, comfort, or convenience
  • Affects people in premises or public places

Common scenarios:

  • Continuous noise affecting surrounding properties
  • Prolonged barking throughout day or night
  • Repeated barking that disturbs neighbours

The Two-Stage Complaint Process

Stage 1: Informal Complaint

What happens:

  • Council notifies dog owner of potential barking issue
  • Owner provided with resources for managing excessive barking
  • Two-week period allowed for voluntary management

Why this works:

  • Many owners are unaware their dog is causing problems (especially when absent)
  • Most owners successfully address issues once they know about them
  • Maintains neighbourhood relationships where possible
Stage 2: Formal Complaint

When it’s needed:

  • Nuisance continues beyond two weeks
  • Complainant wants Council to formally investigate

Legal requirements:

  • Must submit formal notice under Section 47 of Dog Control Act 2000
  • Fee required (fully refundable unless complaint frivolous or vexatious)
  • Council cannot formally investigate without this process

Filing a Formal Complaint

What You Need to Provide

Essential documentation:

  • Completed Dog Complaint Form (PDF)
  • Appropriate lodgement fee
  • Details of two witnesses willing to support your claims
  • Written record of barking incidents (minimum 7 days)
Documentation Requirements

Your barking log must include:

  • Dates and times of barking
  • Duration of each incident
  • Impact on your peace and comfort
  • Maintained over at least 7 consecutive days

Use the barking log sheet included with the complaint form – print additional pages as needed.

Be prepared to give evidence before a magistrate if the matter cannot be otherwise resolved.

Council’s Response: Abatement Notices

If an authorised officer confirms a nuisance exists, they may serve an abatement notice on the dog owner stating:

  • Nature of the nuisance
  • Action required to stop the nuisance
  • Timeframe for compliance

Non-compliance consequences:

  • Infringement notice may be issued
  • Further legal action possible

Resources for Dog Owners

Immediate steps:

  • Monitor your dog’s behaviour, especially when you’re away
  • Identify triggers (boredom, anxiety, territorial behaviour)
  • Consult the RSPCA Knowledgebase for excessive barking solutions

Common solutions:

  • Increase exercise and mental stimulation
  • Address separation anxiety
  • Remove visual triggers (fencing, positioning)
  • Consider professional dog training
  • Consult your veterinarian for behavioural advice

Medical considerations:

  • Pain or discomfort can cause excessive barking
  • Cognitive decline in older dogs
  • Hearing issues may affect response to training

Prevention Tips

For dog owners:

  • Provide adequate exercise and mental stimulation
  • Don’t leave dogs outside for extended periods
  • Address barking triggers proactively
  • Be responsive to neighbour concerns

For neighbours:

  • Approach dog owners directly first (if comfortable)
  • Document issues before complaining
  • Be specific about times and impacts
  • Consider mediation services if available

Forms and Information

Also in Dog Management