Barking Dogs

Barking dog complaints are one of the most common complaints received by our rangers. Barking is a dog's natural way to communicate, and there are a number of reasons why dogs bark.

If you feel comfortable speaking to the dog owner, approach them to have a discussion. A short conversation may be enough to resolve the problem. They may not be aware there is a problem or they may find it difficult to believe that their dog is causing a nuisance when they are not home.

If you do not feel comfortable speaking to the dog owner, if the noise persists after the owner is made aware of the problem, or if the owner is uncooperative, report the matter to our Customer Service team by calling 4221 6111.

Find out more about the barking dogs complaint process

Nuisance Dogs

The Companion Animal Act 1998 states that a dog is a nuisance if it:

  • is habitually at large, or
  • makes a noise, by barking or otherwise, that persistently occurs or continues to such a degree or extent that it unreasonably interferes with the peace, comfort or convenience of any person in any other premises, or
  • repeatedly defecates on property (other than a public place) outside the property on which it is ordinarily kept, or
  • repeatedly runs at or chases any person, animal (other than vermin and, in relation to an animal, otherwise than in the course of droving, tending, working or protecting stock) or vehicle, or
  • endangers the health of any person or animal (other than vermin and, in relation to an animal, otherwise than in the course of droving, tending, working or protecting stock), or
  • repeatedly causes substantial damage to anything outside the property on which it is ordinarily kept.

 

If an authorised officer of a council is satisfied that a dog is a nuisance, the officer may issue a Nuisance Dog Order to the owner of the dog requiring the owner to prevent the behaviour that is alleged to constitute the nuisance.

Last updated : Fri 21 Jul 2023