Dogs are an important part of our community life, but dogs that bark excessively can quickly become a source of irritation and annoyance for neighbours and others.
Maroondah City Council receives numerous complaints regarding nuisance noise from barking dogs. More often than not the problem can be resolved if you approach the owner of the dog and explain the effects of the dog barking.
Sometimes, the dog’s owner may not realise that the barking is causing an annoyance to other people:
- The dog may only bark excessively when the owner is not home.
- The owner may not hear the barking from some areas in their house.
- The owner may be a very sound sleeper and has not woken when the dog barks.
A booklet is available from Council that explains what can be done about a barking dog, and how to proceed if necessary with a formal complaint. There are also helpful hints for the owner of a barking dog. Download it from the link below, or visit one of our service centres.
Citronella collars can be used as a learning tool to help control the barking of a dog. It should be recognised that the function of a citronella collar is to teach dogs not to bark unnecessarily This method may not be successful for all dogs. Instructions for use should be carefully read to ensure maximum efficiency from the device. Citronella is a natural spray, and is not toxic to animals.
Citronella collars may be purchased from pet stores or over the internet.
Barking Dogs booklet
What you and Maroondah City Council can do
Barking Dogs - what you and Maroondah City Council can do (PDF, 650Kb)
Note: Please contact Council to formally lodge a request before you complete and return a Barking Dog Diary.
