Are You the Pack Leader? How to Prevent Excessive Barking
As a community manager, excessive dog barking is one of the most common complaints I receive. Excessive barking is not good for dogs, and it can be disruptive and stressful for both owners and neighbors. If your dog is “that dog” then consider trying these tips to help restore peace to your neighborhood.
First Things First: Why is Your Dog Barking?
As an owner, you need to understand why your dog is barking. Dogs don’t bark just to bark. Barking is a form of communication, so it’s crucial to determine what your dog is trying to say. The most common causes of barking include protection and warning, fear, play, attention, loneliness, and separation anxiety.
How to Get Your Dog to Stop Barking
Excessive dog barking can be frustrating. The following can help ease the issue.
- Exercise
Just like humans, dogs need daily exercise and physical and mental stimulation. Make sure your dog is walked every day not only for exercise but also because the exposure to new sights and smells will engage your dog’s brain.
- Socialization
Whether it’s socialization with family members, strangers, or other pets, your dog craves attention and new experiences. Make sure you socialize and make friends with other dogs and people in your neighborhood. If your dog knows neighbors, they are less likely to bark at them or feel the need to “protect” you from the people next door.
- Training
Each dog is different and a little research or help from a professional trainer can go a long way to create a peaceful experience with your pet. Dogs are great students, and lots of positive reinforcement and consistent training will ensure you, your dog, and your neighbors remain happy.
How to Get Your Neighbor’s Dog to Stop Barking
Everyone has the right to enjoy their property, and if you’re constantly interrupted by barking dogs, you should address the issue. If it’s stressful for you, then it’s probably stressful for the owner, too. I recommend having a civil, face-to-face conversation with your neighbor. If you can’t come to an agreement, or the issue doesn’t get resolved, contact your community manager. Most communities have policies in place to prevent excessive noise, and your HOA would be happy to send a friendly letter to help educate a homeowner and remind them about the rules they have agreed to follow.
Keeping the Peace & More Backyard Tips
Stopping excessive barking in your neighborhood will go a long way to help restore the peace - allowing everyone to enjoy their backyards. However, noisy pets are not the only problem facing today's communities. For more tips on making the most of your outdoor spaces, check out my post "Living in Your Neighbor’s Backyard? Here’s How to Keep the Peace."