Animal noise nuisance

Animal noise, such as barking dogs or cockerels, can be a real nuisance for neighbours, especially in the summer or when people are working from home.

Report animal noise nuisance

If you are affected by animal noise, try talking to the animal's owner first. They may not be aware that there is a problem.

If the problem continues, you can report it to us. We will only deal with animal noise that is a "statutory nuisance". This depends on the frequency and duration of the noise. We do not deal with noise-related complaints related to one-off incidents.

Report animal noise nuisance

Dog barking

Dog barking is a form of communication and is completely normal dog behaviour. However, if a dog's barking increases or becomes excessive, the owner will need to take steps to reduce its impact on the local community.

Follow these tips to reduce dog barking:

• Don’t let your dog bark or whine for long periods
• Keep your dog indoors if it barks when left alone or disturbed
• If your dog still barks when indoors, arrange to leave it with a neighbour or friends, or get someone to call in. Leave its favourite toy out or put the radio (with a talking radio station) on at a very low volume
• Move the kennel or put up a fence to keep your dog from being disturbed by people passing by
• Take your dog to training classes to change its behaviour.

More information

For more advice on dog barking, visit the RSPCA website.