Report a Barking Dog

BARKING DOGS

Complaints about noise are often one of the most difficult, and each case is handled differently depending on the situation. It may take several complaints and/or interactions with your neighbor to see a difference; persistence and patience will be the key to finding a good resolution. 

  • If possible and you feel comfortable, speak to the dog owner about the noise. Often people are unaware that there is a problem.
  • If other neighbors share your concerns, try talking to the dog owner as a group, or sending a letter outlining the neighborhood’s concerns.
  • Keep a written log, documenting the times and duration of the barking.

If you would like to report a barking dog creating a nuisance, you may contact us at 209-599-3146 or police dispatch after hours at 209-599-2102. Once staff receives a complaint, we will respond to the area to verify if the nuisance exists. Barking must be continuous for a minimum of ten minutes to meet enforcement standards. If the nuisance is verified, we will notify the pet owner and a citation may be issued at a later time. 

TIPS FOR DOG OWNERS TO PREVENT EXCESSIVE BARKING

If your dog’s barking has created neighborhood tension, it is a good idea to discuss the problem with your neighbors. It is perfectly normal and reasonable for dogs to bark from time to time, just as children make noise when they play outside. However, continual barking for long periods is a sign that your dog has a problem that will need to be addressed. The first thing you need to do is determine when and for how long your dog barks, and what is causing him to bark. You may need to do some detective work to obtain this information, especially if the barking occurs when you are not home. 

Your dog's barking could be rooted from: 

  • Social Isolation/Frustration/Attention Seeking
  • Territorial/Protective Behavior
  • Fears And Phobias
  • Separation Anxiety

RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Walk your dog daily
  • Teach your dog a few commands
  • Take an obedience class with your dog 
  • Provide interesting toys to keep your dog busy when you are not home (Kong-type toys filled with treats or busy-box toys). Rotating the toys makes them seem new and interesting
  • Keep your dog inside when you are unable to supervise him
  • Limit the dog’s access to views that might be causing him to bark when you are not home.