What to Do About a Barking Dog in Your Neighbourhood
Understand why dogs bark
Dogs bark for many reasons - loneliness, boredom, lack of exercise, or even illness. In many cases, the dog’s owner may not be aware that their pet is causing a disturbance.
Talk to the dog's owner
Start with a friendly conversation. Let them know what you’re experiencing. Many owners are open to resolving the issue once they know it’s a problem.
Not comfortable speaking face-to-face?
Download our Courtesy Neighbour Letter – simply print and place it in their letterbox:
Template - Letter to Neighbour (Barking) 14.5 KB Download
Keep a Noise Log
If the barking continues, begin tracking the noise using a Noise Monitoring Sheet over a minimum of 14 days. It is important to record:
- Date
- Time
- Duration of barking
This log helps the Council assess the issue objectively.
Download the Barking Monitoring Diary below and once completed, please submit it via email to council@wagga.nsw.gov.au or alternatively, you can submit the monitoring sheet in person to council’s customer service.
Barking Monitoring Diary 37.2 KB Download
Assess your options
If direct communication doesn’t work, visit the LawAccess NSW website for legal guidance and to explore your options.
Contact your local Council
Still having trouble?
Please contact Wagga Wagga City Council on (02) 6926 9100 (between 8.30am - 5pm Monday - Friday) to lodge a customer request.
The Council may require:
- Multiple complaints from different neighbours
- A completed noise log
- Site visits to assess the situation
The Council can investigate and may issue a Nuisance Order under the Companion Animals Act 1998.
Legal action (Last resort)
If you are still unsatisfied and problem is continuing, you can apply for a Noise Abatement Order through your local court under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997.
Please note: The Council do not seize dogs for barking and cannot order that a dog be rehomed or destroyed.
Concerned About Animal Welfare?
If you believe the dog is barking due to neglect or mistreatment, contact the RSPCA at 1300 278 3589 or visit www.rspca.org.au