Barking Mad
Author: Two Cents
Barking Mad
Two Cents
Dear Two Cents,
My neighbor’s dog barks all day long. I work from home and my neighbor leaves their dog outside to bark all day. I have left unsigned friendly notes on their door informing them of the constant barking, but nothing has changed. I’m at my wit's end. Any suggestions on how to end this nuisance without causing a continued conflict?
Sincerely, Barking Mad
Dear Barking Mad,
First, we’d recommend having a face-to-face conversation with your neighbors. Be honest about the barking in a non-judgmental manner - state your case and consider bringing dog treats or toys to break the ice.
If your properties touch, you could consider getting a “no bark” device for the edge of your property that borders with these neighbors. (Many are ultrasonic and only activate with barking so it’s not going continuously.)
Give them a week to make any adjustments, and then consider escalating your concerns through the city, county, or HOA. These are county/city-specific, so research the requirements for reporting. Fighting with the neighbors over a disturbing the peace charge doesn’t make for peaceful neighborly relations, so we’d recommend this be an absolute last resort.
Sincerely, Two Cents
Dear Two Cents,
My neighbor’s dog barks all day long. I work from home and my neighbor leaves their dog outside to bark all day. I have left unsigned friendly notes on their door informing them of the constant barking, but nothing has changed. I’m at my wit's end. Any suggestions on how to end this nuisance without causing a continued conflict?
Sincerely, Barking Mad
Dear Barking Mad,
First, we’d recommend having a face-to-face conversation with your neighbors. Be honest about the barking in a non-judgmental manner - state your case and consider bringing dog treats or toys to break the ice.
If your properties touch, you could consider getting a “no bark” device for the edge of your property that borders with these neighbors. (Many are ultrasonic and only activate with barking so it’s not going continuously.)
Give them a week to make any adjustments, and then consider escalating your concerns through the city, county, or HOA. These are county/city-specific, so research the requirements for reporting. Fighting with the neighbors over a disturbing the peace charge doesn’t make for peaceful neighborly relations, so we’d recommend this be an absolute last resort.
Sincerely, Two Cents
