Barking Dog? County Offers Tips for Problem Barking

From Washoe County Animal Services

What can I do about a barking dog?

This is a common question posed to Animal Services on a daily basis. All calls regarding barking dogs are taken seriously and we do everything allowed by law to find a solution the situation for the citizen.

When dogs are left outside or have a doggy door to go outside while you are at work or running an errand, you can count on them barking at some point. The barking can be for only a few minutes at a time to barking for hours. Noise complaints can be filed with Animal Services at 322-DOGS (3647). If you received a notice of a noise complaint and have questions, you can call the same number for details.

Washoe County Code Chapter 50, 50.308 (18), Keeping, harboring or owning any animal that by making loud and frequent sound causes annoyance to, or disturbance of the peace or comfort of, the neighborhood or a reasonable person of normal sensitivities in the vicinity.

So if you are the owner of a barking dog, what can you do to keep tranquility in your neighborhood? Purchasing an Anti-Bark Collar could be one answer. Here are three types of anti-bark collars.

• First is a Noise Collar, and is probably the least effective. It emits an irritating sound whenever the dog barks, but after a period of time, the dog gets used to the sound and starts barking again.
• Second is a Citronella Collar that emits a spray of citronella when the dog barks. Dogs don’t like the smell, but can become accustomed to it.
• Third and sometimes more effective, is the Static Shock Collar. Shock collars are not the torture devices they are often portrayed to be. Nor are they the magic bullet to fix everything that is wrong with your dog. They are a tool, and in certain circumstances, this tool can be used to shape and modify dog behavior. As with any type of training collar, the dog owner should be knowledgeable about its use.

It’s natural for dogs to bark as a way of greeting people and other animals, as a way to express fear and to protect their territory. Don’t expect to stop your dog’s natural barking inclinations. You can teach them when it’s inappropriate to bark and to follow your commands. Never physically punish or yell at your dog when it barks, it won’t stop the problem and can build fear and mistrust.

Some suggestions to aid in curtailing barking are:

• Obedience training
• Give your dog plenty of exercise and time with you
• Use interactive toys when you are away to relieve stress.