Barking dogs

It’s natural for dogs to bark, but when it happens a lot, or goes on for a long time, it can cause annoyance and disturbance. Often the dog owner may not know how serious the problem is, if their dog barks whilst they are out.

What can I do?

If you are a dog owner, and have been approached by a neighbour about your dog barking too much, the first step is to calmly talk things over with them and try to work out a solution. You can get further advice on reducing the amount of noise your dog is making in this DEFRA booklet.

If you are being troubled by noise from your neighbour’s dog, you can approach your neighbour to explain politely that you are being disturbed. However you should approach the matter carefully if you feel that your neighbour might react angrily.  Keep a barking dog diary.

If the problem continues, you can take your own action under section 82 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. You can find more information within the Council's Noise Nuisance booklet.

Alternatively, you can report dog barking to us.

Noise complaints relating to Trafford Housing Trust properties are dealt with by the Customer Hub of the Trust.

What we will do

Dog barking can be a statutory nuisance, which is described as: 'something that can affect a persons' health or disturbs them or their property'. The Environmental Protection Act allows Local Authorities to deal with noise from fixed premises. Before action can be taken we have to prove that the noise can be harmful to health and/or is causing an unreasonable and continuous disturbance to your lifestyle.

There are some occasions where we are unable to take action. If we decide that formal action cannot be taken, you will be informed and be given advice about taking action yourself if you wish to do so. You can find more information in our Noise Nuisance booklet.

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