Barking Dog and Nuisance

The Shire understands persistent barking can significantly impact people's lives, diminishing their quality of life. However, the laws surrounding dog nuisance are governed by State Legislation, and local authorities must follow specific processes.

Dogs bark for various reasons, and habitual barking may indicate underlying issues. Some breeds naturally bark more than others, but the most common causes of excessive barking include:

  • Boredom and loneliness
  • Confinement and isolation
  • Lack of exercise and stimulation
  • Insufficient training
  • Separation anxiety
  • External triggers (e.g., passing people, vehicles, other dogs, or wildlife)
  • Health concerns

In many cases, excessive barking occurs when the owner is absent, and the owner may be unaware of the problem. In these situations, approaching the dog owner in a friendly, informative, and neighborly manner can be the first step to addressing the issue. If reasonable attempts to resolve the matter directly with the owner do not succeed, you may contact the Shire for further assistance.

What can you do?

If you have a civil relationship with the dog owner, having a direct conversation with them can often be the best approach. Sharing details of when the barking occurs, what triggers it, and how it affects you can help the owner understand the issue.

If you are not able to speak directly with the owner, 'a nuisance created by a dog' form is required to be completed and submitted to the Shire for the complaint to be forwarded to the Rangers at Narrogin who will then investigate your complaint.

Keeping a record – documenting times, dates, behaviour, and impact

If the dog is consistently barking, it is advised to create a spreadsheet to keep track of the time, date, behaviour, and impact of the dog's nuisance behaviour. you will need to complete this record for 7 consecutive days to provide an accurate timeline for the Rangers. You can either hand the form in at the Shire or send it to admin@wickepin.wa.gov.au.

Suggested solutions for dog owners

  • No-shock training collar
  • Anti-bark devices
  • Thunder shirts
  • Anxiety wraps
  • Crate training
  • Providing engaging activities for your dog
  • Stuffed Kong toys
  • Puzzle feeders
  • Barking dog collars
  • Electric pet barriers