How to File a Complaint About a Neighbor's Barking Dogs

Incessant barking from a neighbor's dog can keep you up at night and disturb you during the day. If a neighbor's dog barks on a daily basis, try talking to the neighbor since he may not know the extent of the problem. If the barking continues after you have tried to talk to the neighbor or left a note regarding the issue, you can take measures to report the neighbor. You can file a complaint with your local law enforcement or animal control regarding the barking.

Things You'll Need

  • Barking dog complaint form (if applicable)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Call your local animal control office and ask if that agency enforces and accepts complaints about barking dogs. If your town or city does not have an animal control office, contact your local law enforcement agency to file the complaint using the non-emergency contact number. Check the phone book or the agency's website to find the non-emergency contact number. You can find your local animal control contact information through the ASPCA website (aspca.org).

    • 2

      Ask the agency that handles barking dog problems about the procedure to file a complaint. Some agencies will allow you to file a complaint over the phone, by email or online, while others require you to send in a written complaint. Write down the website or email address information to file the complaint. Otherwise, obtain the address to mail the complaint to and ask if a specific form is required to file the complaint. Get the website address to download the form, have the form faxed to you, pick the form up from the office or ask the officer to mail you a form.

    • 3

      Submit your complaint over the phone or write out the complaint, listing your name, address, phone number and the address of the offending neighbor. Note times, dates and length of the dog's barking. Mail any required forms and other documentation to the appropriate agency to file the complaint or submit the information electronically through the Internet or email.

    • 4

      Call the agency to follow up on your complaint to ensure it was received. If the barking continues, especially late at night consistently, ask the agency if they can send an officer out to investigate the neighbor's home and witness the barking. A police or animal control officer may come out to the property to investigate and possibly issue a citation to the neighbor. The officer may also need to speak with you in person during this process.

    • 5

      Speak with your other neighbors about the problem with the particular neighbor's barking dog or dogs. Some municipalities require that at least two different residents must file a complaint against the neighbor with the barking dog before any action is taken, including a citation or letter of warning.