Instructions
Find the reason for the dog's barking. According to TrainPetDog, barking can signify a dog's need for attention as well as display excitement or watchdog behavior. If a dog barks excessively, there could be an underlying cause that should be attended to before the owner tries to discourage the barking. For example, a dog might need a more stimulating environment with more activity, or it could be territorial barking. Get a journal and record the date and time of all barking. If you can see the dog, note the context of the barking. Present this information to the owner and discuss possible solutions.
Discourage barking with an electronic device or a citronella spray collar. According to Cornell University, a citronella collar, which sprays citronella fragrance whenever the dog barks, is more effective than a shock collar. Discuss this option with the dog's owner.
Get a free-standing electronic device that releases an irritating, high-pitched sound each time the dog barks. The sound emitted by some of these devices is audible to humans. The electronic device can be placed anywhere it will receive unobstructed sound from the dog, but it must be within a certain range of the dog -- usually 25 feet.
File a complaint. If the owner is doing nothing to stop the barking despite your requests, call the police or a local animal shelter for help and advice. Keep your journal of the dog's barking handy, as the police may want specific information for filing a noise complaint. Each jurisdiction will have different procedures and laws for dealing with disruptive barking. If you live in an apartment complex or community, complain to your landlord or building manager.
Get help. If it's your dog and you cannot be there to stop the barking, hire a professional for preventive training. Otherwise, your only solution is surgery or medication, which many consider inhumane, as they limit the dog's natural ability to make sounds.
How to Stop a Dog From Barking Long Distance
Regardless of whether the barking dog is yours or a neighbor's, the sound can be highly irritating and distracting. If it's your dog, there are some ways you can tackle the problem. If it's not, consider a way you can tactfully approach the dog's owner with both the problem at hand, as well as viable solutions, before you take the matter into your own hands.