Where barking dogs are causing a noise nuisance, the Environmental Protection Unit will write to the owner of the dog advising that a complaint has been made and giving them the information on how to prevent excessive barking given below.
Complainants will be sent details of how to apply to the District Court under the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 for an Order to prevent the noise, should the barking continue.
Guidance for owners of dogs left alone in the house
If you have to leave your dog or dogs alone in the house, here are some tips to help prevent them barking and causing nuisance to neighbours.
Safe retreat
Make sure that when you are out your dog feels both happy and safe by:
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Providing a safe and cosy den, in for example an enclosed corner or in a crate with comfy bedding so that he has learned to see as his own. If you are only going out for a couple of hours leave him in his safe retreat (with water) so he can view the time as his rest period.
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Try to leave the Television or Radio on, so it sounds as though someone is still in the house.
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Your Dog is likely to become anxious if he runs out of water so ensure that you leave out a large fresh bowlful before departing.
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If your dog takes comfort in cuddles he may appreciate being left with a soft toy or fleecy blanket.
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A dog feels secure and is less likely to be anxious when he knows what will happen next, so try to stick to a set routine that he enjoys when leaving the house.
Teach puppies to be alone. From even just a few weeks old you should remove them from their litter mates for very short periods so that they learn to cope with isolation.
Provide diversions
Activity toys may keep your dog busy and happy when you are out. These come in a variety of shapes, colours and prices, the principle however is the same, the idea being that the toy is stuffed with food treats which the dog releases by rolling / chewing / licking the toy.
Arrivals and departures
Try to keep all your arrivals and departures as low key as possible and ignore any excitable behaviour from your dog at these times. If you don't make a fuss of him before you leave or upon your return, it will make the contrast of your absence more bearable. If your dog jumps up and is excitable when you come in, try greeting other members of the family and making a cup of coffee before saying hello to him.
Similarly, don't try to make up for your absence by making a huge fuss of your dog when you are at home, as this will make him all the more dependant on your company and reluctant to see you leave. To make your absence an easier transition for your dog ensure that he has periods of isolation even when you are home and do not always give in to his demands for attention.
Exercise
Your Dog will be grateful for a rest if you keep him active at other times.
If you can, take him for a long walk or a good run off the lead, before leaving him. (Remember to use a poop scoop and dispose of it correctly).
Try teaching him a new trick, like shaking a paw or rolling over, mental activity is often tiring for dogs.
Join obedience or agility classes to give him something new to think about.
Friends and neighbours
Just because you have to go out, doesn't mean that your dog needs to be alone, Is there a dog friendly neighbour who could let him into the garden or take him for a walk? Or a dog-mad, but responsible teenager who would be happy to have your dog for the day?
Younger and older dogs in particular will need to be let out to the toilet, as they may not be as able to hold on for more than a few hours. If you are really stuck speak with your Vet about pet-sitters in your area.
Dos and Don'ts
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Do make sure your dog has lots of exercise and stimulation before leaving him alone for any period of time.
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Do ensure he has plenty of fresh water.
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Do consider getting expert help if he is unhappy and destructive when you are out.
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Don't leave him for excessive long periods.
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Don't allow him constant access when you are at home.
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Don't punish your dog if he’s made a mess while your away.
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Don't make too much fuss when you leave or return home.
Useful toys
A large variety of activity related toys are available in shops and on the internet, Falkirk Council does not promote the use of any of the toys below in particular nor promise they will be successful. Many others are available, perhaps your vet, friends or neighbours can recommend some that they know work particularly well.
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The Havaball from Crosskeys periodically releases treats as your dog plays with it. Working out how to get more treats will help to exercise his mind. For details visit www.crosskeysbooks.com or telephone 0871 666 0446
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The Kong from The Company of Animals, is a bouncy, tough rubber toy that can be stuffed with food treats. Your dog can then spend hours chewing and licking the toy to remove the treats. Visit www.companyofanimals.co.uk or telelephone 01932 566696
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The colourful Activity Ball from Canac contains two holes for treats, which then come tumbling out as the dog plays with it. For details of local stockists telephone 01427 810231 or e-mail enquiries@sinclair-sahc.com
But nothing I do works!
Old dogs can be taught new tricks. Ask your vet. Sometimes a dog will bark because he is ill; anxiety is often the cause of barking. You can ask your vet to refer your dog to an animal behaviourist expert who can suggest ways to improve your dog's behaviour.
Please contact us for further advice on noise nuisance.