An Enfield dog owner has been ordered to pay £1,850 in fines, costs and a surcharge after breaching a noise abatement notice relating to his dog's continuous barking. The case, heard earlier this month, highlights the financial consequences of persistent canine noise for owners and neighbours alike.
For neighbours, relentless barking causes significant disruption, while for owners it serves as a warning sign. The behaviour often begins with actions many consider innocent, such as an enthusiastic 'welcome home' greeting.
Expert guidance on barking behaviour
Annie-Mae Levy, CFBA, a professional dog trainer at Woofz, offers guidance on the reasons behind persistent barking and the steps owners can take before matters escalate into neighbourhood disputes. The expert explains that continuous barking almost invariably indicates a dog is being left alone for longer than it can manage, and outlines three actions owners can implement before complaints intensify.
Reconsider the 'welcome home'
"If your dog is barking due to separation anxiety, it can feel like a good idea to give them lots of praise and attention when you come through the door, as you know they've 'missed you'!"
"This will often make dogs more anxious or frustrated when you're not home; however, we have inadvertently created more anticipation for the owner return."
"Whilst this tip alone won't create separation anxiety, its definitely one to bare in mind if raising a puppy as it can be a big contributing factor!"
Reassess how long your dog is alone
"For boredom or frustration barking, there is usually a big disconnect between the dog's needs and the owners capability to provide for them."
"Most dogs do not do well left alone for more than 5 hours at a time and so if a (especially young or higher energy breed) dog is regularly being left for durations longer than this, a big lifestyle change is needed as opposed to simply more exercise or toys."
Understand what's behind the barking
"Persistent barking that goes on in a nearly continuous way for hours is nearly always separation anxiety or a result of boredom/frustration. These two barks can be rather hard to tell apart but often separation anxiety-related barking will include more howls and tone changes than a dog that is bored or frustrated."
"For separation anxiety, a detailed desensitisation plan will be needed, and usually these cases require involvement from a qualified behaviourist."
