You're trying to sleep, or maybe just relax with your partner, but you can't because your neighbor's dog is barking incessantly! What can you do?
Steps
Step 1. Dress appropriately to go out (a sweater and an overcoat may be fine) and look up the dog's owner's address to make a note of it. Do notknock on the neighbors' door at night, because you would risk a certain vehemence. Rather, go back to bed, try to turn on a white noise emitter and or use some earplugs and try to get as much rest as possible.
If you can't sleep, write a letter to the owner (which you may or may not send). Alternatively, you can keep a detailed diary of how often the dog barks, noting the time and keeping it in your documents
Step 2. In the morning, consider your options for letting the dog owner know about the noise his dog is making
- An option is to leave a letter to the neighbors. This is often the best way to avoid confrontation but at the same time convey the problem. Try to use positive (not accusatory) language and use words related to your feelings to express your discomfort. Use their names if you have them, and keep a copy for documentation in case you need to file a complaint in the future.
- You may also want to consider knocking on their door during the day and trying to talk to them, depending on your level of assertiveness, calm and skill. This method works best if you are a friendly person and see them as potential friends or allies. Allies are always more useful than enemies.
Step 3. Tell your neighbors clearly what you want them to do
Whether you write them a letter or visit them, don't be sloppy about it - be explicit - tell them at what times it is unacceptable to let their dog bark repeatedly.
Step 4. Inform the owner of the dog about the possible options (keep the dog in the house with them, turn on the radio for the dog when he goes out in the evening) whether you write to them or discuss with them
Generally, dogs bark because they feel lonely. They are social animals and do not like being alone.
Step 5. Use this unpleasant situation as an opportunity to work on relaxation, inner serenity and self-control skills
It's not the dog that makes you miserable - you make yourself miserable - so why not learn to let go of your aversion and find better things to channel your energy into.
Step 6. Mentally re-locate the dog's barking as something pleasant, such as music, laughter or someone chatting
Laugh when you hear it, or see if you can get a funny reaction.
Step 7. Call the police to ask the owner to stop "barking disturbance" which is usually considered a public nuisance, this as a last resort
It is best to call the telephone number of the local municipal police department office, not the emergency numbers (such as 113 or 112). Check the phone book of your city.
Advice
- A white noise generator is a lifesaver. Listen to some fake waves or drizzle and the dog's bark will vanish into thin air.
- Consider socializing with the dog - talk to him through the fence, bring him treats (however also ask the owners for your safety and that of the dog who may have behavioral problems or food allergies). If you gradually start to like the dog, its bark may not drive you so crazy anymore.
Warnings
- Do not threaten the owner to call the police as this could create hostility between you. You always have the right to do it if nothing else works, but don't use it as a threat.
- Do not harm the dog - it is not his fault and it is an illegal act. Furthermore, you would create a hostile situation that could negatively reflect on you from a criminal point of view.
