Can You Call the Police for Barking Dogs?
The age-old problem of barking dogs has been a thorn in the side of many a neighbor, homeowner, and dog owner. While some may find the sound of a barking dog soothing, others may find it downright disturbing. But when does barking become a problem worthy of calling the police?
What is Considered Excessive Barking?
Before we dive into whether or not you can call the police for barking dogs, let’s define what constitutes excessive barking. The American Kennel Club (AKC) defines excessive barking as barking that persists for more than 15 minutes, occurs more than three times a day, or is loud enough to disturb the peace. [1]
Can You Call the Police for Barking Dogs?
In most cases, the answer is no. Police departments are generally not equipped to handle complaints about barking dogs, and officers may not have the authority to take action. [2] According to the National Institute of Mental Health, "most local police departments do not have the resources or jurisdiction to deal with barking dog complaints" [3].
When to Call the Police
There are, however, some exceptions. If the barking is accompanied by other disturbances, such as loud noises, threats, or actual violence, it may be appropriate to call the police. For example, if a dog is barking incessantly and someone is threatening to harm themselves or others, or if the barking is causing a significant disturbance to the peace, it may be necessary to call the authorities.
Alternative Solutions
Before calling the police, it’s worth exploring alternative solutions to address the barking issue. Here are some options:
- Talk to the dog owner: If you’re being disturbed by a barking dog, try talking to the owner about the issue. They may not be aware of the disturbance they’re causing and may be willing to work with you to find a solution.
- Contact local animal control: Local animal control agencies are equipped to handle barking dog complaints and may be able to assist in resolving the issue. They may be able to speak with the dog owner, issue a warning, or even confiscate the dog if it’s deemed a nuisance.
- Consider mediation: Mediation services, such as the Mediation Center of Orange County, offer a neutral third-party to help resolve disputes between neighbors, including those related to barking dogs.
- Contact your local government: Your local government may have specific ordinances or regulations related to noise disturbances, including barking dogs. You can contact your local government to see if there are any laws or regulations that can help address the issue.
Table: Barking Dog Complaint Options
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Talk to the dog owner | Try to resolve the issue by speaking with the dog owner |
| Contact local animal control | Report the issue to local animal control agency |
| Consider mediation | Use a neutral third-party to resolve the dispute |
| Contact your local government | Review local laws and regulations related to noise disturbances |
Conclusion
While barking dogs can be a significant disturbance, it’s generally not appropriate to call the police for this reason alone. Instead, try to resolve the issue through alternative means, such as talking to the dog owner, contacting local animal control, or considering mediation. Remember to review local laws and regulations related to noise disturbances and consider seeking assistance from your local government if necessary.
References
