Police explain rights if neighbour's dog is always barking

Police explain rights if neighbour's dog is always barkingAn occasional bark if nothing to worry about, but if they are barking all day, it could be an issueCommentsNewsSophie Buchan Money and Lifestyle Writer12:02, 08 Apr 2026View 3 ImagesYou should make sure you are getting their barking under control(Image: FreshSplash via Getty Images)If you have a dog, or you live next to one, you may hear some barking. But when is enough enough?‌According to askthe.police.uk, if your dog barks, your neighbour could complain. As part of its Loud Noise section, it notes that question 124 reads: "The dog next door is always barking, what can I do?"‌In their answer, they say: "In the first instance, we would advise that you approach your neighbour directly in an attempt to resolve the situation. They may not be aware that it [barking] is happening.‌"You should always ensure that any contact does not escalate the situation. If you have already tried this, the noise could amount to noise nuisance so, you should contact your local authority who will have a specific department to deal with such issues."View 3 ImagesYour dog may be barking due to stress(Image: NickyLloyd via Getty Images)It adds: "Unless there is any evidence of the dog being mistreated then the RSPCA will not be able to help. If you do believe that the dog is being mistreated, you can contact the RSPCA."‌Why does my/my neighbour's dog bark so much?View 3 ImagesRemember to take poo bags on your walk!(Image: Getty)According to rspca.org.uk, "dogs bark for many different reasons. A dog may bark to express how they're feeling - for example, when they're excited, frustrated, bored or scared. If a dog feels threatened, they may bark to tell somebody to stay away or to leave."Touching on the subject of noisy dogs, it explains: "The occasional bark or 'woof' is usually not a problem for neighbours and others in the community, but when barking beco...