Barking is a natural behavior for dogs - they bark to express joy, fear and loneliness. At times, chronic dog barking, howling or crying can interfere with neighbors. It is the responsibility of the dog owner to insure their dog does not annoy the neighbors, and chronic barking issues can result in the issuance of a citation by Animal Officers.

Title 8 of the Sacramento County Code: No owner of an animal, wild or domestic, shall permit...the animal to...make loud or disturbing noises without provocation, including, but not limited to, chronic howling, yowling, barking, whining or or other utterances...Full Title 8 text

To the extent possible and practical, follow the following steps:

1. If possible, talk to your neighbor about the problem. Often they are not aware that their dog’s barking is creating a problem.

2. If you cannot resolve the issue and it is becoming a nuisance, call to register the nuisance complaint at 916-875-5656 and keep the case number they will give to you. A letter and helpful tip sheet will be sent to your neighbor advising them of the problem. Generally, neighbors will curb the problem after receiving the letter. Please wait 15 days from the date of this letter being sent out before calling again to allow the dog owners time to receive the letter and work on the barking problem.

3. If the barking annoyance continues past 15 days, call again and a second letter will be sent to the dog owner.

It may be helpful to do the following:

• Talk to the neighbors and find out of anyone else is bothered and may wish to testify.
• Keep notes and/or logs to document the dog(s) barking.
• Make audio or visual recordings of the dog(s) barking, be sure to sign and date the tapes.
• Keep records of your contacts with the dog owner if you have spoken ot written to them.
• Keep records of your contact with the County.