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Dog Ownership

Be a Responsible Dog Owner and A Good Neighbor

A barking dog

Being a responsible dog owner and good neighbor go hand-in-hand.


The dog that gives you companionship and protection can also be a disturbance for your neighbors. There are many ways to prevent problems and find cooperative solutions if problems develop.
This guide will help you to control your pet and maintain a peaceful neighborhood.

Be a Good Neighbor

Introduce yourself and your dog to your immediate neighbors. Invite them to call you if they are concerned about your dog's behavior.  Exchange phone numbers.  Assure them you will work with them to solve any problems that arise.

Be Considerate

Consider how your dog's behavior may be impacting those who live nearby. For example:
  • The bark that gives you comfort may wake a sleeping child during an afternoon nap or intimidate a backyard gardener.
  • When left unleashed, your dog may wander beyond your yard and create problems.
  • When unsupervised, your dog may bark for long periods of time.

Be Responsible

Dog owners are responsible for the behavior of their pet. Voluntary compliance with City codes and ordinances will allow everyone to enjoy a peaceful community. Dogs should not:
  • Damage property
  • Bother pedestrians
  • Run at large by being off the premises of the owner, unrestrained by a leash, or out of the immediate voice control of the owner
  • Be allowed to create unsanitary conditions by leaving excrement in a public area
  • Display dangerous or vicious behavior
  • Disturb the peace, comfort, or health of any person of reasonable sensitivity by making loud, long, unnecessary and continuous noises.

Be Open

Ask your neighbors if they have been disturbed by your pet and take action to remedy any problems. Share information about your view of the problem; listen and understand the other person's perspective.

Be Cooperative

Our free Neighborhood Mediation Program can help you resolve barking dog and noise issues. Contact them for problem-solving assistance and mediation services. Mediators enhance the likelihood of achieving a cooperative solution.