Barking, Roaming Dogs and Dog Attacks
Dog owners must prevent their animals from causing a nuisance or putting people and animals at risk. The right response depends on whether the issue is annoying, unsafe or an immediate emergency.
Dog Attack or Immediate Danger
- Move to safety and do not chase, corner or handle an unfamiliar dog.
- Call 000 if a person is in immediate danger or needs urgent medical help.
- If a dog attacks a person, report the incident to Police and Ranger Services. If an incident involves an animal and no person is in immediate danger, report it to Ranger Services; call 000 if the dog remains an immediate public danger. For an urgent dog attack after hours, call 0428 512 356.
- Seek medical or veterinary attention as needed.
- Record the time, exact location, dog and owner description, injuries, witnesses and photographs.
Report dog attacks, attempted attacks, aggressive rushing and threatening behaviour to Ranger Services. If a person was attacked, also report the incident to Police. Prompt reporting helps Rangers locate the dog, assess risk and preserve evidence.
A Dog is Roaming
Do not put yourself at risk trying to catch a dog. If it is safe, note the dog’s description, tag details, location and direction of travel. Contact Ranger Services on (08) 9892 1137. Call 000 if the dog is creating immediate danger on a road or actively attacking.
Owners should check fencing, gates and latches regularly. A dog found wandering may be impounded, and fees may apply before release.
Excessive Barking
Occasional barking is normal. Repeated or prolonged barking can become a nuisance when it unreasonably interferes with nearby residents.
If you are Affected by Barking
- If it is safe and appropriate, speak calmly with the owner. They may not know what happens when they are away.
- Keep a dated record of the barking, including start and finish times, duration, triggers and how it affects you.
- Avoid provoking the dog or entering the property.
- If the problem continues, contact Ranger Services and provide your diary and any other relevant information.
If Your Dog is Barking
- Check for boredom, anxiety, injury, hunger, territorial triggers or insufficient exercise.
- Bring the dog inside or move it away from common triggers.
- Provide secure shelter, enrichment and regular exercise suited to the dog.
- Seek advice from a veterinarian or qualified behaviour professional if the cause is unclear.
- Respond constructively to neighbour concerns and keep a record of changes made.
How Rangers Assess a Complaint
An officer may contact the complainant and owner, review a barking diary, visit the area and seek further evidence. The aim is to resolve the nuisance where possible, but enforcement action may be considered when legal requirements are met.
Make a report