Animal complaints

Neighbours discussion

Learn what is considered an animal complaint, how to lodge a complaint and what solutions are available.

In order to make a complaint about a dog or cat's behaviour, the problem must be persistent and unreasonable.

Talk to your neighbour first

Minor disagreements about your neighbours' pets are usually better to resolve with your neighbour by yourself. Be reasonable about animal behaviour - all cats like to wander, and all dogs will bark sometimes.

  • Don't be too quick to react – wait and see if the problem continues repeatedly.
  • Discuss your concerns with your neighbour in a friendly way. Many owners don't realise their pet is being a nuisance to others. For tips on how to do this, refer to our barking dog booklet(PDF, 2MB).
  • Try to find a solution that suits both of you.
  • The solution might take time to see the benefits; it takes time to train an animal.

Lodging a barking dog complaint

If you are unable to resolve an issue with a barking dog directly with the dog owner, you may lodge a formal complaint with Council. 

To lodge a complaint, you will need to provide:

  • Your name, address and phone number
  • The address where the dog is kept
  • A completed Barking Dog Complaint Form
  • A completed 14-day Barking Dog Diary
  • Details of other affected residents who are willing to support the complaint
  • Ongoing diary entries if requested by Council

For more information on resolving barking dog issues, refer to our barking dog booklet(PDF, 2MB)

Submitting your complaint

Barking dog complaints can be submitted online, via post or in person at one of Customer Service Centres. 

Barking dog complaint

Postal address

Animal Management Team 
Darebin City Council
PO Box 91
Preston VIC 3072

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