Different Barking Problem

I have been reading all of the posts in this forum and others looking for solutions for our barking problem. In all of the other threads, usually the first question is: Is the dog bored, does the dog get enough exercise, etc. That is not our issue. We have two dogs that we let play outside during the day. They also get plenty of exercise with us. The barking becomes a problem when they are playing with each other. They will be playing tug-o-war or chasing each other around the yard and just bark like crazy because they are having so much fun. The issue is that it is bothering my neighbors. We have worked on correcting them for barking at cars and people, but don't want to when they are just having fun. We don't know what to do. We don't want to have to get collars and teach them they can't bark at all. Any ideas?

I know they are neighbors and you have to try to appease them but seriously how long can they possibly be barking when playing with each other? Sometimes you just have to tolerate a little barking! If it goes on solidly for hours at a time, I could see the issue but I am sure it does'nt so I wish you luck because your neighbors sound like grumps! I hope that you dont put a collar on them that inhibits their " making joyful noise" when playing with each other!!!

First off let your neighbors know you're aware of the problem and searching for a solution without resorting to electronic collars. Sometimes letting them know you're aware and trying to do something is all they need.

Second, what breed are they? Some breeds are simply barkers because they were bred to do so. Some breeds respond to training that if they bark, their play time is over. They soon learn to play without barking, because as long as playtime remains bark-free they can continue to play. It works on some dogs, but not all. The barking breeds have a really hard time with this concept because its inbred to bark when excited.

Our city laws state that a dog cannot bark for more than 10 minutes. I once fostered a poodle who made a lot of noise while playing. My neighbor called the law.

Fortunately, we found a furever home for her.

Most neighbors understand that barking is what dogs do. If yours don't, check the laws. Some cities allow limited hours, others don't consider it a problem if your dogs bark all day. Do your neighbors understand that they are playing? Are the dogs outside all day?

Neighbors have a right to some peace as well. Maybe the dogs can be given certain times to enjoy loud play and be kept quiet at others. There needs to be some compromise by both parties.