Neighbor's Dogs Harassing my cats

[Jessika]

I wouldn't bother with a sign. I would definitely go out and confront them about the issue. Walking their dogs past your window is one thing but standing there for that long knowing the dogs upset your cats is pretty rude in my book. If you can hold on to your temper fine , if you can't then they've earned your wrath by their own rude behavior.
You could try getting a water gun and maybe have your window open wide enough to squirt the dogs in the face if possible ...lemon juice in the gun might work wonders. If the owners say anything just tell them you can't stand the noise the dogs make . Is there a landlord you could speak to about the issue?

These are all privately owned condos. We rent ours from the lady who owns our specific condo. I'm sure there's some organization over all of them, but if there is the information hasn't been made aware to me.'

[Taz_Zoee]

What if the next time it happens you just appear at the window and stare back at them with a look of "WTH" on your face? Think they'd get the picture??

[Jessika]

What if the next time it happens you just appear at the window and stare back at them with a look of "WTH" on your face? Think they'd get the picture??

I've actually done something like that once; dogs were barking relentlessly through the window, and I put up with it for a good while before I finally walked over, threw the blinds back, grabbed Espeon from the sill, shot a dirty look at the owner, and walked away.

And yet, it still happens...

[Pinot's Mom]

These are all privately owned condos. We rent ours from the lady who owns our specific condo. I'm sure there's some organization over all of them, but if there is the information hasn't been made aware to me.'

If you live anywhere governed by covenants it is your responsibility to obtain a copy of those covenants. This would explain the rules/regulations as well as your methods of recourse in these situations. One of the reasons for these covenants is that there is a governing body to take responsibility in these cases. It would also explain the intended use of the area outside.

Find out what your rights are and have those responsible take care of the situation.

[moosmom]

Pino's Mom and Freedom have the right idea. I'd get a copy of the Condo Association rules. Then the next time they do it (it IS all about respecting your neighbors around you), go out and confront them and show them the rules. If they DON'T get it, then I'd file a complaint with the Association and let them put them in their place.

Do they walk their dogs on a leash or just let them run up to the window? If they're unleashed, they are being irresponsible pet owners. Get the Association involved. I think coming from them, they may take it more seriously.

[pomtzu]

Personally, I would start with the least offensive act, that of nicely confronting them and explaining that it is stressing the cats - and you too. Walking past the window, and letting the dogs stand and bark into it, are two entirely different situations - the latter being totally rude and inconsiderate. If the dog's owner gets an attitude with you, or if the situation continues, then I'd definitely look into the condo rules. The owner that you are renting from has the responsibility to see to it that you have a copy which you can refer to and take appropriate action on anything, if and when needed.

[Karen]

I would talk to her nicely. Pretend it is an acting job, and you are playing someone brave! Explain the situation to her, and ask that she just not pause there, but keep moving along! She may be unaware or what or why they are barking, or that it bothers anyone!

[Varga]

That is indeed a very odd situation. I can't imagine anyone thinking it's ok to just let their dog bark non-stop like that while they are standing right there and are perfectly capable of doing something about it. Is it always the same person?
I know confronting them sucks but I also agree that it would be the best approach - at least at first. Maybe your boyfriend could do it? I'm no good at confrontation myself, so I'll admit it's definitely something I would pass along if I could
Best of luck. Hope it gets solved.

[Jessika]

We -have- tried getting a copy of the "neighborhood association" or at least information to get ahold of someone (phone number, anything) and our landlord... like, she won't. I guess she wants us to go through her every time??? But she isn't always available and will take days to get back to us at times! The neighbors here aren't very personable: they will leave notes on our front door/cars instead of just knocking on our door to talk to us like adults. So I'm still at a loss. I could try asking my landlord for the information again but I'm not sure it will get me anywhere. =/