How to deal with neighbors who complain about your dog: coexistence and solutions

Having a dog at home is synonymous with joy, company and affection. But it is not always synonymous with tranquility — especially when there are other people sharing the same building, street or condominium.
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In many cases, guardians end up facing an uncomfortable situation: dealing with neighbors who complain about your dog by barking, noises or even by presence in common areas.
This type of conflict can lead to stress, misunderstandings and even legal action. But most of the time, the solution lies in dialogue, common sense and small changes to your pet's routine. After all, everyone wants peace where they live — including you.
Is your dog really bothering you? Or are there ways to reduce friction and ensure a more harmonious coexistence?
Why do neighbors complain?
The most common reasons for complaints are related to noise and behavior that interferes with the peace and quiet of others. These include:
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- Constant barking or barking at inopportune times
- Crying or howling during the owner's absence
- Running and scratching the floor (in apartments)
- Odor of uncollected feces or urine
- Presence of the dog in prohibited areas of the building
- Alleged risks to the safety of other people or animals
Complaints are not always made politely — but in many cases, the discomfort is real and needs to be taken seriously.
The first step: listen carefully
As difficult as it may be to receive criticism, the first step is to listen. Take a deep breath, avoid responding impulsively, and try to understand exactly what is bothering you.
Sometimes, the owner doesn't realize that the dog barks non-stop when he's outside. Or that the sound of his paws on the floor bothers the neighbor below. Or that the strong smell from the outside area is invading the balcony next door.
Listening does not mean accepting aggression or offenses. But it is the beginning of building a solution in an adult and responsible way.
Read also: How to Deal with a Dog That Barks Too Much
What does the law say?
The Brazilian Civil Code guarantees the right of neighbors, that is, the right of every resident to live without disturbances. This includes excessive noise, bad smells, insecurity or improper use of common spaces.
On the other hand, the law also guarantees the right to have a pet, as long as it does not compromise the health or peace of others.
The secret is balance. And if the situation continues, both the guardian and the neighbor can resort to mediation, the condominium administration or even the courts — although this should always be the last resort.
When the problem is barking
Barking is a form of canine communication. Dogs bark to alert, ask for attention, express fear or frustration.
But when the barking becomes constant or occurs during quiet times (such as at night or early in the morning), it can really bother the neighbors.
What to do:
- Find out the reason for the barking: anxiety, boredom, fear of external noises or loneliness?
- Offer more stimulation during the day: walks, toys, environmental enrichment.
- Avoid leaving your dog alone for long hours without distractions.
- Train commands like “quiet” with positive reinforcement.
- Consider visual barriers at the window to avoid external stimuli.
When the problem is noise downstairs
In apartments, the sound of paws, toys hitting the floor or running down the hallway can be amplified, especially on cold floors without soundproofing.
What to do:
- Place rugs in areas where your dog runs or plays.
- Avoid more active play during quiet times (such as early morning or evening).
- Use silent toys that don't make squeaks and don't bounce on the floor.
- If possible, limit access to more sensitive rooms, such as bedrooms above other bedrooms.
Small changes make a big difference in everyday life and help to preserve good coexistence.
When the problem is presence in common areas
In condominiums, many complaints arise due to non-compliance with internal rules: use of elevators, walking on stairs, walking without a guide, or not picking up trash.
What to do:
- Know the rules of your condominium and respect the limits.
- Always carry a bag to collect feces.
- Keep your dog on a leash at all times in shared spaces.
- If your pet is sociable, explain this to your neighbors — but never force contact.
When the neighbor exaggerates (or is intolerant)
Complaints are not always fair. There are neighbors who complain about any noise, even the slightest. Or they don't like animals and use any excuse to pressure the owner.
In these cases:
- Record episodes with dates, times and situations.
- Use cameras or recorders to record whether the dog is actually barking excessively.
- Talk to the condominium administration and, if necessary, propose mediation.
- Don't confront aggressively — stay calm and firm.
If you are still being persecuted or falsely accused, it is worth seeking legal advice to protect yourself.
A simple analogy: coexistence is like a synchronized dance
Living in society is like dancing with other people in a shared space. You have freedom, but you also need to feel the other person's rhythm.
When a dog joins this dance, it is up to the owner to teach the right steps. With harmony, respect and listening, coexistence flows — even with different breeds in the same room.
A statistic that says a lot
According to a survey by Getulio Vargas Foundation, 1 in 3 lawsuits in condominiums involve pets. Among the main reasons are constant barking, circulation in prohibited areas and lack of hygiene.
This shows how relevant the topic is — and how dialogue and prevention can avoid headaches.
How to improve your relationship with your neighbors
- Introduce your dog to neighbors when possible, showing that he is docile and well cared for.
- Leave your phone with your nearest neighbors in case there is noise or anything out of the ordinary.
- Show that you are open to resolving the issue — not fighting.
- Deliver on your promises: if you say you will act, act.
- Be polite even when the other side isn't.
Respect builds bridges — and the opposite digs ditches.
Conclusion
Dealing with Neighbors Who Complain About Your Dog It may be uncomfortable, but it is also an opportunity to improve coexistence, understand your pet better and build a more mature relationship with those who share the same space.
With empathy, simple adjustments, and a willingness to listen, most conflicts can be resolved—or at least mitigated. Your dog depends on you to make sure he’s seen as part of the neighborhood, not a problem.
Have you ever talked to your neighbors in an open and constructive way about your pet?
Common Questions About Dealing with Neighbors Who Complain About Your Dog
1. What should I do if my dog barks when I'm away?
Provide stimulation while you are away, such as stuffed toys, and consider taking walks or having company during the day.
2. Can the law force me to take my dog out of the house?
No, as long as it does not pose a risk to the health, safety or peace of other residents. However, in extreme cases, legal action may be taken.
3. Can the condominium prohibit my dog?
You cannot prohibit the ownership of animals, but you can define rules for movement, hygiene and coexistence in common areas.
4. Can I use rugs to reduce noise in the apartment?
Yes, it is one of the best ways to reduce noise and make coexistence more peaceful.
5. Is it worth talking to your neighbor in person?
Yes. Direct, polite and open dialogue can avoid major conflicts and show that you are willing to collaborate.