Can You be Evicted for Dog Barking?

You can be evicted for dog barking if the barking is causing a nuisance and disturbing the other tenants. What exactly nuisance barking entails varies by location. In some locales, city regulations may define it as 30 seconds of barking. Other places may not be so specific. It’s also important to note the wording on the lease. Even if it doesn’t specifically mention dog barking, it likely mentions noise and, of course, barking would be included in that.

Avoid Getting Evicted for Dog Barking 

Normally, the only time your landlord is going to be concerned about your dog barking is if another tenant complains. This makes sense, as your landlord has to ensure a comfortable, peaceful environment for all of his tenants.

The landlord has great discretion in how to deal with such complaints. If you’re lucky enough to have a landlord that is a dog lover, he may be more patient. 

Dogs bark and you won’t be able to stop it completely. That being said, part of being a good neighbor is finding a way to stop excessive barking. This could include: 

  • Sending the dog to doggy daycare rather than leaving him home alone. 
  • Crating him (if he is crate trained) or closing him in one room when you’re gone, so he won’t notice triggers such as someone walking by the window.
  • Playing classical music or keeping the TV on to drown out trigger noises and to calm your dog.
  • Talking to animal trainer or behaviorist for advice about how to curb barking. 

    While you work on correcting the behavior, here are some steps you can take to avoid trouble with your landlord:

    • Talk to the Complaining Neighbor: Tell him you’re sorry, that you’re working on it, and ask for patience.
    • Talk to the Landlord: Tell your landlord that you’re aware of the issue and explain to him what steps you’re taking to correct it.
    • Know Your Rights: If it comes down to you being evicted, he can’t just show up and kick you out or say you must immediately get rid of your dog. The landlord has to go through the proper eviction process. Know what that means in your state. 

      Some people end up having to rehome their dog over such an issue, but that should be a last resort. If you can’t find a way to control the barking, then moving may be the best solution. Ask your landlord for more time to find a new place and consider renting a small house rather than an apartment.

      If that’s not possible and rehoming becomes a necessity, you can find helpful resources on websites like Rehome where you can create a profile for your pet, get advice about screening adopters, and more. 

      How Long Does It take a Dachshund to Get Used to a New Home?

      It’ll typically take a dachshund between one and three months to get used to a new home. Of course, there are always special cases and various factors you’ll need to consider. For example, you’ll find that puppies tend to adapt to their new home far more quickly, often in a matter of weeks. With older dogs, it often takes longer. After all, they’ve spent more time with their previous owners. However, most dogs will feel at home in a new location within a couple of months.

      Naturally, you’ll want to do everything you can to make your new dachshund feel at home when they arrive. By following some simple tips, it can help to make their transition to your home easier. Let’s look at some of those tips to see how they could help you with your new dog.

      Start Slowly

      She’s going to be stressed when you bring her into a new home with new people. It’s natural, and that means that she might be a little skittish in the beginning. Take things slow and expect that there could be some setbacks here and there. Don’t pressure her, and don’t overwhelm her with too many new people all at once.

      Personal Space

      Make sure you new dog has some personal space where she can spend time on her own if she wants. This could be something as simple as her own pillow in the living room or the bedroom.

      Be Prepared for Accidents and Other Issues

      No matter how well you’re taking care of her, there’s always the chance that she might have a few accidents when she’s getting used to her new home. Be patient, and don’t worry. It can be cleaned, and it will pass. You might also find that she’s not eating as much in the beginning. This is typically because she’s just getting used to the new space, and her appetite should be back soon enough. If it isn’t, you can schedule an appointment with the vet. In some cases, she might try to escape the house. Be careful when opening doors, and always make sure she has her collar with her new address.

      Start a Routine

      One of the best things you can do is get her set up on a new routine on the first day that she arrives. Have a schedule for walking, heading out to the bathroom, and food. By setting up a schedule, it will help her get used to her new life with you and your family more easily.

      Research

      It’s also a good idea to be thorough in your rehome_research when you’re adopting a dog, whether it’s through a platform like Rehome or through a shelter. You want to know as much about the dachshund as possible before adopting. For example, if she doesn’t get along well with children, you wouldn’t want to adopt her if you have kids in the house. The more you know about her, the easier it will be to determine whether she’s the right fit for your home or not.

      How to Get a Cat to Like a Dog: Tips and Instructions

      We’ve all heard the euphemism “fight like cats and dogs,” but when it comes to canines and felines involved, we know that it can be a gross exaggeration. The internet provides plenty of proof of dogs raising kittens and cats snoozing on their dog pals, blind to the species difference. The reality is that all cats and dogs usually lie somewhere in the middle. Dogs used to be predators, so you can excuse your cat for being wary of this new, furry roommate. It’s instinct.

      That being said, you can’t just let your new dog prance into your cat’s domain and get up in their face. That’s a recipe for disaster. But how do you get those two different species to coexist under the same roof? That’s what we’re here to help with and we consulted Pam Johnson-Bennett, a cat behavior expert and author who has written eight books about cats, including the groundbreaking Think Like a Cat. Johnson-Bennett runs Cat Behavior Associates, LLC, a private veterinarian-referred behavior company in Nashville. She helps shed some light on the introduction process and what to do when things aren’t going according to plan.

      How can I help my cat get along with my dog?

      First and foremost, it’s important to give your cat some grace and be patient, especially if your cat hasn’t been socialized with other species before. Introducing dogs and cats is easier if your cat was around dogs when they were a kitten. So, if your cat has never met a dog before in its entire life, it’s natural for your cat to be afraid and defensive.

      • Your kitty will need some time to adjust. Ensuring they have some of the same freedom and routines as they had before the pup will help the adjustment.
      • Give your kitty full run of the house at night. No doubt, as a cat parent, you’re used to them zooming around the house at 5 a.m. — they’re nocturnal and it’ll help reduce their stress levels if they’re able to get their energy out freely.
      • Dedicate one-on-one time with your cat. Your new pup will take up more of your time than usual, especially because you’re trying to get them adjusted to their new home, but it’s crucial to spend time with your cat — without your dog in the room. It’s like having a new younger sibling in the house; the eldest still wants time to hang out with their parents.

      Can cats and dogs live in the same household?

      Yes, cats and dogs can live in the same household, but it will be a big adjustment for both parties (especially your cat) and a time and effort commitment for pet parents. “Cats and dogs can be great friends, but it’s essential to do a safe and positive introduction,” Johnson-Bennett says. “Some dogs who have been allowed to chase small animals may chase the cat and that will create fear and put the cat in danger. Before deciding to add another pet, make sure to take time to evaluate your current pet’s personality and needs so you can determine if the addition will benefit your resident pet’s life and if you have the time to do the proper training.”

      How to Introduce Cats to Dogs

      The first meeting is like a first impression during a job interview or first date. It’s very important. If it’s bungled or goes badly, it might take your cat a long time to warm up to your dog — and even then, they might not feel totally at ease. We highly recommend following these steps to introduce your cat to a new dog:

      1. Keep your cat and your new dog separate at first.

      “The first step is to set the dog up in a separate room as a sanctuary so they can adjust to this totally unfamiliar environment,” Johnson-Bennett says. “This also gives you time to bond and get to know the dog. When you feel the dog has comfortably settled in, you can begin a slow, safe, and positive introduction to the cat.”

      When a new dog is being introduced in a house where your cat is already comfortable, your cat may feel as if their home is being infringed on. “The cat needs to know that their territory is safe so keep the dog in a confined area as you do the training and introduction.” (If a dog is the current resident, you should confine the cat first instead of the dog.)

      This might involve rearranging your space a bit to accommodate this transition. In order for your cat to feel as secure as possible in the home, there should be rooms where the dog is not allowed in and places where the dog can’t reach the cat. “The home should be set up so the cat always has safe areas that are dog-free zones,” Johnson-Bennett says. “This includes the litter box area, sleeping area and feeding station. You don’t want the dog sticking a nose in the litter box and disturbing the cat, so ensure the litter box area is safe. An easy way to do that is with a baby gate with a small opening in it for the cat to get through. A cat tree is also a good investment so the cat always has an elevated area to escape for safety.”

      We also recommend feeding the cat and dog at the same time with the door in between them. This will give them time to get used to each other’s scents and associate them with a positive experience.

      2. Introduce them through a barrier.

      If your cat is still hiding, introduce them through a glass door, window, or gated barrier. The cat will feel more secure and it’ll allow them to observe the dog safely without fear.

      “The cat must feel comfortable being visible,” she says. “If the cat is so scared that they’re hiding under the bed or in the closet, then you need to go more slowly. What’s important is that the cat, throughout the entire introduction process, always has the freedom to leave the room, climb to an elevated spot, or hide. Having that control is critical to reducing the cat’s stress.”

      3. Begin controlled face-to-face meetings.

      The key word here is controlled. Don’t let an off-leash pup approach your cat — they’ll be scared and won’t forget the experience. “When you first start the introduction process, the dog should be on a leash so you can control their movements,” Johnson-Bennett says. “Reward the dog when they focus on you and don’t stare at the cat. If you just let the dog run up to the cat, kitty will surely give a swipe and run in fear. Control the movements of the dog and teach that a relaxed body posture will be rewarded.”

      4. Give them a bit more freedom.

      When your cat seems at ease and your dog continues to remain in a calm position, after several sessions, you can drop the dog’s leash, but keep it within arm’s reach and give your cat an escape route.

      What does “at ease” look like for a cat? “I look for a relaxed posture,” Johnson-Bennett says. “The cat may not want to snuggle up next to the dog but if kitty is comfortable enough to not stare endlessly and can engage in normal behaviors, such as napping, grooming, eating, or playing, then that’s a huge step in the right direction.”

      But just because the introduction is finished doesn’t mean that your pets are the best of friends yet. “Don’t let the cat and dog be together unsupervised until the training has been completed and you are 100 percent certain both animals are safe together.”

      What is a cat safe zone?

      “A [cat] safe zone is any location that is essentially dog-free,” Johnson-Bennett says. “During the introduction period it’s important to provide the cat with areas where they can get away from the dog. A cat tree, window perch, litter box in a room with a baby gate, elevated or separate feeding station, undisturbed napping areas, and so on, are critical. Even after the cat and dog become best buddies, there are areas where the cat can always go undisturbed.”

      Also make sure that the cat’s food is secure — cats don’t like sharing food and may become territorial if they find the dog sniffing around their food and water bottles.

      FAQ

      How long does it take for a cat to get used to a dog?

      Don’t put pressure on your animals to conform to a specific timeline. If you’re already a cat parent, you know that cats do things when they want to do things and if anything, will deliberately do what a person tells them not to do. You’re only going to get unfairly frustrated toward your pets.

      “There is no set time for when/if a cat and dog will get along,” Johnson-Bennett says. “Much of it depends on how the animals were socialized, their ages, past experiences, and the training method used.”

      Should I consult a professional if the problems persist?

      If you don’t feel that the relationship is progressing smoothly, a behaviorist or trainer may be able to help you take a step back and assess the situation. “Identify what specifically is causing fear or is creating a roadblock in the relationship so you can adjust the environment or tweak the training accordingly,” Johnson-Bennett says. “The two biggest mistakes I see pet parents make are that they rush the process and they punish [them] for unwanted behavior. The approach to take is to go gradually and give them a reason to like each other.”

      Consulting a professional can help keep you on track. “There is nothing more important than the safety of both animals,” Johnson-Bennett says. “If you are worried that one or both will get injured, or if you see serious aggression, then you need to separate them immediately. Your veterinarian can refer you to a professional trainer or certified behavior expert.”

      What if my cat still refuses to accept the dog?

      If you sought out a professional and it did not help (or you are unable to make the investment in helping your cat with their behavior problems) you may need to consider rehoming. Rehoming your new dog to a family that can better address these needs may be a very kind and responsible choice. Rehome is a peer-to-peer adoption service that allows pet parents to post their pets on Adopt a Pet to be seen by millions of potential adopters.


      Alicia Kort is a writer and editor living in Brooklyn. She’s currently the senior commerce editor at Apartment Therapy. She’s been published in StyleCaster, Electric Literature, Newsweek, Interview, Brooklyn magazine and more. In her free time, she runs, reads, and spends time with her dog-nieces, Maya and Lady, and her cat-niece, Pepper.  

      What Is A Natural Sedative For A Dog?

      Natural sedatives for dogs, like Rescue Remedy, are usually made from herb and flower extracts such a chamomile and lavender. Pheromones and calming products are also natural ways to soothe an anxious dog. These natural options are good things to try if you do not want to jump right to prescription medication, but always talk to your vet before giving your dog any treatment.

      What to Know Before You Try Natural Sedatives 

      While there is not much risk to using calming shirts and collars, the same may not be true for herbal supplements and other homeopathic sedatives. Before giving those to your dog:

      • Check with your vet to make sure the product is safe. This is especially important if the dog has a medical condition.
      • Read independent reviews to see what others are saying about the products.
      • Have your pet’s blood tested to ensure his liver is functioning properly. If not, the supplements could harm your pet. 

      What if Natural Sedatives Don’t Work? 

      If natural remedies don’t work to relieve your dog’s anxiety, there are other options including:

      • Talking to your vet about prescription medication.
      • Considering behavioral modification with an animal behaviorist.
      • Sending your pup to doggy daycare.
      • Ensuring your pet gets more exercise.

      No one solution for anxiety will work for every dog, but there is something that will work for most. Your dog deserves to get help—and you deserve the peace of mind that comes from knowing your pet is safe and happy while you’re away. 

      Do Dogs Carry Tetanus?

      Dogs can carry tetanus, but there is no available tetanus shot for dogs. If you are bitten by a dog and do not have a current tetanus shot, you should get one. While the disease is rare in dogs, it’s still smart to get a shot following a bite just in case the dog is carrying the disease. For dogs with tetanus, the prognosis is mixed and depends on the severity of the condition.

      What is Tetanus? 

      Tetanus is caused by a toxin called clostridium tetani. The disease can be found in dogs, but it more commonly affects humans and horses. Tetanus affects the nerves, brain, and spinal cord, and can be fatal.

      There are two kinds of tetanus: 

      • Localized Tetanus: This is the more common, and easier to treat, type of tetanus. Dogs may have muscle stiffness closest to the wound. Tremors are also possible. In some cases, localized tetanus will become generalized tetanus.
      • Generalized Tetanus: Dogs with generalized tetanus will experience stiff muscles throughout the body. In severe cases pets’ limbs become so still that they cannot stand. Additionally, facial muscles may be affected and dogs may become unable to swallow. 

      Treating Tetanus in Dogs 

      Antitoxins, antibiotics, and intensive nursing care are among the treatment protocols for tetanus in dogs. Even with early intervention, the prognosis is mixed with survival rates of 50% to 90%. Dogs with localized tetanus have a better chance for recovery as do pets who begin receiving treatment early.

      Though rare, dogs can carry tetanus, and they can pass it to humans. If bitten, be sure your treatment includes a tetanus shot just to be on the safe side. 

      How Do You Stop a Dog from Barking?

      You can stop a dog from barking at inopportune times by finding the stimulus of the barking and working to eliminate it. It is important to note that for dogs, barking is simply how they communicate, so seeking to stop barking entirely shouldn’t be the goal. Instead, isolate the barking that you find problematic, such as barking when company comes over or when the dog is left alone, and seek to address that specifically. Once you pinpoint the stimulus of the problem barking, it will be easier to develop a solution.

      Why Dogs Bark 

      Dogs use their voices to get something they want, to express themselves, to sound an alarm, or simply out of boredom. The solution to excessive dog barking depends on why they are barking. Sometimes, it’s easy to figure out, such as when there is a knock on the door. Whether the reason for the barking is clear or not, there are some basic techniques you can try to curb excessive barking.

      Eliminate the Reason for Barking 

      If you know what causes the barking, try simply removing that stimulus. For example, if your dog barks at people walking by, shut the blinds. If he barks at outside noise, try putting on some soothing music. This is a very simple solution that may not work for your dog, but it is worth trying.

      Barking for Attention: Don’t Give In 

      Many dogs bark simply because it’s a way to get your attention. The problem is that if you give him what he wants, he’ll continue to bark. Instead, ignore your barking dog and then lavish him with attention once he quiets down.

      Try More Exercise 

      Dogs who are bored are often quite vocal. Make sure your dog is getting plenty of daily exercise. Also, try giving him interactive dog toys that make him work for a treat.

      The bottom line is that barking is normal, but there are ways to curb problematic barking. If DIY methods don’t work, a chat with an animal behaviorist can put you on the right path. 

      How Can You Tell If Your Cat Has Anxiety?

      You can tell if your cat has anxiety if he exhibits destructive behavior, hiding, aggression, changes in mood, or fails to use the litter box. Other behaviors include panting, excessive grooming, refusing to eat, and vocalizing. Of course, these signs can also be present in a cat that doesn’t have anxiety, so it’s important to know what is normal for your cat so you’ll be able to spot a potential problem.

      What Causes Cat Anxiety?  

      Cats, general speaking, are not as adaptable as most dogs. That means even a small change can cause major anxiety. Adding a pet to the family, a new baby, moving to a new home, or even just relocating his favorite cat condo can be more than your cat can take, and anxiety can set in.

      Some cats, like some dogs, also experience separation anxiety, which can be traumatic for both the cat and the owner. 

      Ways to Alleviate Your Cat’s Anxiety 

      Here are a few things to do if your cat has anxiety:

      Make a Vet Appointment

      In some cases, what looks like anxiety can actually be symptoms of a medical condition. It’s always wise to rule that out first, so visit the vet for a thorough checkup. 

      Change the Environment

      Add cat condos, perches, and window seats to provide interesting views and new vantage points for your cat to enjoy.

      Provide Lots of Toys

      Puzzle feeders and other toys can help keep your cat’s mind occupied and prevent boredom, thus alleviating anxiety.

      Try Calming Products

      Calming collars, diffusers, sprays, and other products are effective methods of reducing anxiety in some cats.

      You can also get advice from an animal behaviorist, and this may be necessary if the anxiety is moderate to severe. Ignoring the issue won’t make it go away, so start looking for the solutions to alleviate your cat’s anxiety today whether that means a DIY method or getting professional help. 

      How Long Does It take a Pomeranian to Get Used to a New Home?

      It will typically take a Pomeranian about one to three months to get used to a new home and fully adjust. Of course, the time it takes for a dog to get accustomed will vary from one dog to the next. After all, they all have their own personalities and quirks. Generally, puppies and younger dogs will adjust faster. Older dogs will have a more difficult time because they’ve spent so much of their life with someone else and in a different home.

      Fortunately, you can do some things that will make the process easier on yourself and your new Pomeranian.

      Give Him Time to Adjust 

      The first thing that you need to do is think about what your new dog is going through when they come into a new home. It’s a foreign environment with new smells, new people, and what they might even perceive as dangers. You need to give them time to adjust and get used to you and your family. This means that you shouldn’t have a lot of people coming to visit to look at your new dog the first week or so that they’re in your home. They need time to feel comfortable.

      Create a Routine

      A good way to help your new dog start to feel more comfortable is to create a routine from day one. This means they should be fed and walked on a schedule. Having a routine is good for a dog, and it can help them to adjust more quickly.

      Be Prepared for Escape Attempts

      Keep in mind that your new Pomeranian might not feel entirely at home for a while. If they see an open and unguarded door, they might bolt for it. They might try to escape your yard, too. Make sure that you’re careful whenever you’re going in and out of the house. Make sure that he has a collar with a name and address, and that you get him chipped as soon as possible.

      Make Him Part of the Family

      Your Pomeranian needs to feel like he’s part of the family. Make sure that you’re providing plenty of playtime and cuddles. Let him know that he’s safe and loved, and he’ll start to come around before you know it.

      If You Adopted from Someone You Know

      Something you should keep in mind if you adopted your Pomeranian from someone that you know is that this person shouldn’t come around anytime soon. Even if they’re a friend or a family member, it’s better if you go and meet them somewhere instead. If the previous owner comes over to the house, your dog might think that they’re going to go home with their previous owner. This leads to confusion, and it can make the process of adjusting to the new home take much longer.

      Ultimately, what you need is patience when you’re bringing a new dog into your home. Give them some time to get used to being a part of the family and before you know it, you’ll feel like they were always there. 

      How Do You Get a Stray Dog to Come to You?

      You can get a stray dog to come to you by calling the dog to you, offering treats (be ready with a slip lead), and opening your car’s back door to allow her or him to jump in. There is no one trick that will work for every animal, but there are good ways to start.

      Catching a Stray Dog 

      Before you consider catching a stray dog, make sure you are comfortable doing so. If the dog does not seem friendly or you are feeling uncomfortable, do NOT try to catch him. If you are comfortable attempting to catch the dog, follow these tips:

      • Call the dog and see if you can get him to follow you. Attempt to get the dog into a store or yard where you can close the door without having to grab the dog suddenly.
      • If the dog is running from you, chasing him isn’t the best idea. You’re not likely to outrun him, so chasing is a waste of time and may scare the dog. If you have a box or bag of treats, shaking it may be enough to get his attention. Then you can drop some treats on the ground and step back to give him room. Do it again, this time staying a little closer. Continue until you’re close enough to grab him.
      • If you are in a car, you can open the car’s back door and see if the dog will jump in. If the pup is an owned dog, there’s a good chance he will jump right in. 

      If you are unsuccessful in catching the dog or are not comfortable trying, you can also call animal control or a local rescue group near you that specializes in such dog rescues. It’s a good idea to find this information before you need it. Then, when you find a hard-to-catch stray, you’ll know who to call. 

      The Stray Dog Supply Kit 

      Thank you for your determination to help stray dogs. Many people keep a kit in their car that will be ready to go when they run into a wandering dog. Keep the following items in your kit:

      • A can of wet food
      • A bottle of water
      • A bag of treats
      • A slip lead
      • Collapsible bowls
      • Phone numbers of rescues and animal control

      Whether the dog is lost, was stolen, or was abandoned by his owners, you may be the best chance of getting him the help he needs. 

      Can You Call The Police On A Barking Dog?

      You can call the animal control department of your local police on a barking dog, but it should only be used as a last resort for excessive barking. If your neighbor’s dog barks a lot, it can be annoying, but you should address it with a measured response rather than going straight to the law. There should be a few steps between the dog barking and you calling the police.

      How to React to a Barking Dog 

      When a responsible pet owner’s dog starts barking, they either get the barking to stop or bring the dog inside—but not everyone is a responsible pet owner. Some people have no problem letting their dog bark all night. While that is inconsiderate, you need to ask yourself if it’s worth having an ice-cold relationship with your neighbor. Here are some things to do before calling the cops:

      Ask Yourself If The Barking Is Really Excessive

      When you live in close proximity to neighbors, you can’t expect total silence. Whether it’s a kid banging on his drums or an especially enthusiastic game of kickball in the street, some noise is part of life in a populated area. With that in mind, consider if the amount of barking is really worth involving the police or animal control. 

      Know The Law

      Laws regarding dogs barking vary by location, so take the time to learn the law where you live. You could bring a copy of this information along when you talk to your neighbor. Knowing the law can also help you decide if calling the police is really the route you want to take. For example, if you learn the homeowner will get a $500 fine and possibly have the dog removed from her home, would you still want to call? 

      Talk To Your Neighbor

      Your neighbor might not realize how her dog’s barking is affecting you. Approach her in a polite manner and tell her how it’s affecting you, i.e. you can’t sleep at night, it’s hard to have a conversation on the phone, etc…

      If the neighbor seems receptive, offer ideas about how to reduce the barking such as letting the dog spend more time indoors or providing extra walks and lots of playtime. If she’s not receptive, tell her that if things don’t change, you may have no choice but to call animal control.
      Police and animal control should not be used as a weapon against your neighbors. Instead, calling them should be reserved for when all else has failed or when the dog appears to be in distress.