Dear Kev –
“I’m hoping you might have some advice about a barking issue with my neighbor’s dog. Every time their German Shepherd is let outside, he immediately starts barking, and doesn’t stop. It can be 5 a.m., the middle of the day, or late at night. Rain or shine, it’s non-stop as soon as he steps out. Our houses are pretty close together, and when he’s in the backyard, he can see straight into a couple of our windows. Any movement inside seems to set him off even more. We have a dog too. Pete, our 5-year-old Golden Retriever. He’s calm, gentle, and thankfully doesn’t bark back. He mostly just watches in silence, although he once did try to pee on the neighbor’s dog through the fence. I’m not saying I condone it… but I understood the sentiment.
The neighbors themselves are very kind, and their dog knows us and our family. I used to say hello to him regularly, hoping some familiarity would help reduce the barking, but unfortunately, it hasn’t made a difference. My husband doesn’t find it as disruptive, but I work from home, and the barking has really started to affect my concentration and sleep. I’m not trying to start any issues with the neighbors. We like them. I’m just looking for a peaceful solution. Is there anything I can put on the fence, or any other method you’d recommend, to help reduce the barking?” – Monica from Seattle, Washington.
Hi Monica –
Thanks for writing in…and please give Pete a pat on the head for being such a mellow gentleman. Golden Retrievers don’t always get credit for their restraint, but it sounds like he’s handling the situation with quiet dignity (and the occasional strategic fence protest).
What you’re describing with your neighbor’s German Shepherd is actually pretty common, especially in high-alert breeds. Shepherds are natural protectors, and when they’re left outside with visual access to windows, yards, or passing squirrels, they often feel like it’s their job to sound the alarm. It’s not aggression. It’s overstimulation.
Here are a few approaches that can help calm the chaos, without putting stress on your neighborly relationship:
1. Block the Visual Triggers
Since a lot of the barking seems to happen when he sees movement through your windows, try installing a privacy barrier on your side of the fence. Options include weatherproof outdoor fabric, reed fencing, or tall planters with dense greenery. Even a partial visual block can help reduce his sense of needing to “respond” to what’s happening on your side.
2. White Noise or Window Coverings
Inside your home, consider using sheer curtains or white noise machines, especially in rooms where the dog has a line of sight. This can help mute both the visuals and the sound, giving you some peace during the day (and early mornings).
3. Consider a Friendly Conversation
It sounds like you already have a good rapport with your neighbors, which is great. A gentle, honest conversation might go a long way. Something like, “We totally understand he’s a protective pup, but we’re having a hard time with the barking, especially early in the morning. Do you think there’s anything we could try together to help ease things for everyone?”
This keeps things constructive and shows you’re open to solutions, not complaints.
4. Dog-Safe Deterrents
Some people find success with motion-activated devices, like ultrasonic deterrents or sprinklers. These give dogs a gentle, unexpected cue to pause. If you go this route, make sure anything you use is humane, non-harmful, and won’t agitate your own dog Pete in the process.
In the long run, the barking may not stop entirely, but with the right environmental changes, or even a canine behavior specialist, you can likely reduce the frequency and intensity. And with Pete setting a great example, who knows. Maybe the neighbor’s dog will start taking a few notes.
Hang in there, Monica. You’re not alone in this. And you’re handling it with care and patience, which already makes a big difference.
Have a Peet’s Coffee on me!
Kevin
Petworks Co-Founder Kevin Kinyon is a life-long animal lover who works tirelessly to improve the lives of pets and their parents. Human and animal qualities he values most are integrity, humor, and empathy.
