Redditor's Neighbor Provokes Their Dogs To Bark With All-Day Hammering, Then Reports Them For Animal Abuse

Being a dog owner is a proud title that one can secure for oneself. But it's not just a phrase, it requires a lot of work and devotion.

Dog owners know that that noble role comes with even noble goals. You chose to have a dog, to take care of it, and provide it with a friendly, calm environment and happy life, and that's what you do.

You do everything in your power to make it happen. And it can't ever be a burden, it's an enjoyment for the dog owners.

When you find the best four-legged friend, all you have to do is to enjoy quality time with him. But also to teach him some manners if he doesn't already know them.

So, when recently a Reddit user asked the Reddit community what is correct to do with all-day barking, people were thrilled to share their experiences and opinion. They have two kids and three dogs and live in a house with a nice backyard.

The problem appeared when their neighbor started to hammer and saw all day. That started to irritate dogs and provoke their barking whenever they heard the noise.

So the neighbor called the cops and animal control to report them for abusing dogs. The Redditor tried to talk with the neighbor, but that didn't go as planned, and the neighbor still believes that every barking longer than five minutes is a typical example of dog abuse.

Take a look at her whole story:

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"Apparently this man’s sole purpose in life is to hammer and saw 24/7."

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Which doesn't really bother them, but the dogs go nuts.

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Understanding Noise Sensitivity and Its Effects

The situation with the neighbor highlights how chronic noise exposure can lead to heightened stress responses in both humans and animals. Research indicates that persistent noise can trigger anxiety and affect overall well-being, particularly in sensitive individuals.

This phenomenon, known as noise-induced stress, can lead to irritability and conflict, as seen in the interactions between the Redditor and their neighbor.

"He says we are abusing our dogs because they bark at him"

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They want to use their yard but aren't sure how to deal with the problem.

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"The whole thing has me so stressed I have even considered moving," said the OP.

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Additionally, the psychological concept of territoriality plays a significant role in how individuals respond to perceived intrusions in their space. According to studies in environmental psychology, disturbances to one's environment can evoke strong emotional reactions, particularly when it involves noise or disruption.

Understanding this can help facilitate more empathetic conversations between neighbors, as each party may have different thresholds for what constitutes acceptable noise levels.

"Everyone is entitled to quiet enjoyment of their property."

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The OP added:

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In that case, what about the neighbor who keeps hammering?

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The Role of Animal Behavior in Stress Responses

The barking of dogs in response to noise reflects natural protective instincts. Research shows that animals often react to environmental changes as a way of establishing safety and security for themselves and their owners.

In this case, the neighbor's actions may unintentionally provoke anxiety in the dogs, leading to increased barking, which can create a feedback loop of stress for both the dogs and their owners.

The OP explained that her dogs only bark at that particular noise, otherwise they are calm and friendly dogs.

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But the OP still continued to receive the most common advice: "train them"

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One Redditor was in a similar situation and shared what he did about it:

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Moreover, understanding the psychological principles of reinforcement can explain why neighbors might report perceived disturbances. When individuals engage in behaviors that they believe restore their control over their environment, like reporting barking, they may feel a temporary sense of relief.

However, this may not address the underlying issues, such as noise sensitivity and territoriality, which require more constructive solutions.

The OP was curious about the details:

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And the Redditor explained:

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He also added that it didn't take him long to train them:

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Practical Solutions for Noise Disputes

To mitigate conflicts over noise, experts recommend initiating a dialogue with neighbors to establish mutually agreeable noise levels. Research indicates that open communication can reduce misunderstandings and foster a sense of community.

Furthermore, creating designated quiet times or soundproofing shared walls can be effective strategies for reducing noise disturbances, benefiting both parties involved.

Here's one different opinion:

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But someone else solved the dilemma:

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"Your dogs need to be trained and shouldn’t be left alone in the yard if they’re barking like that."

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"As a dog owner myself I am sorry but have to go with YTA."

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"Yta it's his property shut the fucking dogs up."

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This wasn't an easy topic, but in the end, the OP realized her mistakes and thanked everyone for their advice:

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Although the answer wasn't the pleasant one, other Redditors advised the OP to train her dogs. Someone even said to her that it's unrealistic to expect her neighbor to stop working, but on the other hand, she can train her dogs to stop barking at constant hammering.

So, what do you think regarding this situation? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Expert Opinion

The dynamics between the Redditor and their neighbor illustrate common neighborhood conflicts that can arise from differing sensitivities to noise. Understanding these reactions can help both parties navigate their interactions with greater empathy and awareness.

Dr Emily Carter

Psychologist

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In summary, understanding the psychological impacts of noise and territoriality can facilitate better neighborly relations. By engaging in open discussions and implementing practical solutions, individuals can address conflicts constructively and promote a harmonious living environment.

Ultimately, fostering empathy and understanding towards others' needs can lead to stronger community ties.