Our advice

If you've got a problem with a nearby dog, try to sort it out with the owners - if you can. As with any dispute between neighbours, the best solution is the one where everybody agrees. But sadly, that's not always possible.

... for owners

• Talk to the neighbours before you get a dog.
• Make sure it gets plenty of exercise in specified "dog-exercise" areas.
• Make sure it can't get out of your property but can run around and has access to food and fresh water while you're out.
• If you're out during the day, check with neighbours about barking or other problems.
• If the dog barks at night, keep it inside.
• If neighbours complain, don't get defensive. Be prepared to discuss solutions.
• Don't leave small children alone with your dog. Just because it has never attacked anyone, doesn't mean it won't.
• Don't mix dogs and food. If you're having a barbecue, make sure the dog is restrained somewhere else on your property. In one tragic incident, a child was bitten in the face by their own dog because the dog wanted the food they were eating.

... for non-owners

• Teach your children how to behave around dogs or ask the school to run a dog education programme.
• If a dog is by itself, leave it alone, even if it's tied up.
• Ask the owner, before you or your kids touch or play with a dog.
• Don't eat food around dogs.
• Don't treat dogs or dog owners like pariahs. Most owners are responsible people and most dogs won't harm you unless badly scared or hurt themselves.

More help

• Local councils have pamphlets and website information on dog by-laws.
• Department of Internal Affairs www.dia.govt.nz
• Dog Control Act - you can access the full text of the Act at New Zealand Legislation