Ah crap. Here’s a situation I can do without.

New neighbour, and they have a shitty looking dog that won’t stop barking and growling at my two girls when they go out to play in the garden, and now they’re afraid to go out when it’s out. The fence is keeping them apart but they’re quite young so it frightens them.

I thought I’d try get off in the right foot with the new guy so I went around, welcomed him to the street, answered a few questions about where local amenities are and then asked if he could do something about the dog going for the kids. I can tell he doesn’t think it’s an issue though, as a week is on it’s still happening. So as it’s my boundary I’m going to replace the lattice fence with 7 foot high panels I’ve been keeping in storage since the storms last winter. It’ll still bark and grow at them but hopefully if they can’t see each other one another they will get used to it and loose interest. It’s a pity because we really got on with the people before him.

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hartfire

Sorry you're having such hassles with your new neighbor.
The proposed new fence sounds very expensive.

There could be cheaper solutions if you have the time.
For instance you could train the dog to ignore you and your kids - which would have the added benefit of helping your little ones learn how to overcome fear.

Start by going out to play with them on the side of your yard furthest from the dogs. (You may need to be prepared for several hours with different games, snacks, drinks and story books.) Keep the kids attention focused on you and the games and instruct them to ignore the dog. Keep playing until the dog gets bored, relax, and start ignoring you. As soon as the dogs relax, that's you cue to go back inside if you wish.

Do this every day if you can, until you notice that the dog relaxes more quickly each time; then bring your games a foot or two closer and repeat until he/she relaxes.

If you keep this up, eventually the kids will be able to go out at anytime and play anywhere in their own yard.

WintaTheAngle · 41-45, M

@hartfire you’re absolutely right but it’s my neighbours dog. Not mine.

hartfire

@WintaTheAngle Yes, I realise that.

Your neighbor could help by getting his dog another dog as a companion, by taking him out for at least two long walks a day, and by giving him enrichment, toys and activities to keep him busy. But I doubt he would want the effort and expense. If he's that surly, he's probably quite antisocial - more of a loner that most doggie peeps.

You're actually the only one in a position to use desensitization-training to teach the dog to ignore your kids. You ignore the dog and work with the kids - which is your right.

My guess is that your neighbor is ignorant about dog psychology and would not be able to recognize your strategy.

WintaTheAngle · 41-45, M

@hartfire I’d say you’re on the money there.