City of Darwin is inviting Darwin dog owners to Barking Matters, a free one-hour workshop designed to help owners better understand barking behaviour and learn practical ways to work with their dogs.
The workshop will be held online on Wednesday 26 August from 5.30pm to 6.30pm.
Delivered in partnership with Pawsitive K9 Behaviour, Barking Matters is designed for anyone wanting to better understand why dogs bark, what their behaviour may be telling them and how owners can respond in a positive and practical way.
Lord Mayor Peter Styles said barking could be challenging for dog owners and their neighbours, but understanding the behaviour was an important first step.
"Dogs bark for many different reasons and understanding what is behind that behaviour can make a big difference for both the dog and its owner," Mr Styles said.
"Barking Matters gives dog owners practical information they can use to better understand their dog and work towards managing unwanted barking.
"City of Darwin's free pet behaviour workshops are delivered in a mix of online and in-person sessions, giving pet owners the flexibility to participate in a way that suits them.
"These workshops are a great example of City of Darwin supporting responsible pet ownership and helping create a safe, happy and harmonious community for people and pets," he said.
The Barking Matters workshop is part of City of Darwin's broader program of free pet behaviour workshops delivered in partnership with Pawsitive K9 Behaviour.
Workshops cover topics including leash pulling, fence rushing, anxiety and aggression, preparing for a new pet, and helping pets cope with loud noises.
The next workshop after Barking Matters is Don't Bite, Be Polite, on Wednesday 23 September 2026.
2026-27 workshop schedule
- Barking Matters - 26 August 2026 (online)
- Don't Bite, Be Polite - 23 September 2026 (in-person)
- Barking Matters - 21 October 2026 (in-person)
- Noise Phobic - 25 November 2026 (online)
- Don't Bite, Be Polite - 24 February 2027 (in-person)
- Barking Matters - 24 March 2027 (online)
- Don't Bite, Be Polite - 28 April 2027 (in-person)
- Life with Pets - 26 May 2027 (online)
- Noise Phobic - 16 June 2027 (in-person)
Bookings are essential and can be made by visiting https://pawsitivek9behaviour.com.au/index.php/book-now
