There is nothing more galling to responsible dog owners than the sight of a dog let loose to run on the streets every morning and night. There are several issues with the scenario:

1. The loose dog will frequently set off  barking of other dogs
2. Some of the loose dogs are not particularly friendly to humans
3. The owner is not complying with the leash law
4. The owner is not cleaning up their dog’s fecal deposits

Owner responsibility for their pets is key to resolving situations like this. There are several laws that can be enforced. However, if you are comfortable doing so, it can be enough to discuss the behavior with the offending pet owner and let them know that you know. If this doesn’t work, or you are uncomfortable, the enforcement of the laws by Seattle Animal Control is key. There are several relevant laws which are quoted (in italics) below from here:

Leash Law: The law states that it is unlawful for any owner of a domestic animal, except cats and pigeons, to allow it to run at large….

Noise Ordinance: If you are bothered by a continual howl of a chronic barker you should first, speak to the dog owner and let him/her know that you are disturbed by the barking. Try to work out a solution in a neighborly manner. Offer suggestions or alternatives which might reduce the noise. Allow the pet owner a little time to work out a solution. If the problem persists, call the Seattle Animal Shelter with the address of the owner, a description of the dog, the location of the dog on its property, and the time of day when the dog barks excessively. When the barking continues, your next course of action is through the municipal court system.

Scoop Law: Dogs roaming the city deposit thousands of pounds of this material in public areas each year. A “scoop law” was passed in Seattle in 1982 stating that it is unlawful for an owner to: A) Allow the accumulation of cat or dog feces in any open area of his/her property wherein dogs/cats are kept and fail to remove or dispose of feces at least once every 24 hours. B) Fail to remove the fecal matter deposited by his/her animal on public property before the owner leaves the immediate area.

An additional law which may be germane:

Licensing: Licensing your pet is the law. Seattle Municipal Code Section 9.25.050 requires that all cats, dogs, miniature goats, and potbelly pigs be licensed. Failure to license or renew your pet’s license could result in a $125 citation.

As noted above, a continually howling or barking dog is that dog’s owner’s responsibility, even though the loose dog’s owner may have caused the noise. Reporting the loose dog may require the loose dog’s owner address, unless Animal Control can catch the dog at large. To report an unleashed animal at large or excessive barking, or scoop law violations, or mistreatment, call Animal Control at (206) 386-7387. You can also report those problems (with the exception of cruelty) here. Be aware that online reports are only tended to from 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday.