Dog attacks soar across UK as new map reveals hardest-hit areas

The number of serious dog attacks in Devon and Cornwall has more than doubled since before the pandemic, reflecting a growing national concern over public safety and responsible pet ownership.

According to new figures released by Devon and Cornwall Police, there were 1,265 offences involving out-of-control dogs causing injury recorded in 2025. This equates to more than three incidents every day and represents a 4% increase from 1,219 cases in 2024. The upward trend has been consistent over recent years, with 968 attacks recorded in 2023 and 676 in 2022. In comparison, just 609 such incidents were reported in 2019, highlighting a dramatic rise since pre-pandemic levels.

This local trend mirrors the broader situation across England and Wales. Police forces collectively recorded at least 29,400 dog attacks causing injury in 2025—around 81 incidents per day or more than three every hour. This marks a 5% increase from 28,000 cases in 2024, continuing a steady climb from 27,000 in 2023 and 21,700 in 2022.

The data was obtained through Freedom of Information requests sent to police forces nationwide, although five forces did not provide responses. Among those that did, comparisons between 2019 and 2025 reveal a striking 80% increase in attacks—from 14,000 to 25,200 incidents.

In terms of raw numbers, the Metropolitan Police in London recorded the highest number of dog attacks in 2025 with 2,530 cases. Other forces with high figures include Greater Manchester (1,678), Lancashire (1,333), West Midlands (1,325), and Devon and Cornwall (1,265).

However, when population size is taken into account, some smaller regions report higher rates. Lincolnshire recorded the highest rate, with 94 incidents per 10,000 residents. Northamptonshire, Durham, and Cumbria also reported elevated rates compared to other areas.

Hospital data further supports the rising trend. In England, there were 10,905 A&E admissions due to dog bites in the year ending March 2025. While slightly lower than the 10,924 cases reported the previous year, it remains the second-highest figure on record and significantly higher than the 9,027 admissions in 2019/20.

Animal welfare experts have expressed concern over the continued increase in serious incidents. Dr Sam Gaines, Head of Companion Animals at the RSPCA, described the situation as “heartbreaking,” warning that current laws are failing to prevent dangerous behaviour and protect the public. She emphasized the need for a shift in focus away from breed-specific measures toward addressing the root causes of aggression.

In response, a government spokesperson highlighted existing measures, including restrictions on XL Bully dogs, stating that these are designed to improve public safety. However, they acknowledged that more action may be required, stressing the importance of responsible dog ownership and reviewing current regulations to better protect communities.

The rising number of dog attacks continues to spark debate over whether current legislation is sufficient, as calls grow for more effective strategies to address the issue nationwide.