UK dog population may be millions more than estimated

We are a nation of dog lovers and new research we’ve produced, working with the University of Exeter and the University of Leeds, suggests that the UK dog population may have been underestimated by up to four million.

Dogs are the most popular pet within the United Kingdom, with 31% of households owning at least one pooch. But while previous population estimates - including those based on public surveys - put the population between 9 million and 11.5 million in 2019, our new findings based on the same period reveal that the population may have been nearer to 13 million. 

Previously, estimating the total dog population in the UK was challenging due to a lack of data. We collaborated with researchers from the University of Leeds and the University of Exeter to combine and model data from 18 diverse sources - including a breed registry, an academic institution, veterinary organisations, pet insurance companies, and animal welfare charities. This helped us create a more accurate and complete picture of our canine companions.

Regional dog hotspots

This landmark study is the most comprehensive review of dog population ever conducted in the UK, possibly the world. As well as showing us there were more dogs than previously thought, it also revealed the areas of the country with the greatest ratio of dogs to people. The study found Telford and Darlington to be the dog hotspots of the UK, with eight pups for every 20 people. 

Compared to people, the lowest densities of dogs were reported for six areas of London, covering postcode areas N, E, SW, WC, W and UB - here, for every 20 people, there was approximately one dog.

83% of dogs called England home, with the South East and North West regions being the most dog-packed areas. 9.1% of the UK's dogs were found in Scotland, with South Scotland and Lothian as the dog hotspots north of the border.

Meanwhile, Wales was home to 5.8% of the UK's doggy population, with South and West Wales being the most populated. Completing the picture, Northern Ireland was home to 2.1% of the UK's dog population.

This new study has been designed in a way that means the dog population of the UK can be closely monitored over time, making it possible to track shifts in breed popularity and monitor the welfare implications of these changes. This is a game-changer when it comes to understanding our furry friends and ensuring they receive the care they need.