UK Police Put Down Over 2,600 Dogs Since 2020 – Met Leads the Grim Toll
New data exposes a shocking rise in the number of dogs euthanised by UK police forces since September 2020. Out of 2,671 dogs destroyed, the Metropolitan Police alone accounted for 605 — over 20% of the total.
Dog Destruction Rates Soar — South Yorkshire Sees Nearly 300% Spike
Personal Injury Claims UK revealed some forces have seen dog destruction rates surge by up to 300% since 2021. The XL Bully topped the list of breeds put down, closely followed by the American Bulldog. This upward trend has sparked serious alarm about police handling of animal control.
Shockingly, the City of London Police reported zero dogs put down in the same period, highlighting a stark contrast in how different forces approach the issue. The Met blames their status as the largest UK police force for the higher figures.
Why Are Dogs Being Destroyed?
Most dogs are destroyed under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. Section 1 targets dogs bred for fighting, while Section 3 covers dogs dangerously out of control in public places. The practice has come under fire amid growing calls for humane alternatives.
Top 10 Police Forces Destroying Dogs Since 2020
- Metropolitan Police – 605
- South Yorkshire Police – 431
- Avon and Somerset Police – 400+
- Derbyshire Constabulary – 284
- manchester-police" title="Greater Manchester Police">Greater Manchester Police – 218
- Northumbria Police – 200+
- West Yorkshire Police – 149
- Essex Police – 137
- Humberside Police – 101
- Hertfordshire Constabulary – 64
South Yorkshire Police lead the pack with a staggering 292% increase in dog destruction since 2021. Across the UK, about 2.4 dogs are put down every single day — and those numbers might be even higher, as some forces failed to provide data.
Animal Rights Outcry: Calls for Review of Police Policy
The dramatic surge in dogs, especially XL and American Bulldogs, being destroyed has caused outrage among animal rights advocates and the public. Many are demanding a thorough review of police animal control policies to find more humane solutions and reduce unnecessary deaths.
