The UK dog population was as high as 13 million in 2019 – up to four million higher than previously estimated, research by rehoming and rescue charity Dogs Trust has revealed.
This means current levels are likely to be far higher, given that the pandemic led to more people seeking the companionship of a pet.
It’s estimated that 31% of households own at least one dog, the most popular pet in the UK.
The upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill will give tenants the right to have a pet in their rented property, though landlords can require their tenants to take out pet insurance or pay a reasonable cost towards landlord’s insurance.
Dr Kirsten McMillan, deputy head of research at Dogs Trust, said: “The UK is well known for being a nation of dog lovers, but it turns out we may have significantly underestimated how many dogs are out there by over four million!
“This inaccuracy can have serious implications as it affects important statistics like how many dogs of different breeds or sizes live in certain regions, how the dog population grows each year, and the overall trends in dog ownership.”
Telford and Darlington have the highest density of dogs, with eight for every 20 people.
The lowest are in six areas of London, covering postcode areas N, E, SW, WC, W and UB, where, for every 20 people, there was approximately one dog.
