An investigation into measures to reduce dog attacks and promote responsible ownership amongst dog owners with dog control issues in the UK

The overall aim of the project is to identify methods to reduce dog attacks and dog control issues as well as provide evidence-based recommendations to promote responsible dog ownership amongst owners with dog control issues. The project examined contemporary enforcement practice and also explored risk factors related to dog attacks. The project considered both primary and secondary data using a qualitative methodology to: identify what has been published on dangerous dog problems and the factors contributing to the risk of dog bites, strikes and attacks. Empirical research was conducted (primarily qualitative interviews and analysis of enforcement data) to establish (i) if the police and local authorities were using new anti-social behaviour powers and (ii) how effective they were in addressing dog control issues