Reporting a dog bite to your local authority

How to Report the Incident to Your Local Authority

Local councils have dedicated teams—often called Dog Wardens or Animal Welfare Officers—responsible for investigating dog attacks, monitoring dangerous dogs, and enforcing control measures. Reporting an incident promptly helps protect you and others by ensuring the authorities can take appropriate action.

1. Why Reporting Matters

• Ensures the dog’s behaviour is officially recorded.
• Allows the council to investigate and, where necessary, take enforcement action.
• Helps prevent further incidents involving the same dog.
• Supports your evidence if you later decide to pursue a legal claim.

2. What Councils Can Do

Depending on the circumstances, councils can:

• Issue warnings or fines to dog owners.
• Require owners to keep dogs muzzled or on a lead in public.
• Seize and assess dangerous dogs.
• Work with the police where criminal offences are suspected.

3. How to Report

• Visit your local council’s website and search for “dog warden” or “report a dangerous dog.”
• Most councils provide an online reporting form.
• Alternatively, you can phone your council’s Environmental Health or Public Protection team.

4. Helpful Links

• Find Your Local Council:
  https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council
• General Advice on Dangerous Dogs (GOV.UK):
  https://www.gov.uk/control-dog-public

5. Information to Provide

When making your report, be prepared to give:

• Date, time, and location of the incident
• Description of the dog and any identifying details
• Owner’s details (if known)
• Description of what happened
• Details of any injuries and medical treatment received

⚠️ Tip: Keep a copy of your report and any reference number provided by the council. This may be important if the matter progresses.