Research on dog attacks

Facts around Guide Dog attacks

The breed type responsible for the largest proportion of dog attacks were Bull breeds, who were responsible for nearly a third of all reported attacks (28%).   A large proportion of the attacks occurred when the owner was present.   

Proportionately more Labradors were attacked and the majority of victim dogs were male and that 51.4% were black in colour.  

71% of people involved in incidents thought that the attacks could have been prevented, just through awareness and proper control of their dogs. 



The incidence and effect of dog attacks on Guide Dogs stock Guide dogs are an essential mobility aid to blind and partially sighted people. Currently there are approximately 4500 working guide dogs in the UK which are supported by The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

In a retrospective survey, researchers identified 100 incidents of attacks on guide dogs by other dogs. These were reviewed in order to determine the number, severity and impact on the handler and dog, and the characteristics of the aggressors and victims.

During the study period there were more than three attacks reported each month with 61 per cent of attacks being upon dogs that were in harness and working with a guide dog owner or trainer. The majority of dogs that were attacked were male (62 per cent) and the Labrador breed and crossbred Golden retriever-Flat coated retriever breed were over-represented compared with the total guide dog population. Most attacks occurred in public places between 0900 h and 1500 h and the majority (61 per cent) of the attacking dogs were off the lead at the time of the attack. Thirty-eight percent of the attacking dogs were of the bull breed type which was over-represented compared with the proportion of this breed in the national population. Veterinary attention was sought after 41 per cent of attacks and in 19 per cent of cases there was injury to the handler or to a member of the public. The attacks were reported to have affected the working performance and character of the dog in 45 per cent of cases and two dogs were subsequently withdrawn from working as guides.

As a result of dog attacks, the guide dog owner may be without a guide for a period of time which may impact on their quality of life and mobility. This study highlights the importance of the guide dog as part of a working partnership upon which the guide dog owner is dependent.