Vets report rise in aggressive behaviour from "pandemic puppies"
Our Take the Lead investigation looks into stats from a new British Veterinary Association survey
Half of vets across the UK are reporting seeing a rise in the number of dog owners worried about their pet's aggressive behaviour.
Stats, seen by our Take the Lead investigation, show puppies bought during the coronavirus pandemic made up the vast majority of cases when the age of the animal was known.
Dogs needing treatment after attacks by other dogs
Almost 1 in 4 (24%) vets also reported an increase in the number of pets they had treated in the last 12 months who were injured as a result of aggressive behaviour by dogs.
EXCLUSIVE: Three children treated in hospital every day for serious injuries caused by dogs
The British Veterinary Association says lockdown could be behind an increase in potentially dangerous behaviour.
It is estimated that around 3.2 million households in the UK acquired a pet in the first year of the pandemic, with the proportion of people owning a dog increasing when compared to early 2020.
Concern about "pandemic puppies"
British Veterinary Association’s Senior Vice President Justine Shotton said:
“Vets and animal charities have been raising concerns around the long-term impacts of the pandemic puppy boom, when owners were unable to access adequate training and socialisation opportunities that are so important for development in the first few months of their lives.
READ: The number of people hospitalised by dog bites has doubled in the last 25 years
“At the British Veterinary Association, we urge pet owners who are concerned about their dog’s behaviour to talk to a vet, who will be able to check for any underlying medical issues that could be causing issues, give advice and refer to an ABTC-accredited veterinary behaviourist.
"Don’t delay seeking help, as poor behaviour can deteriorate and can become harder to deal with as a dog matures.
Advice to anyone buying a puppy
The Take the Lead investigation is charting the rise of dog attacks on people and other animals.
It comes as people who work within the animal sector seek to find new ways of tackling the rise, through behavioural change in owners, or through new legislation.
Dr Justine says anyone thinking about buying a puppy should take the following advice on board:
”We continue to urge the importance of always doing proper research and using the Puppy Contract to make sure you’re buying a healthy puppy from a responsible source.
"Make sure that your puppy has lots of positive opportunities for socialisation with humans of all ages, other animals, different environments, various noises and everyday experiences, including visits to your vet practice.”