Auckland is experiencing a significant increase in dog attacks, aggressive dog behaviour and roaming dog complaints.
From July 2023 to June 2024, Auckland Council received:
⚠️15,146 reports of roaming dogs
⚠️1,253 reports of dog attacks on people
⚠️1,593 reports of attacks on other animals.
Suburbs in the south of Auckland (in particular Manurewa, Ōtara and Papakura) saw the highest number of roaming dog reports, with significant numbers also seen in Henderson and Massey.
Many of these issues stem from irresponsible owners not caring for their dogs and letting them roam freely in public spaces - a small number of irresponsible people are making our public spaces unsafe for everyone and giving dog owners a bad name.
Animal Management is undertaking a range of initiatives including more enforcement officers, more shelter capacity to impound dangerous dogs, and initiatives to increase the level of desexed dogs.
But they can't do it alone and we can all contribute to a safer community so Auckland Council has put together a one-stop-shop for everything dog related. Whether you're need advice on dog safety for kids, exploring off-leash dog parks near you, or learning about dog bite prevention, check out https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/dogs/