Overview

• Postal workers endured an average of 42 dog attacks per week in 2024/25.
• These incidents resulted in 74 major injuries and over 2,700 lost workdays for Royal Mail staff.
• Under the Dangerous Dog Act, owners may face prosecution if their pets harm delivery workers, including bites through letterboxes, and warning signs do not remove legal responsibility.
• About a third of attacks occur at the front door, prompting experts to advise securing dogs in separate rooms or gardens before answering.
• Royal Mail deliveries take place between 7am and 4:30pm Monday–Saturday, defining the critical timeframe for pet containment.