Dog attacks or out-of-control dogs
Important information about dog attacks
We do not investigate dog-on-dog incidents (when a dog attacks another dog) as these do not fall under our statutory obligations.
Dog owners are advised to seek independent legal advice regarding civil action and may wish to contact Citizens Advice.
The police will continue to respond to incidents involving dog attacks on people under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.
It is a criminal offence for a person in charge of a dog to allow it to be dangerously out of control anywhere in England and Wales, whether or not in a public place.
Please note: If a dog has been dangerously out of control towards you or if you were under the impression you were going to be bitten, you should report this to Wiltshire Police on the non-emergency line 101.
If you believe you are in immediate danger, dial 999.
A dog may be considered dangerously out of control if:
- it attacks and injures a person or an assistance dog
- it causes a person to worry that it may injure them or an assistance dog, and the person in charge of the dog has no proper control of it
- it attacks livestock
If you require assistance with your own dog’s behaviour, a list of local registered dog trainers and behaviourists can be found on the Association of Pet Dog Trainer’s website.
For further information about controlling your dog in public, please see the Gov.uk website.
If your own dog has been attacked by an out-of-control dog you will need to take civil action against the dog's owner.
For advice, visit the Citizens Advice website.