A NEW STUDY by a pet insurer has revealed that Chester and Wrexham are among the UK's top 10 dog-loving cities.

The study by Waggle compared 2023 gov.uk data on dog population against the human population of each city that houses at least 100,000 people to discover where the dog ownership rate is at its highest.

Topping the list is Swindon, with a ratio of 316.48 dogs per 1,000 humans.

Following closely behind is Chester, boasting 274.47 dogs per 1,000 humans.

Chester's numerous parks and green spaces, including Grosvenor Park and the scenic River Dee, provide the perfect setting for dog owners to enjoy strolls and wide yet safe spaces for their pets to roam around.

Hereford secured the third spot on the list, with 271.19 dogs per 1,000 humans, with Wrexham in eighth place with 246.98 dogs per 1,000 humans.

The full list of top 10 cities which love dogs the most according to the reaserch was as follows (dogs per 1,000 people in brackets): 

  • Swindon (316.48) 
  • Chester (274.47)
  • Hereford (271.19)
  • Cambridge (257.06)
  • Solihull (252.75)
  • Kettering (252.34)
  • Gloucester (249.06)
  • Wrexham (246.98)
  • Preston (246.56)
  • Bath (244.9)

Andrew Leal, CEO of Waggel, said: “Dogs are humans' best friends, and this data proves just how much Britons enjoy having a pet by their side, in some areas more than others.

"And regardless of the UK being a highly pet-friendly country in general, it’s interesting to see how all the cities in the top 10 offer both owners and dogs broad and frequent recreative areas to enjoy each other’s company.

“Understanding this and other trends that influence the ranking, the study offers valuable insights into the diverse factors influencing dog ownership and community dynamics across different cities.

“By recognising and celebrating the bond between humans and their furry companions, we can work towards creating more inclusive and pet-friendly environments that benefit both residents and their beloved pets."