Chester third highest rate of reported missing dogs in UK

Pet insurance provider  Waggel  analysed DogLost listings across the UK, ranking cities by missing dog reports per 100,000 people.

Chester placed third overall, recording 52.34 missing dog reports per 100,000 people.

The figures reflect DogLost reports only, not confirmed thefts or total missing dog incidents, but they highlight where owners may need to be especially careful.

Dr Aimee Warner, resident veterinarian at  Waggel , said owners need to ensure their dog’s microchip is up to date.

She said: “Most missing dog cases start with a very ordinary moment.

“A dog may bolt after a loud noise, squeeze through a gap in a fence, run off during a walk, or slip out when someone opens the front door.

“It can happen very quickly, which is why prevention is so important.

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“Owners should make sure their dog’s microchip details are up to date, check collars and ID tags regularly, and be extra careful in unfamiliar places.

“Dogs can behave differently when they are frightened or excited, so secure leads, good recall training and keeping an eye on doors, gates and gardens can make a real difference.”

Key findings:

• Chester ranked third in the UK for reported missing dogs, with 52.34 missing dog reports per 100,000 people.
• Only Salford and Leeds ranked higher, recording 109.97 and 54.62 missing dog reports per 100,000 people respectively.
• Chester placed ahead of Wakefield and St Albans, which completed the national top five.
• The data suggests missing dog reports are not limited to the UK’s largest cities, with Chester ranking above major cities including Bradford, Wolverhampton and Oxford.

Waggel also looked at the dog breeds most commonly appearing in missing dog reports across the UK.

The Jack Russell Terrier topped the list, with 2.40 missing dog reports per 100,000 people, followed by Staffordshire Bull Terriers and Lurchers.

Dr Warner added: “The first few hours are really important.

“Search the local area, contact nearby vets and rescue centres, report the dog as missing through the microchip database, and share clear, recent photos with community groups.

“The quicker people nearby know what to look for, the better the chances of getting a dog home safely.”