Report a stray dog

If you find a stray dog and cannot contact the owner, you must report it to the council.

For example SW1A 2AA

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What you need to know

  • Available in England and Wales only

Keeping a stray dog

You must return a stray dog to its owner if you know who the owner is. Otherwise you must contact your local council.

Tell the council you want to keep the dog. If the council cannot find the owner you may be allowed to keep it. They’ll probably check you’re suitable as a dog owner before you can adopt it.

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