Police in Avon and Somerset say dangerous dog cases are on the rise, with hundreds of animals seized and a record amount spent keeping them in kennels.

Figures show more than 6,000 offences have been logged since 2015, with 389 already recorded by the end of June this year. The cost of kennelling seized dogs has spiralled, hitting more than £932,000 in 2024-25 compared with just £85,000 a decade ago.

The XL Bully tops the list of seizures in 2025, with 65 taken in so far. But while bull breeds dominate, officers have also confiscated more unexpected pets. This year's figures include a dachshund, a pug, a poodle, a French bulldog, a Jack Russell and even a collie.

Crossbreeds made up 38 seizures, alongside 16 pit bull terriers, 8 Staffordshire bull terriers and 6 Pocket Bullies. German shepherds, Cane Corsos and Cocker Spaniels were also among those removed.

Most cases involve dogs deemed dangerously out of control, often where a person or assistance dog has been injured. Arrests and voluntary interviews are rising too, with 8 arrests and 26 interviews linked to dog incidents between January and June.

Outcomes vary, with only two charges brought so far this year. Many cases end in community resolutions or cautions rather than prosecution.

A police spokesperson said: "We have seen a steady rise in incidents involving dangerous dogs over the past decade. Our priority is to protect the public, and where necessary we will seize animals that are deemed a risk. We would urge owners to act responsibly and ensure their dogs are properly trained and controlled at all times."

Officers stressed that breed identification is based on observation at the time of seizure and may not always match the dog's confirmed breed.

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