Policy Brief on dogs published

The Policy Centre has published a Policy Brief on dogs. The Brief provides some basic information about dogs in Jersey – their number and characteristics, laws and regulations governing their ownership and control, and policy issues. Key points in the Brief are –

• There are nearly 10,000 licensed dogs in Jersey. Between 2013 and 2024 the number of licensed dogs increased by 37
• Jersey is well down the international league table in respect of dog ownership.
• About 18% of Jersey households have dogs compared with a third of UK households. The percentage in Guernsey is nearer that of the UK.
• The dog/households percentage is highest in St Ouen (38.2%) and is over 35% in St Martin, Trinity, St John and St Mary. It is lowest in St Helier (10.0%).
• The most common dog breeds are Labrador Retriever (7.7%), Cockapoo (6.3%), Cocker Spaniel (5.5%) and Jack Russel Terrier (5.3%).
• The most common dog names are Bella, Luna, Poppy, Lola and Buddy.
• The dog economy is worth about £20 million a year and includes sales of dog food, breeding and sales, veterinary services, kennels, grooming and dog sitting and walking.
• The JSPCA plays a significant role in respect of the welfare of dogs in Jersey.
• Dogs in Jersey have to be licensed unlike in the UK where they have to be microchipped. There are laws governing the conduct of dogs.
• Public policy issues in respect of dogs include excessive barking, dogs disturbing other livestock, not cleaning up poo, dog walking on beaches, the cost of veterinary services and the need for dogs to be licensed.

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