A new study by pet insurer Waggel reveals that Swindon is the number one dog-loving city in the UK.
The study 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. Nestled in the picturesque county of Wiltshire, Swindon offers a perfect blend of urban convenience and natural beauty.
With spaces like Queen’s Park, Lydiard Park and Coate Water Country Park, Swindon provides a tranquil retreat for dog owners seeking outdoor adventures.
The city’s pet-friendly cafes, pubs, and accommodation options reflect its commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for pets and their owners.
Following closely behind is Chester, boasting 274.47 dogs per 1,000 humans. Steeped in history and charm, Chester captivates visitors with its medieval architecture and winding cobblestone streets.
The city’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 secures the third spot on the list, with 271.19 dogs per 1,000 humans. The city hosts various green spaces, such as the Hereford Cathedral Gardens, Castle Green and Aylestone Park, which offer great settings for dog owners to explore with their furry companions.
Further down on the list, Cambridge ranks fourth, with 257.06 dogs per 1,000 humans. Renowned for its prestigious university and rich history, Cambridge offers four legged companions plenty of parks and meadows, including the popular Jesus Green, Parker’s Piece and Midsummer Common.
Solihull closes the top five with 252.75 dogs per 1,000 humans. Situated in the West Midlands, Solihull’s Malvern and Brueton Park and its suggestive lake, as well as Elmdon Park, provide abundant opportunities for pets to enjoy themselves.
| Top 10 most dog-loving cities in the UK | ||
| City | Dogs per 1k humans | Rank |
| Swindon | 316.48 | 1 |
| Chester | 274.47 | 2 |
| Hereford | 271.19 | 3 |
| Cambridge | 257.06 | 4 |
| Solihull | 252.75 | 5 |
| Kettering | 252.34 | 6 |
| Gloucester | 249.06 | 7 |
| Wrexham | 246.98 | 8 |
| Preston | 246.56 | 9 |
| Bath | 244.9 | 10 |
Andrew Leal, CEO of Waggel, commented on the findings: “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 owner’s 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.”
