Borough has highest level of dog fouling complaints in UK per head of population

Antrim and Newtownabbey has recorded the highest complaint rates per 10,000 residents about dog fouling.

The findings are based on the most recent complete year of verified FOI data from 2024.

This is the latest full dataset released by local authorities, as 2025 figures have not yet been finalised.

Analysis by pet PR agency Bubblegum Search shows that ten UK councils received a combined 5,249 complaints about dog mess in 2024, but not one of them issued a single fine.

The data highlights ongoing enforcement gaps that residents continue to report throughout 2025.

When adjusted for population, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council in Northern Ireland tops the list with 39.2 complaints per 10,000 residents, or 571 in real terms.

Matt Cayless, Founder of Bubblegum Search, said: “Although councils have not yet released complete figures for 2025, the latest available FOI data from 2024 paints a very clear picture. Thousands of residents are reporting dog fouling issues, but enforcement in many areas remains non-existent."

“The regional spread is striking. Northern Ireland and the South East show the highest complaint rates relative to population, while several English and Scottish councils still recorded hundreds of reports without issuing a single fine. These gaps continue to be felt by residents throughout 2025."

“While resource pressures and operational challenges may be factors, the outcome is the same. Communities are dealing with persistent dog fouling problems and little is being done to deter offenders.”