A stray dog is a dog without its owner or other authorised person in a public place or a place it's not allowed to be.
Before you report a stray dog
Before you report a stray dog to us:
- If the dog is friendly and you're happy to approach it, you can check if it's wearing a collar. Collars usually have the owner's phone number written on the tag.
- You can then call the owner to let them know you've found their dog.
- If you're able to get in touch with the owner who says they're coming to get the dog, there's no need to report the dog to us.
How to report a stray dog
You can report stray dogs to us using the form below.
The dog warden will attempt to collect 'loose' stray dogs Monday-Friday 9am-5pm. Between 5pm-9am Monday-Friday and all day weekends and bank holidays, the dog warden will only collect stray dogs that have been secured.
Report a stray dog (opens in a new window)
You can also take stray and unwanted dogs to Manchester Dogs Home yourself but you'll need to contact them in advance. Contact details for Manchester Dogs Home.
What stray dogs you should report to us
You can report any of the following dogs to us:
- Dogs running around in public with no owner.
- Dogs left tied up in public with no owner around.
- Dogs off the lead not being controlled by their owner.
- Dogs let out to exercise by themselves rather than being walked by the owner.
What stray dogs you shouldn't report to us
You shouldn't tell us about any of the following:
What happens to lost or found dogs
We take the stray dogs we find to
Manchester Dogs Home.
If you've lost your dog, you can check if your dog has been handed in to Manchester Dogs Home. You'll need to pay a fee to Manchester Dogs Home before you'll get your dog back.
You can also search the Dog Lost website for lost and found dogs.
Thinking of getting a dog?
DogsTrust can help you if you're thinking of getting a dog. Contact them for more information.