The appeal follows figures showing that 2,019 postal workers were injured by dogs last year, equivalent to approximately 38 incidents each week. With Christmas approaching and deliveries expected to increase, the organisations are promoting practical measures to reduce the risk of incidents at people’s front doors.
Royal Mail Reports More Than 2,000 Dog-Related Injuries Among Postal Workers
According to Royal Mail, 52% of dog attacks on its employees occurred at the front door last year. The company says even dogs normally considered friendly can behave unpredictably when they feel the need to protect their home or family.
Although the number of reported attacks fell by 8% over the previous year, the postal service says the risk remains a serious concern for its workforce. Lizz Lloyd, Royal Mail’s Health and Safety Director, acknowledged the reduction but stressed that attacks continue to cause physical injuries and emotional distress.
“While it’s encouraging to see dog attacks on our colleagues fall by 8% last year, these incidents remain a serious risk to postal workers, resulting in painful injuries and lasting distress. Every attack is one too many,” she said.
The company is asking households to keep dogs securely away from entrances before opening the door. It also recommends installing letter cages or external delivery points to prevent bites through letterboxes.
Owners are advised to ensure doors and gates remain closed so animals cannot reach postal workers approaching their properties. Royal Mail warns that deliveries may be suspended where a safe delivery point is not provided. It also notes that owners could face prosecution and their dogs could be seized by police if an animal is dangerously out of control.
Free Blue Cross Webinar Offers Practical Advice for Dog Owners
According to Blue Cross, its free “Protecting Your Postie” webinar focuses on helping dogs remain calmer when the doorbell rings or deliveries arrive.
The charity has been running Responsible Dog Ownership courses for five years and is now working with Royal Mail to provide guidance specifically addressing interactions with postal workers.
The training covers why dogs may react to delivery workers, the consequences of incidents and simple measures owners can introduce to manage their pets’ behaviour. Participants will also receive information about where to find further support.
Each session lasts approximately one hour and is delivered through Zoom by Blue Cross animal welfare experts. Participants need a reliable internet connection and access to a computer, tablet or smartphone.
The next webinar takes place on Tuesday 17 November 2026 at 7pm. Places are limited, although attendance is free. According to the charity’s published schedule, further sessions are planned for 18 March, 11 May, 12 July and 17 November 2027.
The training is primarily intended for owners whose dogs have displayed concerning behaviour without an attack having occurred, although other owners seeking guidance are welcome.
Registration is available through the Blue Cross website, where owners can select a suitable session. Royal Mail continues to encourage households to secure their dogs before answering the door, particularly as the Christmas delivery period approaches.
