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Why are dangerous dog attacks getting worse?

November 11, 2026 · 18 min

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When XL bullies were added to the list of banned dog breeds in 2023, it was meant to dramatically reduce the number of people being attacked by dangerous dogs. In fact, serious incidents are on the rise.

Hospitals are seeing more cases admitted, while Greater Manchester Police has reported a 900 percent increase in the number of dog seizures – without the resources or the kennels to cope.

Sky News correspondent Katie Barnfield was herself the victim of a serious attack last year. She’s been telling Niall Paterson about her investigation into the inexorable increase in dangerous dog attacks.

Warning: This episode contains graphic descriptions of Katie’s injuries.

Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: [email protected]

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