The U.S. Postal Service is sounding the alarm after more than 6,000 dog attacks on mail carriers were reported in 2024. As part of its National Dog Bite Awareness Campaign kicking off June 1, USPS is urging dog owners to secure their pets and help prevent injuries to its workforce.
This year’s campaign theme is “Secure Your Dog, Keep Deliveries on Track.” The message is clear: responsible pet ownership is key to safe, uninterrupted mail delivery.
Top cities and states for dog attacks
The Postal Service released its 2024 rankings of U.S. cities and states with the highest number of dog attacks on carriers:
Top 5 cities for dog attacks
- Los Angeles, CA – 77 attacks
- Houston, TX – 65
- Chicago, IL – 57
- St. Louis, MO – 47
- Cincinnati, OH – 44
Top 5 states
- California – 701 attacks
- Texas – 438
- Ohio – 350
- Illinois – 344
- New York – 322
Rochester, NY, also made the national list, with 23 incidents, placing it among the top 20 cities for dog-related postal injuries.
Why all dogs pose a risk
Even well-behaved pets can become unpredictable when they perceive a threat. USPS Safety and Health Awareness Manager Leeann Theriault emphasized that “all dogs—regardless of breed, size or age—have the potential to bite.”
Dogs may attack when startled, anxious, sick, or simply protective. Often, owners are caught off guard because their pets have never acted aggressively before.
“Customers may not consider their dog a danger to others,” said Jonah Helfrich, a letter carrier in Blue Bell, PA. “But to someone delivering mail, all dogs can be perceived as a threat.”
Tips for dog owners
To keep both dogs and carriers safe, USPS recommends:
- Secure dogs inside a separate room when expecting mail.
- Do not open the door with your dog nearby.
- Keep pets leashed and away from carriers during outdoor mail delivery.
- Avoid accepting mail in the presence of your dog.
- Educate children not to take mail directly from the letter carrier.
Additionally, pet owners are encouraged to sign up for USPS Informed Delivery to preview mail and anticipate delivery times.
What happens if a dog attack occurs?
Dog bites don’t just injure workers—they cost money. Owners may be held liable for medical bills, lost wages, uniform replacement, and pain and suffering. In some cases, mail service may be suspended if carriers feel unsafe, forcing owners to pick up mail at their local Post Office.
If the situation persists, the owner may be required to rent a P.O. Box.
How USPS prepares carriers for dog threats
Mail carriers receive safety training that includes:
- Scanning for signs of dogs on properties
- Using dog alert features in their handheld devices
- Carrying dog repellent and using satchels as shields during attacks
- Never assuming a dog won’t bite
- Placing their foot against outward-swinging doors to prevent escapes
Despite precautions, thousands of workers are injured every year. The campaign’s goal is to reduce these incidents through awareness and proactive pet handling.
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