The United States Postal Service just launched its annual dog bite awareness campaign. San Diego ranked eighth nationally for mail carrier attacks, with 60 incidents recorded countywide in 2025.
Nationwide, postal workers suffered 5,200 dog bites last year, with California leading all states at 673 incidents. San Diego specifically recorded 32 attacks, placing it among the top 10 cities alongside Los Angeles, Dallas and Denver.
“A few years ago, we had a co-worker who the dog severely injured their face and their neck – really brutal attack, have to be very careful – it’s why we want to bring this awareness to our customers,” said John Hyatt, USPS spokesperson who was also bitten while delivering mail.
Hyatt described his own experience saying “the dog barely got ahold of the skin and then ran away. I also had a dog burst through a screen door and chase me down the street.”
USPS attributes San Diego’s high ranking to year-round nice weather that keeps more people and dogs outdoors. The agency emphasizes that even friendly dogs can pose risks to mail carriers who follow the same daily routes.
“Even if they’re friendly, they may misinterpret something and have a bad moment. Our employees have and love their pets, so many of us are dog owners as well. We’re just trying to keep everyone safe, including the dog and the homeowner,” Hyatt said.
The postal service recommends several safety measures: keeping dogs secured when expecting packages, using leashes during walks, and maintaining closed gates. Mail carriers receive training and carry humane society-approved pepper spray as a last resort.
Dog attacks carry serious consequences for pet owners, who become responsible for medical bills while animal control may quarantine the animal.
USPS offers an informed delivery service that tracks mail and sends daily photos of incoming items, potentially giving owners more time to secure their pets before delivery.
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