Toward Objective Assessment of the Stray Dog Problem in Jordan

The discourse surrounding stray dogs in Jordan suggests a significant threat to public safety. Intense media coverage precipitated a surge in cruelty that is likely to persist in the absence of compelling counterarguments and serious interventions. While the issue is undeniable, constructing an objective assessment is challenging due to limited data, impeding policy debate and casting doubts on proposed interventions. This study reports results from the first, and ongoing, survey of free-roaming dogs in Jordan designed to establish a baseline and monitor population changes in the city of Irbid. Data collected from November 2021 through November 2023 indicate a decreasing trend in the number of dogs, with an average approaching the bottom of the range observed in other countries. To gain better understanding, we analyzed media reports since 2010 and examined relevant data from the Jordan Ministry of Health. While media reports often cited personal safety as the primary concern, available data do not support the conclusion that stray dogs pose a growing threat. It is likely that the increased media interest and widespread misinformation have contributed to overstating the problem beyond its actual proportions.