Last year saw a significant increase in dog theft across the UK, with a staggering 1,808 dogs reported stolen, according to police figures. French bulldogs have emerged as the most targeted breed, with 51 reported thefts in the past year, marking a 38% increase from 2023. These dogs can fetch up to £5,000 each when purchased from reputable breeders, making them a lucrative target for criminals looking to make quick money by selling them on. The rise in thefts is not limited to French bulldogs, as Rottweilers, Border collies, and Chihuahuas have also seen increases in thefts, with a 180%, 160%, and 86% spike respectively.
In contrast, thefts of XL bullies have declined by 49% following a ban on the breed in England and Wales. While the overall number of thefts has decreased by 21% compared to the previous year, only around 19% of stolen dogs were successfully returned to their owners. The introduction of the Pet Abduction Act in May last year, which made pet theft a criminal offence in England and Northern Ireland punishable by up to five years in prison, appears to have had a positive impact on reducing dog theft. Over the past decade, 23,430 dogs have been reported stolen to the police, with only 21% of them being returned to their rightful owners.
Despite the decline in reported thefts, dog owners continue to express concerns about the safety of their pets, with 61% admitting to worrying about the possibility of their dog being stolen. To mitigate the risk, 40% of owners said they would only walk their dogs on a lead, and 17% have opted to use tracking devices. Adam Burgin, head of Direct Line Pet Insurance, emphasised the emotional toll that dog theft takes on pet owners, highlighting the stress and trauma that come with losing a beloved companion. Anne Maynard’s story of her missing Jack Russell, Mouse, serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring pain and uncertainty experienced by those whose pets have been stolen.
Beverley Cuddy, editor of Dogs Today magazine, underscored the importance of vigilance in preventing dog theft, urging pet owners to regularly check their dogs’ microchip data to ensure accuracy. She also highlighted the need for continued efforts to make it harder for criminals to profit from stolen dogs. Despite the heartache faced by many pet owners, there have been heartwarming stories of reunions between stolen dogs and their families, demonstrating the unwavering bond between pets and their owners. While strides have been made in combatting dog theft, the threat still looms, necessitating ongoing awareness and precautions to protect our furry companions.