Keep Your Pets Safe From Theft
Dog theft is a growing issue, with reports showing a significant rise in stolen pets across various countries.
Recent reports from various countries have revealed a troubling increase in the number of stolen pets.1-3 Dogs often go missing while tied up outside shops, taken from cars or gardens, or during walks. Studies have shown that offenders use a variety of methods to carry out these thefts. Some are quite cunning and employ distraction techniques, while others approach the unsuspecting dogs in a friendly manner, which helps explain why many pets remained calm during observed thefts.2
Which breeds have the highest risk of theft?
Certain breeds are particularly vulnerable to theft, including:
- Small, easily transportable dogs such as Maltese, Miniature Spitz, Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, and Shih Tzus
- Larger, popular breeds like French and English Bulldogs, German Shepherds, and Labradors, and breeds which can be exploited for dog fighting3
What are the main motives behind dog theft?
- Resale, as these animals can fetch high prices online
- Breeding, with the intention of selling their puppies for significant profit
- Ransom demands or rewards
- Dog fighting purposes
Theft of dogs is extremely stressful for both pet owners and the animals themselves.4 The uncertainty of not knowing how your beloved pet is doing or whether you will ever see them again can be incredibly distressing. For the dog, particularly if they are already anxious, this situation can trigger significant stress responses.5
To help you protect your dog from theft, we have compiled some useful tips.
Advice to protect your dog from theft
- Do not leave your dog unattended in public: Make sure not to leave your dog alone outside shops or in the car
- Secure outdoor areas: Do not leave your dog unattended in the garden and ensure that there is no access to the property through any gates, fences or hedges
- Install security systems: Consider installing alarm systems or use motion detectors to notify you if someone is on your property
- Stay vigilant: Keep an eye out for any suspicious vehicles or individuals, encourage your neighbors to do the same and make a report to the authorities if necessary
- Change up your routine: Alternate your walking times and take different routes with your dog to avoid predictability
- Stay alert during walks: Stay alert to distractions that may take your focus away from your dog or from someone trying to capture your dog's attention
- Hire trusted dog walkers: Ensure they understand and follow safety precautions to protect your dog while in their care.
- Check boarding facilities: If leaving your pet at a boarding facility, confirm that they have proper security measures in place
Important Reminders for Dog Owners
- When you take your dog for a walk, make sure that they wear a tag or a collar/harness that includes your name and mobile phone number, as well as the registered identification number from the pet database
- Have your dog microchipped as soon as possible and make sure they are registered at the pet registry with your current information
- Avoid posting details about you or your dog's location or the places where you walk on social media
Dog theft is an increasing concern, with animals being stolen for various reasons. The motives behind these thefts can include resale, breeding, dog fighting, and ransom demands. The measures outlined can help reduce the risk of dog theft and ensure the safety of these animals.
References:
1The disturbing rise in dog thefts and how communities can fight back. 2024 Mar 21 [accessed 2025 Jan 23]. https://www.countryside-alliance.org/campaigns/communities/dog-theft
2Study sheds light on rising epidemic of pet theft | Newswise. [accessed 2025 Jan 23]. https://www.newswise.com/articles/study-sheds-light-on-rising-epidemic-of-pet-theft
3Dog theft on the up in 2023. DLG Corporate Corporate Website. 2024 Mar 7 [accessed 2025 Jan 23]. https://www.directlinegroup.co.uk/en/news/brand-news/2024/dog-theft-on-the-up-in-2023.html
4Stickle B, Vose B, Miller JM. A Video Data Analysis of Pet Theft Incidents: An Examination of Offense Form, Situational Dynamics, & Offender Characteristics. Deviant Behavior. 0(0):1–11. https://doi.org/10.1080/01639625.2024.2378111
5Rivera MM, Meyers-Manor JE. Beware of Strangers: Dogs’ Empathetic Response to Unknown Humans. Animals. 2024;14(14):2130. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14142130