Four dogs are stolen every day across the UK, with French bulldogs and Staffordshire bull terriers topping the list of most targeted breeds, according to a recent analysis of police data by Direct Line.

The $30 million canine crisis

The total number of reported dog thefts over the last 11 years stands at around 25,000, with an overall decline of 11 per cent compared to the previous year. Improved awareness and the introduction of the Pet Abduction Act in May 2024, which made pet theft a specific criminal offence in England and Northern Ireland, could have contributed to this decline.

However, the number of reported dog thefts remains a concern, with four dogs being stolen every day across the UK. This alarming trend has left many dog owners worried about their pets' safety.

French bulldogs: the most stolen breed

French bulldogs remain the most stolen breed, but Staffordshire bull terriers, German shepherds, and dachshunds are being increasingly targeted. Despite ranking eighth overall, cocker spaniels recorded the fastest growth in reported thefts compared to the previous year.

The data highlights the need for dog owners to take extra precautions to protect their pets . Many dog owners are taking steps to prevent theft, with 18 per cent installing motion-activated or security cameras to ward off thieves, and 17 per cent using a tracking device to monitor their dog's location.

Who's behind the dog thefts?

The data does not reveal the identities of the individuals or groups responsible for the dog thefts. however, the introduction of the Pet Abduction Act in May 2024 has made pet theft a specific criminal offence in England and Northern Ireland, potentially contributing to the decline in thefts.

The Pet Abduction Act has given law enforcement agencies the necessary tools to tackle the issue of dog theft.. However, more needs to be done to protect our beloved pets and prevent these crimes from occurring in the first place.