Dog theft in the UK

What You Need to Know in 2025

Dog theft remains a serious concern across the UK. While recent data shows a slight drop in reported thefts, many dogs are still being taken daily.

According to Direct Line’s 2025 report, an estimated 1,808 dogs were stolen in 2024, which is five dogs taken every day. Only 19% of those were reunited with their families.

You might think it won’t happen to you. But theft can happen anywhere—on walks, from gardens, outside shops, or even in your driveway. Knowing the facts helps you take simple steps to protect your dog.

The number of reported thefts has fallen by 21% since 2023. This is a positive shift, possibly linked to new legal changes.

The Pet Abduction Act, introduced in May 2024, now makes pet theft a specific offence. It carries a prison sentence of up to five years. It also recognises that dogs are more than property.

This change may deter some theft, but it hasn’t removed the risk entirely. Over 60% of dog owners worry about their dog being stolen.

Which Dogs Are Most at Risk?

Certain breeds are more likely to be targeted. These dogs are often chosen for their resale value or breeding potential.

In 2024, the French Bulldog was the most stolen breed in the UK, with 51 dogs reported stolen. This was a 38% increase compared to the previous year.

Other breeds seeing significant increases include:

  • Rottweilers, with a 180% rise in thefts
  • Border Collies, up 81%
  • Chihuahuas, up 71%

Thieves look for dogs they can sell quickly or use in breeding. Smaller dogs that are easier to handle and transport may be more vulnerable. Due to their market demand, high-profile or designer breeds are also at greater risk.

Where and How Are Dogs Being Stolen?

Most thefts happen in everyday places, often when dogs are left unattended.

Common locations include:

  • Outside shops, while owners go inside
  • In cars left briefly on the driveway or roadside
  • From private gardens, especially front or unfenced ones
  • From kennels, either at home or at boarding facilities
  • During dog walks, thieves follow owners and wait for a chance

In some cases, dogs are taken straight from their lead while walking in public.

Criminals may observe routines before acting. They might follow you on your regular route or notice when your dog is outside alone.

Is Dog Theft a Local Issue?

The risk varies by location. Urban areas with higher foot traffic, especially around parks and retail centres, can see more theft.

London consistently reports some of the highest theft numbers. But thefts are not limited to cities. Rural areas see dogs taken from farms, gardens, and driveways.

Dogs are stolen for different reasons, including:

  • Breeding and illegal puppy sales
  • Resale to unsuspecting buyers online
  • Ransom demands
  • Use as bait in dog fighting

Not every theft is reported. Some owners may not realise their dog was stolen or may not report it right away.

Many dog owners and charities have welcomed the Pet Abduction Act. Before this law, pets were considered personal property, and theft carried the same weight as stealing a phone or a bicycle.

Now, the emotional value of dogs is recognised in law. The act also makes it easier for police to investigate and for courts to give more substantial penalties.

While it’s too early to measure the full effect, the drop in theft numbers between 2023 and 2024 is a positive sign.

Simple Steps to Keep Your Dog Safe

You can reduce the risk of dog theft by making a few changes to your routine.

Don’t leave your dog unattended.

Never leave your dog outside a shop, even for a few minutes. Avoid leaving them in your car where they are easy to see and reach.

Keep your garden secure. Lock gates and check fencing regularly. Don’t leave dogs alone in front gardens or tied up outside.

Be careful on walks

Use a strong, secure lead—especially in busy or open areas. Avoid walking alone in quiet areas if possible. Stay alert to people watching or following you.

Vary your route and timing. This makes it harder for anyone to track your habits.

Avoid sharing too much about your walk locations or routines on social media.

Supervise your dog at all times.

Please keep your dog in sight when in the garden or outside with you. Please don’t leave them alone, even in your driveway or parked car.

Avoid letting children walk dogs alone, especially younger children or if strangers easily approach the dog.

Use ID and tracking

Ensure your dog is microchipped and your contact details are up to date. This is a legal requirement in the UK.

Consider using a GPS tracking device on your dog’s collar. These are useful if your dog escapes—or is taken—and can help locate them quickly.

Keep recent photos of your dog and note any identifying features, such as scars, markings, or the microchip number.

What to Do if Your Dog Is Stolen

Act fast. Report the theft to the police and get a crime reference number.

Contact your microchip database and flag your dog as stolen. Notify local vets, rescues, and dog wardens. Post in local lost and found groups, but avoid sharing too much detail about the incident if police are investigating.

Check online marketplaces for similar dogs being sold.

You can also register your dog as missing with national networks like:

These services help raise awareness quickly and often work directly with the police and rescue centres.

How Finchley Dog Walker Supports Safer Walks

As a professional dog walker, I take safety seriously. I never leave dogs unattended and use secure leads and collars.

I avoid walking dogs in high-risk areas and adapt routes based on your dog’s needs.

If your dog is nervous or reactive, I walk it one-on-one to reduce risk and ensure its security.

I also update owners with photos and check-ins, so you know your dog is safe in my care.

Here, you can read more about how I tailor walks for anxious or reactive dogs.

Stay Informed and Stay Alert

Dog theft is not a new issue, but the tactics have changed. Thieves are targeting all types of dogs for many different reasons.

The more aware you are, the more steps you can take to reduce risk.

If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. Report suspicious behaviour and speak to other dog owners in your area.

You don’t need to walk in fear. But being alert and prepared can help protect your dog and give you peace of mind.