Most Stolen Dog Breeds in the UK (2024)

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Based on police data analyzed by Direct Line Pet Insurance, approximately 1,808 dogs were stolen in the UK in 2024, a 21% decrease from 2023 but still averaging about five thefts daily. French Bulldogs have emerged as the most stolen breed for the first time, driven by their high resale value, often fetching £2,000–£3,000. Thieves target breeds that are popular, portable, and expensive, exploiting them for resale, illegal breeding, or online scams. Alarmingly, only 19% of stolen dogs were reunited with their owners in 2024. Urban areas like London and Kent see the highest theft rates, with over half of incidents occurring in gardens.Here is the list of the top 10 most stolen dog breeds in the UK for 2024, based on reported thefts:

French Bulldog: 51 thefts, up 38% from 2023, now the most targeted breed due to its high market value.

English Bulldog: 37 thefts, a consistent target due to its popularity and price.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier: 31 thefts, historically the most stolen breed over the past decade.

Chihuahua: 26 thefts, up 86%, likely due to their small size and demand.

American Bulldog: 22 thefts, a newer entry in the top ranks.

Jack Russell Terrier: 20 thefts, a small breed often targeted for portability.

Labrador Retriever: 18 thefts, a popular family dog vulnerable in public spaces.

Rottweiler: 17 thefts, up 180%, possibly due to demand for guard dogs.

Border Collie: 13 thefts, up 160%, valued for intelligence and versatility.

XL Bully: 12 thefts, down 49%, possibly due to recent breed restrictions.

Historically, Staffordshire Bull Terriers have been the most stolen breed from 2014 to 2024, topping the list in five years. In 2023, English Bulldogs were the most stolen, with around 40 cases, but 2024 shows a shift toward smaller, high-value breeds like French Bulldogs. To protect your dog, consider using GPS trackers (used by 17% of owners), walking on leads in busy areas (40% do), securing gardens, and ensuring your dog is microchipped and scanned at vet visits. Stay vigilant, especially if you own one of these breeds!