Newsletter: Which Dogs Are Most Likely to Be Stolen in the UK? (March 2025 Update)
Hey dog lovers,
Welcome back to our newsletter! Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s close to the hearts of many pet owners in the UK: dog theft. It’s a heartbreaking issue that’s been on the rise, and knowing which breeds are most at risk can help us all stay vigilant. Let’s break down the latest figures and trends as of March 12, 2025, to shed light on which dogs are most likely to be targeted by thieves—and what we can do about it.
The Scale of Dog Theft in the UK
Dog theft has been a growing concern, with numbers climbing steadily in recent years. According to estimates based on police data, around 2,000 to 2,500 dogs are reported stolen annually across England and Wales. In 2023 alone, Direct Line Pet Insurance reported 2,290 thefts—a 6% increase from 2022. While this might seem small compared to the UK’s estimated 13.5 million dogs, the emotional toll on owners is immeasurable. Plus, experts suspect the real figure could be higher, as not all thefts are reported or recorded consistently by police forces.
The Most Stolen Breeds: 2023 Figures
So, which dogs are thieves targeting? The latest detailed breed-specific data comes from 2023, and it paints a clear picture of the breeds most at risk. Here’s the rundown:
English Bulldog
Thefts in 2023: 50 cases
Why They’re Targeted: English Bulldogs topped the list in 2023, with a staggering 100% increase from 2022. Their high price tag—often £3,000 or more—makes them a lucrative target for thieves looking to sell them on. Their distinctive looks and popularity don’t help either.
French Bulldog
Thefts in 2023: 37 cases
Why They’re Targeted: Despite a 37% decrease from 2022, Frenchies remain a favorite due to their compact size and celebrity-driven demand (think Hugh Jackman and Reese Witherspoon). They can fetch up to £10,000 in some cases, making them an easy grab-and-sell option.
XL Bully
Thefts in 2023: 37 cases
Why They’re Targeted: This breed tied with French Bulldogs in 2023, a year when it also faced a ban in the UK. Their rarity post-ban and high value on the black market likely boosted their appeal to thieves.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Historical Data (2020): 97 thefts
Why They’re Targeted: While 2023 specifics are less detailed, Staffies have consistently ranked high in past years (like 97 thefts in 2020). Their friendly nature and adaptability make them desirable for resale or breeding, especially unspayed females.
Cocker Spaniel
Historical Data (2020): 34 thefts
Why They’re Targeted: These gundogs spiked in popularity during the pandemic, with prices jumping from £800–£1,000 to £3,000–£5,000. Thieves often target them for their breeding potential.
Trends and Hotspots
Theft patterns show that pedigree and “designer” breeds dominate the list, driven by soaring puppy prices since the pandemic. London remains the UK’s dog theft capital, with the Metropolitan Police logging 359 cases in 2023. Kent (138) and West Yorkshire (125) follow close behind. Gardens are the most common theft spot—over 50% of cases—followed by parks and cars.
Why These Breeds?
It’s all about profit. High-value breeds like Bulldogs and Frenchies can be sold for thousands, while breeds like Staffies and Cocker Spaniels are often stolen for breeding, especially if they’re unneutered. Organized crime groups have jumped on this “low-risk, high-reward” trend, with only 1% of thefts leading to prosecution under current laws. Thankfully, the Pet Abduction Act (effective August 2024) now treats dog theft as a specific crime, carrying up to five years in prison—a step toward deterrence.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe
Microchip: Ensure your dog is chipped and details are up to date. It’s the law, and it boosts recovery chances (though only 16% of stolen dogs were reunited in 2023).
Secure Your Space: Over half of thefts happen in gardens—check fences and gates!
Stay Vigilant: Don’t leave your dog tied up outside shops or unattended in cars.
Limit Social Media: Avoid sharing your dog’s breed or location publicly.
What’s Next?
While 2024 data is still trickling in, the upward trend suggests 2025 could see even more thefts unless awareness and enforcement ramp up. We’ll keep you posted as new figures emerge—stay subscribed for updates!
Got a story about your pup or tips to share? Drop us a line. Let’s keep our furry friends safe together.
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