Four dogs stolen every day across UK last year – here are the breeds most at risk

An average of four dogs a day were stolen in the UK last year, according to the latest police figures.

This statistic contributes to a total of nearly 25,000 dog thefts reported over the past 11 years, with popular breeds such as the French bulldog, Staffordshire bull terrier and dachshund identified as most at risk.

Analysis of police data by Direct Line revealed an 11 per cent drop in thefts compared to the previous year.

This reduction may be linked to increased public awareness and the implementation of the Pet Theft Act in May 2024, which makes pet theft a specified offense in England and Northern Ireland.

Despite the overall decline, French bulldogs remain the most frequently stolen breed. However, there has been an increase in thefts of Staffordshire bull terriers, German shepherds and dachshunds.

Cocker Spaniels ranked eighth overall and recorded the fastest year-on-year increase in reported thefts.

The recovery rate of stolen pets remains low; an estimated 344 dogs were reunited with their owners; this represents only 21 percent of all thefts; This figure is consistent with previous years.

According to a survey for Direct Line, half (50%) of dog owners in the UK are worried about their pet being stolen; 33% say they only walk their dog on a leash, and 26% say they supervise their dog when they are in the yard.

About 18% have installed motion-activated or security cameras to thwart thieves, while 17% use a tracking device to track their dog’s location.

Anne Maynard, whose adult female Jack Russell named Mouse went missing from Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire, in December 2023, said her disappearance remains “devastating” for the family.

Miss Maynard, who is offering a “no questions asked” £6,000 reward for Mouse’s safe return, said: “Every day has been a struggle, I still cry every day, we’ve searched so hard I don’t know where to look anymore. I’ve tried everything I can to find him but nothing has happened.”

“We check every Jack Russell we see. We are sent pictures of what could be a mouse, they look very similar and we need to examine the photo thoroughly but there is no sign of him yet.”

“We will not give up. We have so much hope that we will find out what happened on that terrible day.”

“Thieves have no idea what happens when they do what they do. It’s devastating, heartbreaking and life changing. We just want our daughter back home where she belongs. Someone has the opportunity to get our lives back on track. Please give up on her.”

Direct Line head of commercial and customer Adam Burgin said: “Any reduction in dog theft is welcome, but it is important not to confuse lower numbers with lower risk. “More than four dogs a day were still stolen in 2025 and with more than 25,000 dogs taken in the last 11 years it is clear this problem has not been solved.

“Certain breeds, particularly French bulldogs and staffies, continue to be targeted and we see the emotional and financial impact this can have on their owners. Dog theft often results in long recovery periods and, in many cases, permanent loss, especially when animals are opportunistically stolen or quickly sold.

“While it’s encouraging to see more dogs being reunited with their families, the reality is that many stolen dogs still do not return home. Thieves can strike at any time, so taking preventive steps such as keeping pets identifiable, ensuring microchips are up to date and staying vigilant can make a real difference.”

Annalisa de Carteret, pet loss support manager at animal welfare charity Blue Cross, said: “The uncertainty of not knowing where your pet is or whether they are safe can be as painful as grief, but without the closure that comes with it.

“This can make trauma even more difficult to process, especially for children who are distressed and confused by the sudden loss of a valued member of the family.

“Reaching someone who understands the emotional impact of losing their pet can make a real difference. At Blue Cross, we provide a vital lifeline for devastated owners whose much-loved friends have been stolen, offering practical support and a listening ear during an incredibly difficult time.”