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A dog and its owner. The dog is wearing a Pit Pat GPS tracker to help with preventing dog theft.
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In recent years, the UK has seen a concerning rise in dog theft cases, leaving families devastated and pets missing.

Police figures suggest at least 2,290 dogs were stolen last year, an increase of 6% from 2022, and most are reported in London, Kent, and West Yorkshire. 

As a responsible dog and/or pet business owner, it's crucial to be aware of the risks and take proactive steps to preventing dog theft and protecting our furry friends.

Here we'll delve into the alarming trend of dog theft, understand why it's happening, and provide practical tips on how you can safeguard your beloved companion.

Why is dog theft on the rise?

Dog theft is not a new phenomenon, but its prevalence has spiked in the UK in recent years. The demand for certain breeds, especially pedigree dogs, has led to an increase in thefts. 

English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and XL bullys were the most frequently stolen breeds, with the former two regularly advertised for about £3,000, according to Direct Line.

These stolen pets can be sold on the black market, used for breeding in illegal puppy farms, or even held for ransom.

The effect of dog theft on families…

Behind each statistic lies a heart-wrenching story of a family missing their pet.

Dogs are not just pets; they are cherished members of the family, providing love, companionship, and comfort. The emotional impact of losing a pet to theft can be devastating, leading to anxiety, sadness, and a sense of helplessness. 

Preventing dog theft: How can you lower the risk?

1. Take care in public places

Never leave your dog unattended, even for a moment. Whether you're at the park, outside a shop, or in your car, always keep a close eye on your furry companion.

2. Microchip and ID Tags

Ensure your dog is microchipped and that the details are up to date (this is a legal requirement of dog ownership in the UK).

Additionally, a collar with an ID tag displaying your contact information is essential. This increases the chances of a safe return if your dog is lost or stolen.

Try to avoid using your dog's full name on their tag. This means that thieves cannot call your dog by their name. 

3. Secure Your Home

Keep your garden secure with high fences and locked gates. Consider installing motion-activated lights or cameras for added security.

4. Limit Social Media Exposure

Be cautious about sharing detailed information about your dog on social media. Avoid posting photos of your pet's microchip or any identifiable markings that could make them a target.

Be conscious of using your location or sharing your routine. 

5. Beware of Strangers

If someone seems overly interested in your dog or asks probing questions about them, trust your instincts.

Be cautious about sharing too much information with strangers, especially about your pet's breed and value.

6. Join Community Watch Groups

Get involved in local dog owner communities or neighbourhood watch groups. Sharing information and staying connected can help raise awareness and prevent thefts.

7. Report Suspicious Activity

If you witness any suspicious behaviour or have concerns about dog theft in your area, report it to the police. Your vigilance could help prevent others from becoming victims.

A dog running in a long grass field. It is wearing a Pit Pat GPS tracker to help with preventing dog theft.

We also spoke with our friends at PitPat, who have helped to pave the way within the pet tracker industry. 

Here's what they said:

"A pet tracker is an emergency button and deterrent

"Visually it might put a thief off, as they may think the monitor is a camera or recording device.

"If they are aware and know it's tracking activity, they may not have the time or opportunity to remove the collar or harness that it's attached too at that moment.

"Also if the fur-panion is taken, it may give the carer/pet parent the opportunity to locate the last known position or area before the device was removed, or if the furpanion manages to get free and escape the abductor find where they are.

"PitPat has no subscription and live tracking, it is free to use and so is our app - therefore this provides a simple and cost-effective solution. Using our GPS Tracker will raise more awareness and potentially could reduce theft.”

As people in the pet industry, it's our duty to protect our pets from the heartbreaking crime of dog theft.

By staying informed, vigilant, and taking proactive steps, we can ALL help to reduce the risk and keep our beloved pets safe. Let's work together to raise awareness, share information, and create a safer environment for all our four-legged friends.

Remember, a little precaution goes a long way in safeguarding the joy and love that our dogs bring into our lives. Stay safe, stay aware, and cherish every wag of that tail!