An average of four dogs were stolen daily across the UK last year, according to the latest police figures. This contributes to a total of approximately 25,000 reported dog thefts over the past 11 years, with popular breeds such as French bulldogs, Staffordshire bull terriers and dachshunds identified as most at risk.
Analysis of police data by Direct Line revealed an 11 per cent decline in thefts compared to the previous year. This reduction may be linked to improved public awareness and the implementation of the Pet Abduction Act in May 2024, which established pet theft as a specific criminal offence in England and Northern Ireland.
Despite the overall decrease, French bulldogs continue to be the most frequently stolen breed. Thefts of Staffordshire bull terriers, German shepherds, and dachshunds, however, saw an increase. Cocker spaniels, while ranking eighth overall, recorded the fastest growth in reported thefts year-on-year.
The recovery rate for stolen pets remains low, with an estimated 344 dogs reunited with their owners, representing just 21 per cent of all thefts – a figure consistent with previous years. Half of UK dog owners (50%) worry about their pet being stolen, with 33% saying they only ever walked their dog on a lead and 26% supervising their dog while it is in the garden, a survey for Direct Line suggests.
Anne Maynard, whose female adult jack russell named Mouse went missing from Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire in December 2023, said her disappearance remained “devastating” for the family. Mrs Maynard, who is offering a £6,000 “no questions asked” reward for the safe return of Mouse, said: “Every day has been a struggle, I still cry every day, we’ve searched so much I no longer know where to look.”
Adam Burgin, head of trading and customer at Direct Line, said: “Any reduction in dog theft is welcome, but it’s important not to confuse lower numbers with lower risk. More than four dogs a day were still stolen in 2025 and, with over 25,000 dogs taken in the last 11 years, it’s clear this issue hasn’t gone away.”
