DOG thefts in the UK fell by a fifth last year, police figures show — but the number of stolen French bulldogs shot up.
There were 51 taken, an increase of more than a third on 2023.
It is now the breed most likely to be targeted by crooks as they can cost up to £5,000 from reputable breeders.
In all, an estimated 1,808 dog thefts were reported, according to figures obtained by Direct Line Pet Insurance.
Rottweiler thefts rose most sharply, then border collies and chihuahuas.
In contrast, thefts of XL Bullies fell by almost half following the ban on the breed introduced in February last year.
One in five dogs reported stolen was returned to their owner.
The fall in thefts may be down to new laws making it a criminal offence punishable by up to five years in prison.
The Pet Abduction Act came into effect in May last year.
Adam Burgin, head of Direct Line Pet Insurance, said: “As a nation of pet lovers we hope to continue the downward trend in the number of stolen dogs.
“Our research over the last decade has shown dog theft is a persistent issue and hopefully the Pet Abduction Act 2024 will encourage a change in criminal behaviour in the long-term.
“Those who have fallen victim to dog theft will know the intense stress and trauma that comes with having their beloved pet snatched away from them, often with no closure on knowing what happened to a member of their family.”
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Four expert tips to prevent your pet from getting lost
TO help pet owners avoid the pain of losing their beloved companion, security experts at Locksmith Luton have also shared some tips on preventing your pets from getting lost...
- Establish a routine and supervise outdoor time
Pets thrive on routine, and consistent schedules can reduce the likelihood of wandering. Feed them, walk them, and play with them at the same times each day to create structure. When outdoors, always supervise their activities, even in a fenced area. Consistent supervision minimises the chances of your pet straying too far or encountering dangers.
- Secure your home and garden
Take steps to make your home escape-proof. Fix any broken fences, ensure gates are always latched, and check for gaps where a curious pet might squeeze through. Indoors, keep doors and windows secure, especially when people are entering or leaving. If you have a dog, consider using a leash in unfenced areas to prevent wandering, especially during walks or outdoor playtime.
- Train your pet to respond to commands
Teaching your pet basic recall commands like ‘come’ or ‘stay’ can be life-saving. Start training in a controlled environment and gradually introduce distractions. Reinforce their response with treats and positive reinforcement. Training not only strengthens your bond but ensures that your pet will return to you if they wander too far.
- Microchip your pet and keep information up-to-date
Microchipping is a simple, permanent way to link your pet to you in case they go missing. Ensure the microchip is registered with your current contact information and any alternate phone numbers. Additionally, equip your pet with a durable collar that includes an ID tag showing your phone number and address for quick contact if they’re found.
