4 dogs stolen every day across the UK in the last year

That amounts to an average of four dogs taken every day, according to police figures analysed by Direct Line, which revealed around 25,000 reported dog thefts over the past 11 years.

French bulldogs, Staffordshire bull terriers, and dachshunds remain among the most frequently targeted breeds.

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.

“Certain breeds, particularly French bulldogs and staffies, continue to be targeted, and we see the emotional and financial impact this can have on owners.

“Dog theft often results in lengthy recovery periods and, in many cases, permanent loss, especially when animals are stolen opportunistically or sold on quickly.

“While it’s encouraging to see more dogs reunited with their families, the reality is that most stolen dogs still don’t come home.

“Thieves can strike at any time, so taking preventative steps – such as keeping pets identifiable, ensuring microchips are up to date, and remaining vigilant – can make a real difference.”

Direct Line suggests that increased public awareness and the introduction of the Pet Abduction Act in May 2024, which made pet theft a specific criminal offence in England and Northern Ireland, may have contributed to an 11 per cent drop in thefts compared to the previous year.

Despite this decline, the insurer emphasised that the risk persists, particularly for certain breeds.

‘Mouse’ went missing in Buckinghamshire during a walk at a local golf club (Image: PA)

Staffordshire bull terriers, German shepherds, and dachshunds all saw rises in thefts, while cocker spaniels recorded the fastest year-on-year increase despite ranking eighth overall.

An estimated 344 stolen dogs, around 21 per cent, were reunited with their owners.

The issue remains deeply personal for those affected.

Anne Maynard’s adult female Jack Russell, Mouse, went missing from Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire, in December 2023.

She said: “Every day has been a struggle.

“I still cry every day, we’ve searched so much I no longer know where to look.

“I’ve tried everything within my means to find her but there’s been nothing. We check every Jack Russell we see.

“We’re sent pictures which could be Mouse, they look so similar and we have to really scrutinise the photo but no sign of her yet. We will not give up.

“We have so much hope that we’ll find out what happened that dreadful day.

“Thieves have no idea what happens when they do what they do.

“It’s devastating, heartbreaking and life-changing.

“We just want our girl back home where she belongs.

“Someone has an opportunity to turn our lives back round again. Please give her up.”

Anne Maynard is offering a £6,000 “no questions asked” reward for the safe return of Mouse (Image: PA)

Fears of pet theft remain widespread among dog owners.

Half of owners surveyed by Direct Line said they worry about their dog being stolen, with 33 per cent saying they only ever walk their dog on a lead and 26 per cent supervising their dog while in the garden.

Other security measures include motion-activated cameras (18 per cent) and tracking devices (17 per cent).

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

“This can make the trauma even harder to process, especially for children who may be left distressed and confused by the sudden loss of a cherished member of the family.

“Reaching out to someone who understands the emotional impact of losing a pet can make a real difference.

“At Blue Cross, we provide a vital lifeline for devastated owners whose much-loved companions have been stolen, offering practical support and a listening ear during an incredibly difficult time.”