UK Kennel Club figures show that dog ownership soared during the global pandemic and the associated lockdowns, and have shown little sign of letting up – with around a third of households now owning at least one dog.
Puppy prices have increased in line with demand, meaning that dogs are now more expensive than they have ever been – and thieves are increasingly looking to make a profit by taking dogs and selling them online.
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Security company ADT has compiled a Pet Theft Report using reports of dog thefts to police forces across the UK to see what pups are most commonly taken.
And to give you an idea of why the thieves are snatching dogs, we’ve also looked at the average price for each breed, according to the experts at pets4homes.
Here are the 11 most stolen dogs and what they typically cost.
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5. American Bulldog
Completing the top five most stolen dogs is the gorgeous American Bulldog. It's a very expensive breed - averaging a cost of £2,294.27. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. Siberian Husky
Used to pulling sleds over miles of icy tundra, the Siberian Husky is one of the most demanding dogs to own - but that doesn't seem to put of the thieves. A Husky costs an average of £856.80. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. Jack Russell Terrier
The most dognapped breed of Terrier is the popular Jack Russell. These entertaining dogs are relatively inexpensive, costing an average of £760.84. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. Cocker Spaniel
Costing an average of £1,331, a Cocker Spaniel makes a profitable target for dognappers. Photo: Canva/Getty Images