Number of dogs stolen reaches seven year high

The number of dogs stolen in the UK has reached a seven-year peak, with French Bulldogs and Jack Russell Terriers the most targeted breeds in 2021. Other small dogs like Chihuahuas and Pugs were also popular targets according to new research from Direct Line Pet Insurance.

Last year, the number of dogs stolen rose by 13 per cent across the UK to 2,760, the highest levels since Direct Line started analysing theft rates in 2015.

This means 53 dogs were stolen every week last year, nearly eight every single day. This is 321 more than in 2020 and 611 more than in 2019, when Direct Line recorded the lowest rate of dog theft (2,148).

Aston spoke to the editor of Dogs Today Beverley Cuddy.

Photo by Berkay Gumustekin on Unsplash