Top 15 Most Stolen Dog Breeds

chris-mueller/Getty

Ever wondered which furry friends are at the top of the dognappers’ wish list? According to American Kennel Club (AKC) records, around 2 million dogs are stolen annually. We’ve rounded up 15 dog breeds that thieves have an eye on. Join us as we find out the breeds that are most likely to be robbed and why they’re so sought after. So, grab a seat and get ready to meet some of the most adorable (and unfortunately coveted) canines out there!

French Bulldog

Jens Mahnke/Pexels

French bulldogs, bred for their distinctive appearance, are now being selectively bred for rare traits. Unfortunately, the breed’s popularity and high value have made them frequent targets for theft. Their compact size, weighing up to 28 pounds and standing less than a foot tall, adds to their vulnerability. Due to their coveted status, French bulldog puppies can fetch prices ranging from $1,500 to over $5,000, driving some to resort to illicit means to acquire them.

Source: ABC7 San Francisco

Dachshund

Nicolas Cappella/Pexels

With their distinguished physique and playful charm, dachshunds have seen more thefts lately. High demand and sky-high prices, fueled by social media and lockdown effects, have made them hot targets for robbers. Unaltered males and unfixed females are especially at risk for shady breeding purposes. Purebreds with unique markings, rare coats, and puppies are also in the crosshairs.

Source: I Love Dachshunds

Yorkshire Terrier

Pixabay/Pexels

This breed is often targeted by thieves due to their small and portable size, making them easier to snatch. Additionally, their popularity and high market demand contribute to their theft. Some specifically look for purebred Yorkies, which can fetch significant prices. Their cute appearance and affectionate nature make them desirable pets, increasing their swiping risk.

Source: The News Journal

Chihuahua

musicFactory lehmannsound/Pexels

Despite being less prone to theft compared to other breeds, the Chihuahua’s petite size and endearing charm make them vulnerable. Their portable nature and adorable fashion-like appearance attract opportunistic thieves seeking quick profit or simply drawn to their cuteness. A purebred Chihuahua can fetch between €3,000 and €4,000 from reputable breeders.

Source: The Brussels Times

German Shepherd

Summer Stock/Pexels

This breed ranks high among stolen dog breeds due to its popularity and perceived protectiveness. Due to their ferocious nature, German Shepherds are usually stolen when they are young puppies. If left unattended or in vulnerable situations (e.g., tied outside a store), they can be easily taken by opportunistic thieves.

Source: FOX 35 Orlando

Maltese

Ayyeee Ayyeee/Pexels

Maltese are prized for their long, flowing white coats and charming, expressive eyes. Maltese dogs are generally friendly, trusting, and affectionate towards strangers. This aesthetic appeal can make them attractive to thieves looking to sell them quickly or keep them as pets. While this makes them excellent companions, they may not exhibit the cautious behavior that would deter someone with malicious intent.

Source: DogTime

Shih Tzu

jennifer pueda/Pexels

With their adorable faces and luxurious coats, these dogs are like doggy celebrities, which, unfortunately, makes them prime targets for robbery. Their friendly nature and love for cuddling up to humans also mean they’re more likely to cozy up to a dognapper than defend themselves.

Source: Reader’s Digest

Labrador Retriever

Gabe/Pexels

Globally, labradors are one of the most popular breeds of dogs. They are typically not aggressive towards strangers, which makes them less likely to deter thieves or guard against theft. Purebred Labradors, especially those with pedigree and good lineage, can fetch high prices in the market. Depending on factors such as lineage, health certifications, and breed standards, a Labrador puppy can fetch several hundred thousand dollars.

Source: ABC Chicago

Poodle

Artie Siegel/Pexels

Known for their intelligence, elegance, and hypoallergenic coat, Poodles are highly desirable as pets. They usually come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy, catering to various preferences in size and temperament. Poodles can be relatively expensive to purchase from reputable breeders, especially those with champion bloodlines. They may be advertised online or sold through less scrupulous channels to unsuspecting buyers who may not realize they are purchasing a stolen dog.

Source: paws.org

Siberian Husky

Kateryna Babaieva/Pexels

Due to their popularity and demand, stolen Huskies can be quickly and easily resold, often without difficulty finding a buyer. Their unique and beautiful appearance, with striking blue or multi-colored eyes and thick double coats, makes them easily identifiable and desirable, increasing their risk of theft. Purebred Siberian Huskies can be pretty expensive, sometimes costing thousands of dollars. This high monetary value means they are lucrative targets for robbery.

Source: Dogster

Pomeranian

Tiểu Bảo Trương/Pexels

These adorable dogs are popular as pets and status symbols, making them easy to resell for a profit. Their friendly and trusting nature leaves them vulnerable to being lured away by strangers. Owners should take precautions such as microchipping, using secure harnesses, and never leaving their Pomeranians unattended in public places to prevent theft.

Source: portsmouth

Boxer

No-longer-here/Pixabay

The demand for certain breeds in the black market can drive up instances of theft. As a popular breed, boxers often find themselves in this high demand. Boxers have a distinctive and attractive appearance with their muscular build, short coat, and expressive faces. Purebred Boxers can be quite expensive, especially those with a good pedigree.

Source: livemint

Doberman

Aysun Kahraman Öktem/Pexels

Dobermans are known for their protective nature and guarding abilities. Some thieves steal them specifically for these traits, either to use them as guard dogs or to resell them to people looking for protective pets. The breed is also popular among dog enthusiasts due to its intelligence, loyalty, and striking appearance. This popularity increases demand and, in turn, the likelihood of theft.

Source: paws.org 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Pixabay/Pexels

This breed is very popular due to their friendly and affectionate nature and are highly desirable pets. Their cute and appealing looks, with large, expressive eyes and a silky coat, make them attractive targets for thieves looking to sell them quickly. Moreover, they are small, which means they are easier to snatch and carry away.

Source: Bliss Cavalier Rescue

Beagle

Kim Dubois/Pexels

Due to their popularity as family pets, beagles are always in high demand and an attractive target for burglars seeking to make a quick profit. Additionally, their curious and adventurous spirit can sometimes lead them to wander off, making them easier targets. Unfortunately, beagles are also used in unethical breeding practices and research, adding another layer of risk for these lovable dogs.

Source: CCTV.co.uk

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply