Dog theft has sadly become a growing concern across America, with certain breeds targeted more frequently than others. Thieves typically go after dogs that are valuable, easy to resell, or can be used for breeding purposes.
Understanding which breeds face the highest risk and knowing how to protect your furry family member could save you from heartbreak and help keep your beloved pet safe.
1. French Bulldogs: Celebrity Favorites With A Hefty Price Tag
These wrinkly-faced charmers can fetch upwards of $5,000, making them prime targets for thieves looking for quick cash. Their compact size makes them easy to snatch and carry away without much struggle.
Their popularity continues to soar, driving both legitimate prices and theft rates higher.
2. Yorkshire Terriers: Tiny Packages With Big Price Tags
Weighing under seven pounds, Yorkies slip easily into bags or jackets, making them disappear in seconds. Their luxurious coats and dainty size have made them status symbols in certain circles.
Beyond their portability, these pint-sized pups command prices between $1,200-$2,500. Thieves know well-bred Yorkies can be quickly resold to unsuspecting buyers through deceptive online listings.
3. Bulldogs: Worth Their Weight In Gold
Built like furry tanks but far more valuable! English Bulldogs can cost up to $9,000 from reputable breeders, making them tempting targets for organized theft rings. Their distinctive looks and breeding challenges (most require artificial insemination and C-sections) drive prices sky-high.
Sadly, their friendly, trusting nature means they rarely put up a fight when approached by strangers.
4. Siberian Huskies: Wolf-Like Beauties That Catch Thieves’ Eyes
Those striking blue eyes and wolf-like appearance make Huskies irresistible to both legitimate buyers and thieves. Their dramatic looks drive impulse purchases, creating a steady black market.
Game of Thrones sparked a Husky craze that never fully died down. Thieves capitalize on this enduring popularity, knowing these photogenic pups can easily be flipped for $1,000+ to buyers who don’t ask questions.
5. Labrador Retrievers: America’s Favorite Makes An Appealing Target
Their universal appeal and friendly disposition make Labs particularly vulnerable to theft. Children can easily be tricked into letting strangers approach their trusting Lab, creating heartbreaking scenarios.
Purebred Labs from championship lines can command $2,000+. Even average Labs get snatched for quick resale or, worse, for use as bait in illegal fighting operations – a disturbing reality that highlights the importance of vigilant ownership.
6. Pomeranians: Fluffy Treasures That Fit In A Purse
Looking like animated cotton balls with personality, these tiny fluffballs are prime theft targets due to their portability and high resale value. Their distinctive appearance makes them instantly recognizable status symbols.
Their small size means thieves can literally pocket these precious pups in seconds if owners aren’t careful.
7. German Shepherds: Working Dogs With Working Value
Unlike some breeds stolen purely for resale, German Shepherds are often targeted for their training potential. Their intelligence and versatility make them valuable for security work – legitimate or otherwise.
Well-trained Shepherds can sell for $15,000+, especially those with protection training. Some thieves specifically target German Shepherds with the intention of using them for illegal activities or underground breeding operations.
8. Maltese: Tiny White Gems That Vanish In An Instant
Resembling living stuffed animals, these snow-white companions are particularly vulnerable in public spaces. Their diminutive size (under 7 pounds) means they can be scooped up and concealed in seconds.
With prices ranging from $2,000-$4,000, these little cotton balls represent big profits for thieves. Their gentle, non-aggressive temperament means they rarely bark or resist when being taken, making them perfect theft targets.
9. Pit Bulls: Targeted for All The Wrong Reasons
Unlike other breeds stolen for their monetary value, Pit Bulls face a darker threat. They’re often stolen for illegal dogfighting operations, either as fighters or as training bait for other dogs.
Their muscular build and trainability make them targets for criminal enterprises. Responsible Pit Bull owners must be especially vigilant, as these loyal companions are stolen not for their price tag but for exploitation in underground criminal activities.
10. Chihuahuas: Tiny Dogs With Huge Theft Appeal
Popularized by celebrities tucking them into designer bags, these pint-sized pups remain highly coveted. Their minute size – some weighing just 2-4 pounds – makes them absurdly easy to steal without notice.
Pure-bred Chihuahuas can command $1,500+, especially rare colors like blue or merle. Thieves know most people can’t distinguish between a $200 and $2,000 Chihuahua, making quick resales relatively simple through online marketplaces.
11. Microchip Your Dog Immediately
Think of microchipping as your dog’s permanent ID card that can’t fall off or be removed by thieves. About the size of a rice grain, these chips are painlessly inserted under your dog’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades.
When scanned at a shelter or vet’s office, the chip reveals your contact information. Remember to keep your details updated in the microchip database if you move or change phone numbers!
12. Never Leave Your Dog Unattended
Those “quick runs” into stores with your dog tied outside create perfect theft opportunities. Even a 30-second dash for coffee gives thieves ample time to untie a leash and disappear.
Your car isn’t safe either – thieves specifically target vehicles with dogs inside. The solution? Bring a friend who can dog-sit during errands, use pet-friendly establishments, or simply leave your furry friend safely at home.
13. Secure Your Property Properly
Backyard bandits account for countless dog thefts yearly. Ensure gates have locks that can’t be easily opened from outside, and consider adding privacy slats to chain-link fences to prevent scoping.
For serious protection, install visible security cameras covering your yard. Thieves typically avoid properties with surveillance. Some owners even post “Dog Protected by Security Camera” signs as effective deterrents.
14. Be Cautious On Social Media
Those adorable Instagram posts of your purebred pup could be sending invitations to thieves. Avoid sharing identifying details like your daily walking route or when your home is typically empty.
Consider waiting until you’ve returned home before posting about your dog park adventures. Disable location tagging on pet photos, and think twice before joining public breed-specific groups where thieves might lurk for targets.
15. Use GPS Tracking Collars
Modern pet technology offers peace of mind through GPS tracking collars that pair with smartphone apps. These nifty devices allow real-time location monitoring and can alert you if your dog leaves a designated safe area.
While not theft-proof (collars can be removed), they provide crucial head-start time for recovery. Many models include additional features like activity monitoring and temperature alerts, making them worthwhile investments beyond theft prevention.