Dogs: UK investigation finds that fewer than one per cent of dog thefts are prosecuted

Fewer than one per cent of dog thefts reported last year have so far resulted in criminal charges, an exclusive investigation by NationalWorld shows.
By Sophie Lewis
Published 30th Mar 2023, 09:05 BST
Updated 30th Mar 2023, 11:04 BST
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NationalWorld sent Freedom of Information requests to the UK’s 45 police forces, and they received responses from 33 of them.

The results show more than 1,600 dog thefts were reported in 2022, with more than 1,700 individual dogs stolen however due to a quarter of forces failing to respond, the figure is expected be higher.

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The Kennel Club described the figure as ‘really disappointing’ but police chiefs said it was often hard to identify suspects.

Male Criminal Stealing Or Dognapping Puppy During Health Lockdown:Fewer than one percent of dog thefts are prosecuted. Picture: Adobe StockMale Criminal Stealing Or Dognapping Puppy During Health Lockdown:Fewer than one percent of dog thefts are prosecuted. Picture: Adobe Stock
Male Criminal Stealing Or Dognapping Puppy During Health Lockdown:Fewer than one percent of dog thefts are prosecuted. Picture: Adobe Stock

Ministers had announced plans in 2021 to make dog abduction a specific offence punishable by up to five years in jail, through the Kept Animals Bill – but this is yet to become law and campaigners say they fear the government will drop the idea.

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A spokesperson for the RSPCA said: ‘It was really welcome that the UK government announced plans to make pet theft a specific offence under its Kept Animals Bill - offering more assurances to owners. However, the legislation has been in limbo for 500 days - and we're increasingly worried these plans could be dropped altogether.’

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary refused to provide the number of thefts of dogs that happened in 2021 and 2022, but they have offered some advice that dog owners can use to ensure the safety of their dogs.

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A spokersperson for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary said: ‘Avoid leaving dogs unattended in parks, empty cars, or tied up outside shops. If you wish to let your dog off its lead be vigilant and aware of who is around. Always ensure an adult is present when a child is walking the dog. For dogs that wear collars, make sure they have an ID tag that clearly displays your contact details. Resist the temptation to put their name on their collar, as thieves could use it to lure them away. As always, if you see anything suspicious or witness a crime, please report it by calling 101. If it is an emergency, dial 999 immediately.’

Related topics:DogsNationalWorldRSPCAPortsmouth