Dog kidnapping has been on the rise since the coronavirus pandemic, which saw many Brits welcoming new pets into their families.
The number of dogs stolen in the UK reached a seven-year peak in 2021 when 2,760 pooches were kidnapped, according to research carried out by Direct Line Pet Insurance.
French Bulldogs were the most stolen breed, followed by Jack Russells, Chihuahuas and Pugs.
Pet Business Insurer Cliverton found that the highest number of dognapping cases took place in London, with 422 incidents reported to the Metropolitan Police in 2021 and 318 in 2020.
The second-worst area for dog kidnapping was Yorkshire, where police dealt with 199 incidents in 2021.
In Kent, police reported 182 stolen dog cases in 2021 - a 64 per cent rise compared to 2020.
Next on the list was Lancashire Constabulary, with 116 reported cases, while 100 dog thefts took place in Yorkshire.
Cliverton said owners should always make sure their dog wears a collar with their contact information on it so that pets can be returned if they are lost or taken to another area of the country.
The insurance company said taking pictures that can be used on 'Lost Dog' posters is also important to ensure locals are aware of what stolen pets look like.
Dog trackers can also be attached to a collar or a harness, so that pet owners can know the real-time location of their pooch.
Finally, Cliverton says dog walkers should try to stick to safe paths rather than heading off into the countryside and adds that home security cameras are important too to prevent theft.
Lynne Fisher, Marketing and Sales Support Manager at Cliverton, said: " Dognapping is on the rise. In fact, there were 2,760 reported incidents within the UK in 2021.
"That's the highest number of dognapping cases in the last seven years. These can be sold for a profit, used to breed new dogs, or even used as dog bait.
"At Cliverton, we offer insurance plans to help those working in animal-related businesses.
"This includes our dog walking insurance package, which covers all public liability for dog sitters, dog walkers, and dog taxi workers."
If your dog is kidnapped, you should report the theft to the police straight away and make sure the pet is recorded as stolen, not missing, says DogsTrust.
Owners should also report the crime to their local authority dog warden and notify their microchip database provider.
It is also recommended to ask local rescue centres, animal charities and vet practices to keep an eye out for stolen dogs.
Since thieves often try to sell stolen dogs, you should also check pet websites, pet shops and notice boards and notify the police immediately if their pet is put up for sale.
Missing and stolen animal websites such as DogLost also help reunite missing pets with their owners by offering free advice and support.
