Designer dogs are being blamed for the recent increase in dog thefts. The term “designer dogs” refers to certain breeds that are often owned by celebrities, thus making them appear fashionable. On the black market, selling designer dogs can result in a profit of hundreds or even thousands of pounds. As a result, criminals are stealing desirable canines, according to animal activists and insurance companies.
Increased Rates of Dog Thefts
Since 2012, cases of dog theft have been on the rise. Direct Line are the latest to publish figures from police forces in England and Wales. These figures show that 121 more dogs were stolen in 2017 than the year before, with almost 2,000 thefts reported to the police last year.
There Are Other Factors Along With Designer Dogs
Although designer dogs have been cited as a cause of increasing dog thefts, there are other factors to be considered. The Blue Cross states that we are much better at recording cases of theft and collecting the data. Furthermore, owners may feel like they are able to come forward and report their pet as stolen, rather than just missing. As a result, the public are faced with a fairer and more realistic reflection of dog theft.
In 2017, the top five most commonly stolen dog breeds were:
- Staffordshire bull terrier
- Crossbreeds (e.g. cockerpoos)
- French bulldog
- Chihuahua
- Jack Russell
Celebrity Endorsement Creates Designer Dogs
The fact that specific breeds are being targeted indicates that celebrity influence is driving the popularity and value of designer dogs. For example, French bulldogs have been popularised by famous owners like Hugh Jackman and Lady Gaga. Paris Hilton is often seen with a chihuahua by her side, not to mention the breed was popularised by the film ‘Legally Blonde’.
When the value of these dogs rises, so does the interest of criminals. Because certain dog breeds are viewed as fashionable, there will be people that are willing to pay thousands for an animal. Unfortunately, this makes them targets for thieves. Cases of dog theft are thought to be carried out by organised gangs who then sell the animals on the black market or demand a ransom from the owners.