Few things are more heartbreaking than when your pet goes missing. It’s tough to think about your furry friend being stolen, but unfortunately, it happens to hundreds of dogs every year. You might think some breeds are targeted more than others—and you’d be right. The most likely to be taken are popular, expensive, friendly, and conveniently sized breeds. Here are 15 dog breeds most likely to be stolen and why.
French Bulldogs
French Bulldogs are the most likely breed to be stolen. Their small size and high market value make them prime targets. With their lovely nature and distinctive bat-like ears—French Bulldogs are perfect companions for city living. Unfortunately, these same traits attract dog lovers and criminals looking to make quick money. Their compact size makes them easy to grab, and their friendly nature makes them less likely to resist strangers.
Yorkshire Terriers
Yorkshire Terriers are often stolen due to their small size. Many people see them as fashionable pets, which makes them very attractive to thieves. Even though Yorkies are tiny, they have lots of energy and can be quite loud. However, this doesn’t stop dognappers because Yorkies can be sold for a high price. Losing a Yorkie is not just about money—it’s a deeply personal loss due to the strong bond they form with their owners.
Labrador Retrievers
The Labrador Retriever—America’s favorite dog—is also at risk of being stolen. Labs are friendly, well-behaved, and can do many different jobs, like being family pets or service animals. Sadly, these traits also make them targets for thieves. Labs are often taken for resale, breeding, or even illegal fighting rings because their high demand and larger size can fetch a higher price.
German Shepherds
German Shepherds are in high demand because they are smart, loyal, and can do many jobs—from being family pets to working with the police. While their protective instincts and big size might scare off some bad guys, others see them as valuable targets. They often get stolen to be sold again or used in illegal activities, like being guard dogs for criminals.
Staffordshire Bull Terriers
Staffordshire Bull Terriers, also known as Staffies, might look super tough because of their strong and muscular bodies, but they’re actually very friendly and loving dogs. Unfortunately, some people wrongly think they’re aggressive because of how they look. This misunderstanding can make them targets for dognappers who want them for illegal activities like dogfighting or to show off.
Chihuahuas
Chihuahuas are tiny dogs that people love to carry around and keep as companions. Because they’re so small, they’re at risk of being stolen. Thieves want Chihuahuas because they can sell them for a lot of money, and many people see them as trendy accessories. Their small size and lovable qualities—like being loyal to their owners, make them even more appealing to thieves.
Bulldogs
Bulldogs are known for their wrinkled faces, strong bodies, and friendly and loyal personalities. Unfortunately, these same qualities make them vulnerable to being stolen. Bulldogs can be sold for a lot of money on the black market for pets. Because they’re so easygoing, they’re less likely to try to escape or fight back when someone tries to take them—making them easy targets for thieves.
Maltese Dogs
Maltese dogs are small, cute, and have soft, white fur that stands out. Because they look so fancy and are friendly, people really want them as pets. But because they’re so small, they’re easy for thieves to take or sneak around. Also, because they’re pretty popular and can be sold for a lot of money, thieves like to target them.
Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus are little dogs that love to be around people and have long, beautiful hair. They’re friendly and sweet, which makes them very attractive to people looking for pets. Because they’re small and make great companions—they’re at risk of being stolen. Thieves can easily take them without anyone noticing because of their size and how much people love them.
Pomeranians
Pomeranians are little, fluffy dogs with lots of energy, which makes them popular pets but also puts them at risk of being stolen. Because they’re so small and many people want them—especially in rare colors or teacup versions- thieves see them as valuable targets. Pomeranians are trusting and curious, so they might approach strangers who want to hurt them without realizing it’s dangerous.
Siberian Huskies
Siberian Huskies are famous for their stunning looks, with captivating blue eyes and thick fur that reminds us of their Arctic roots. They’re lively and love being around people, making them popular pets. But because they’re so beautiful and friendly, they’re at risk of being stolen. Thieves often take Huskies because they can sell them for a lot of money—especially if they’re purebred and have unique markings.
Boxers
Boxers are famous for their strong bodies, endless energy, and love for playing, which makes them popular as family pets. But because they’re so strong and protective, they catch the eye of dognappers. Thieves often go after Boxers because of their strength and athleticism and because they can be used for illegal things because of their protective nature.
Poodles
Even though a perfectly groomed Poodle might seem fancy and a bit proud, they’re actually super sweet and affectionate dogs. People love them because their hair-like coat is great for folks with allergies, and they’re smart, cheerful, and very loyal to their families. Sadly, there are lots of stolen Poodles being sold on the black market.
Dobermans
Doberman Pinschers are known for their shiny coats and strong bodies, as well as their smarts and loyalty. But because they’re seen as great guard dogs, they’re often stolen. Thieves take them to use as guards without training or sell them to people who want a prestigious breed. Even though they’re protective—they might try to defend themselves and get taken because of it.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their big, soulful eyes and sweet personalities, making them perfect lap dogs and cherished companions. Because they’re small and friendly, they’re often taken by dognappers. Thieves sell them again or use them for breeding—especially if they have special coat colors or markings. Cavaliers are trusting and don’t usually think bad things about strangers, which makes them easy to steal.
