It’s hard to imagine someone stealing a dog, but pet theft is a real concern—especially for certain breeds. Popular, friendly, and high-value dogs like French Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, and Yorkshire Terriers top the list of most commonly kidnapped in the U.S. Their small size and high resale value make them easy targets for thieves. Purebreds and trendy designer mixes are also at risk. Knowing which breeds are most vulnerable can help you take extra precautions to keep your furry friend safe and sound.
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are beloved across America for their gentle nature and playful spirit. Because they’re so popular, Labradors are often targeted by dog thieves looking to resell them quickly. These dogs are friendly to strangers, making it all too easy for kidnappers to lure them away. Their high demand means they fetch a hefty price, whether sold as family pets or, heartbreakingly, for other illegal purposes. Labs are also used as service dogs, making them even more valuable. If you have a Labrador, it’s essential to keep a close eye on them, especially in public spaces like parks or yards. Their trusting nature, while heartwarming, can make them vulnerable to anyone with a treat and a smile.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are small, adorable, and hugely trendy. Sadly, all of these traits make them a top target for dognappers. With their compact size, they’re easy to snatch and carry away quickly. Frenchies can sell for thousands of dollars, making them a tempting target for criminals looking for fast cash. Their popularity among celebrities and influencers only adds to their desirability. Owners should be extra cautious when walking their Frenchie, especially in urban areas where thefts are most common. The heartbreak of losing a French Bulldog can be immense, given their affectionate personalities and the deep bonds they form with their people.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, or “Yorkies,” are tiny but mighty—and unfortunately, often a target for thieves. Their small size makes them easy to pick up, even from a busy sidewalk or an unattended backyard. Yorkies are a favorite among city dwellers, which means they’re often found in high-traffic areas where kidnappers can blend in easily. Their long, silky coats and bright personalities make them highly sought after in the pet market. Because they’re so portable, it’s crucial for Yorkie owners to always keep their dogs close, using leashes and secure carriers whenever possible. Losing a Yorkie isn’t just a financial blow—it’s like losing a little member of the family.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are known for their adorable faces and loving nature, but these same qualities put them at risk for dog theft. Their small stature makes them easy to lift and remove unnoticed. Shih Tzus are especially popular among families and seniors, which means they’re often seen on leisurely walks or in unlocked yards. Their beautiful coats and sweet expressions can attract the wrong kind of attention. Some thieves target Shih Tzus because they’re easy to resell as lap dogs or companions. Owners should be aware of their surroundings and never leave their Shih Tzu tied up outside a store or alone in a car, even for a moment.
Pomeranian
Pomeranians might be tiny, but they have giant personalities and fluffy coats that make them irresistible. Unfortunately, their popularity and small size make them prime targets for kidnappers. Poms are often seen as status symbols thanks to their glamorous looks and celebrity owners. Their value on the black market is high, and they’re easy to hide or transport. Pomeranian owners need to be especially vigilant in crowded places or whenever their dog is out of their immediate reach. Despite their bold barks, Poms can’t do much to defend themselves if someone tries to take them, making awareness and prevention all the more important.
Bulldog
Bulldogs, especially the English Bulldog, are stolen frequently due to their high price and popularity. These dogs are known for their gentle nature and iconic wrinkled faces. Thieves often target them not just for resale, but sometimes for illegal breeding operations, since purebred Bulldogs can fetch a fortune. Their stocky build means they aren’t fast runners, so they’re easy for someone to grab and carry off. Bulldogs can also be less wary of strangers, making them more vulnerable to kidnappers. For Bulldog owners, it’s important to secure your yard and always supervise your pet outside.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are feisty, loyal, and incredibly popular. Their tiny size makes them especially vulnerable to theft. Because they’re so portable, Chihuahuas can be snatched from a bag or even from an owner’s arms. Their popularity in movies and with celebrities has only increased their desirability. Many Chihuahuas are purebred, making them valuable to breeders and pet seekers alike. Owners need to be careful when out in public, especially in busy places where someone could easily snatch their pup. Even in their own yards, Chihuahuas should never be left unsupervised.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are prized for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. These qualities make them a favorite for families, law enforcement, and sadly, thieves. Because of their high value as working or show dogs, German Shepherds are often stolen for resale or illegal training purposes. They’re large and strong, but their trusting nature—especially with people—can be their downfall. Some thieves target German Shepherds specifically for breeding or even dog fighting, making their theft even more tragic. Owners should always keep their Shepherds within secure fences and monitor them during walks and playtime.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are one of America’s favorite family dogs. Their friendly nature and striking appearance make them a frequent target for dognappers. Goldens are easygoing and tend to approach strangers without fear, which unfortunately makes them easier to steal. Their high resale value, particularly as puppies, drives thieves to target them. Goldens are often targeted from homes, parks, and even vehicles. For owners, microchipping and always supervising your Golden can help prevent the heartbreak of losing such a beloved companion.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers are strong, loyal, and protective, but even they are not immune to theft. Their reputation as guard dogs makes them valuable for illegal activities or as status symbols. Some thieves are brazen enough to steal Rottweilers for breeding or as fighting dogs, putting these loving animals at serious risk. While their imposing size might deter some, Rottweilers can be very trusting of people they know—or even strangers who approach them calmly. Owners should secure their yards and never assume their Rottweiler’s size alone will keep them safe.
Maltese
The Maltese is a tiny, elegant breed adored for its flowing white coat and sweet temperament. Unfortunately, these traits also make them irresistible to thieves. Maltese dogs are easy to pick up and conceal, making them frequent targets in both urban and suburban areas. Their high price tag and demand in the pet market add to the risk. Owners of Maltese dogs need to be especially vigilant, never leaving their pets unattended in public or unsecured areas. Even a moment’s distraction can be enough for someone to make off with a cherished Maltese.
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are affectionately known as the “American Gentleman” thanks to their tuxedo-like markings and friendly demeanor. Their small size and widespread popularity put them at risk for theft. Boston Terriers are sociable and may not hesitate to approach strangers, making them vulnerable in parks or public spaces. Their unique appearance and gentle personality make them easy to resell. Owners should be cautious when letting their Boston Terrier off-leash and always keep their yards securely fenced. The emotional impact of losing a Boston Terrier can be devastating for families and individuals alike.
Pit Bull Terrier
Pit Bull Terriers are often misunderstood, but they’re extremely loyal to their owners. Unfortunately, their strength and reputation make them targets for criminals who want them for illegal fighting or breeding. Pit Bulls are sometimes stolen right out of their own yards, especially in areas where dog fighting rings are active. While they can be protective, Pit Bulls may trust someone who acts friendly or offers treats. Owners should be aware of their surroundings and take extra precautions, such as microchipping and using secure gates. The loss of a Pit Bull can be especially painful due to the breed’s deep loyalty and attachment.
Pekingese
The Pekingese is a regal little dog with a lion-like mane and an affectionate heart. Their small size and distinctive appearance make them a favorite among dog thieves. Pekingese dogs are often stolen to be sold as exotic pets or show dogs. Because they’re not as common as some other breeds, their rarity can drive up their value on the black market. Owners should always supervise their Pekingese in public and be cautious about who has access to their home or yard. The loss of a Pekingese can leave a lasting void due to their unique personalities.
Boxer
Boxers are energetic, playful, and incredibly loyal. Their popularity as family pets means they’re often targeted by dognappers looking for high-value breeds. Boxers are friendly with strangers, which sometimes works against them. Their athletic build and good looks make them desirable for thieves hoping to resell them or use them for breeding. Owners should keep their Boxers inside secure yards and never leave them unattended in public places. The bond between a Boxer and its family is strong, and losing one can be a traumatic experience.
Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies have striking blue eyes and fluffy coats that make them stand out in any crowd. Their beauty and popularity, especially on social media, have made them a frequent target for dog theft. Huskies are known for being escape artists, but even when they’re not running off on their own adventures, they’re at risk of being stolen. Thieves often target Huskies for resale or for use in illegal breeding. Owners should invest in secure fencing and always keep their Huskies on a leash in public. The pain of losing a Husky is deeply felt due to their charismatic and loving personalities.
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are gentle, affectionate, and easy to love. Their beautiful, wavy coats and soulful eyes make them attractive to would-be thieves. Cocker Spaniels are often stolen from yards or even through open doors, as they’re trusting and curious by nature. Their popularity as both family pets and show dogs adds to their appeal on the black market. Owners should be mindful of their surroundings and ensure their Cocker Spaniel is always supervised, especially in unfamiliar environments. The loss of such a loyal friend can be heartbreaking.
Great Dane
Great Danes might be giants, but their gentle nature often makes them easy targets for determined thieves. Their impressive size draws attention, and surprisingly, some are stolen simply for their status as a “big dog.” Great Danes are not always aggressive toward strangers, so it’s possible for someone to lure them away with food or a friendly approach. Because they require special care and are expensive to purchase, they’re valuable to criminals. Owners should always secure their property and never assume a fence is deterrent enough for someone determined.
Pug
Pugs are small, charming, and have a face no one can resist. Their stocky build and friendly attitude make them easy to approach and carry away. Pugs are popular with families and singles alike, which means they’re in high demand. Their unique appearance and playful nature add to their value on the black market. Owners should always keep their Pug close, especially in busy parks or public places. The emotional toll of losing a Pug is immense, as their quirky personalities make them unforgettable companions.
Bichon Frisé
The Bichon Frisé is a fluffy, cheerful breed that captures hearts with its happy-go-lucky personality. Sadly, these same traits make them a target for thieves looking for a cute, marketable pet. Bichons are easy to handle and transport, so they can be whisked away without much effort. Their popularity in urban areas means they’re often seen in parks and on city sidewalks, where thieves may strike. Owners should use secure leashes and always keep a watchful eye on their Bichon. The loss of such a joyful pet can leave a home feeling empty and silent.
While it’s unsettling to think about, being aware of pet theft risks can help you better protect your dog. If you own one of the more targeted breeds, taking small steps like using secure leashes, avoiding leaving them unattended, and microchipping can make a big difference. Staying alert and cautious goes a long way. After all, your pup’s safety is always worth the extra effort.
Esther is from India; the heartbeat of South Asia, holding a Master’s degree in Zoology and a postgraduate diploma in Animal Welfare. Her enthusiasm for animal welfare drives her passion and dedication to working for animals, ensuring their well-being, and advocating for their rights. With a solid academic background and hands-on experience, she is committed to making a positive impact in the field of animal welfare. In her free time, she enjoys embroidery and sewing. As a Chennaite from Tamil Nadu, Esther loves Bharathanatyam, an Indian classical dance form.
