London: most stolen pets 2012-2022, by type of animal

Between 2012 and 2022, there were a total of 3,139 dogs registered as stolen in London, making dogs the most stolen pet reported to the Metropolitan Police service. Overall, for the measured time period, 2,155 fish were stolen, as were 1,850 pet birds.

Most common breed of dog being dognapped

Unfortunately, dog theft cases have risen over the past few years. There were 398 recorded dog thefts in London in 2022, a figure which stood at 328 in 2019. Dogs of pedigree value are likely to fall victim to dognapping. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are the most reported stolen breed of dog, with almost 500 incidences reported to the London authorities in the past ten years. Chihuahuas, French Bull Dogs, and German Shepherds are also amongst the most reported stolen breeds.

Pets of the UK

Known as a pet-loving nation, the United Kingdom's households are homes to many different kinds of animals. Perhaps unsurprisingly, as of last year, dogs were the most common type of pet in the UK, followed by cats, and indoor birds. Pet parents also opened their homes to Ferrets, Lizards, Frogs, and Pigeons, to name a few.