By Mark Gill, CEO of Petasure
Puppy theft in the UK is no longer just the stuff of tabloid headlines – it is a harsh and growing reality for breeders, families, and the dogs themselves. As demand for puppies continues to outstrip supply, criminals are cashing in by stealing pets and selling them on to unsuspecting buyers.
The surge in pet ownership since the pandemic has intensified the problem. According to the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association, 3.2 million UK households acquired a pet during the pandemic, with dogs topping the list. Meanwhile, average puppy prices soared, in some cases quadrupling overnight. The Kennel Club reported a 168 per cent increase in online searches for puppies in 2020 alone. That demand, combined with huge profits, has fuelled a dramatic rise in pet theft and illegal resale.
Buyers often fail to consider that the puppy they are purchasing might have been stolen. It is understandable – for many, the priority is finding the right companion – but the implications can be devastating. When a stolen puppy is identified, the law is clear: the dog will be returned to its rightful owner. That leaves the buyer emotionally bereft, financially out of pocket, and often with no legal recourse to recover their money.
In 2023, the charity DogLost recorded over 2,000 dog thefts reported in the UK. But the true number is likely to be much higher, as many cases go unreported or are misclassified. The issue has become so widespread that, in 2021, the Government announced a new offence of ‘pet abduction’ under the Kept Animals Bill. Although the bill has stalled in Parliament, public and political pressure to address pet theft is growing.
While harsher penalties are part of the solution, prevention remains the most effective safeguard. Petasure works closely with owners and authorities to help verify pet ownership and reunite stolen pets with their families. But we also want to empower buyers to avoid falling into this painful trap in the first place.
If you are considering buying a puppy, here are essential steps to protect yourself, and the dog:
- Check Kennel Club registration
If the breeder claims the litter is registered, verify it directly with the Kennel Club. - Request all paperwork
Ask for the puppy’s registration certificate, vet records, microchip number, and any insurance details. - Match paperwork to the seller’s ID
Ensure names, addresses, and contact details align across all documents. - Contact the seller’s vet
A reputable breeder will not mind you confirming basic details with their veterinary practice. - Visit the breeder’s home
Always see the puppy in its home environment. Never agree to meet in car parks or at service stations. - Meet the puppy’s parents
Seeing the mother with the litter helps confirm the breeder’s legitimacy and the dog’s welfare. - Do not pay a deposit in advance
This is a common tactic used in scams. Only exchange money once you’ve visited the breeder in person. - Be wary of pressure to ‘buy now’
High-pressure tactics are a red flag. A good breeder will let you take your time. - Use Petasure’s “Found a Pet” tool
Our free online tool lets you check if a pet has been reported lost or stolen before you commit. - Trust your instincts
If something feels off, walk away. It is better to miss out than to become part of a heartbreaking case.
Dogs are not commodities – they are family. Let’s make sure they are treated as such at every stage of their journey.
If you’re unsure, the Petasure Support Centre can help guide your decision. Our team is trained to spot red flags and can assist you in verifying sellers and paperwork.
To find out more, or to register your pet with Petasure, visit: petasure.co.uk
Collaborative Content