West Midlands Police have issued an urgent warning to dog owners after new figures revealed that only four people were prosecuted for nearly 300 dog thefts over the past four years.
Alarming Statistics
The force investigated 291 cases of stolen pets between 2022 and 2025, but a suspect could not be identified in more than a third of them. Problems with evidence accounted for a lack of progress in 169 cases.
Just four suspects were taken to court: two in 2023 and one each in 2024 and 2025. One case was resolved through a community resolution.
Peak Year and Breed Details
The peak year for thefts was 2022, when 98 dogs were reported stolen. Last year, 66 dogs were taken, but the breed was recorded in only two offences: a Dachshund and a Dogue de Bordeaux.
Police have warned that dogs are being targeted by criminals as demand for certain breeds increases. The Metropolitan Police stated: 'Criminals target dogs knowing they can sell them on to make money.'
Advice for Dog Owners
Owners are advised to fit their dogs with collars and ensure they are tagged. If a pet goes missing, owners should first check with friends or relatives who may have access to the dog.
When contacting police, owners should provide as much information as possible, including:
- A description of the dog, including name and microchip number
- Dates and times when the dog was last seen
- The circumstances around the dog's disappearance
- Contact names and numbers of anyone who may have access to the dog
- Descriptions of people or vehicles seen acting suspiciously in the area
The figures were released by West Midlands Police under the Freedom of Information Act.
