Top Reasons Why People Steal Dogs

Sometimes we need to leave our dogs for a time. We expect them to come back exactly where they left us. It doesn’t matter if you leave them outside in your yard, or if you take them to the store for a quick run. Finding your dog missing from your home is a nightmare for pet owners. You have been the victim of pet theft.

As the economy fluctuates, pet theft is becoming a more serious problem.

Here are the top 4 reasons dogs get stolen:

1. Type of breed

The most common victim of theft is purebred dogs, whose pedigrees can be worth thousands. A thief can easily make some quick cash and not suffer any serious consequences. Most dogs stolen are puppies, toy dogs, and designer dogs. A dognapper can often sell the dog at half the cost of a reputable breeder while still making good money.

2. Selling to Puppy Mills

It is painful to consider that dog theft happens all the time because people are looking for an extra dollar. These dogs are often stolen by thieves who sell them to puppy mills, which will then breed the dogs. Another reason to spay or neuter your dog is that they are more likely to be stolen.

3. Reward Program

People steal dogs because they know the family will pay a large reward for their beloved pets’ return.

4. Dog Fighting

Your dog could be taken to be trained to fight or as a bait dog. This is a terrible fate. Doberman Pinschers and Pit Bull Terriers are the most popular breeds that fall for this. Although you may not have thought that your choice of breed could increase your chances of becoming a victim of dog theft, it is a fact.

What it comes down to

Although it may not seem like a good cause, most dog thefts are motivated by money. The well-being of the dog is not what thieves steal from their families. While there are many reasons why they might have made this bad decision, it was ultimately the best choice for them. This is heartbreaking and sad but it’s a stark reality of our world.

Tips to Protect Your Pets From Being Stolen

• When you are away, keep your pets inside.
• Your dog should be supervised at all times.
• When walking your dog, keep them on a leash.
• Make sure your animals are properly identified by using microchips and ID tags.
• All animals should be spayed or neutered
• When returning an animal to its guardians, ask for proof of ownership.
• Pay attention to strangers around your neighborhood.
• All suspicious activity should be reported to the police

Last Thoughts

If everything were perfect, animal abuse and theft would be non-existent. Unfortunately, this is not the reality that we live in. If your pet is missing, contact the police immediately and spread the word. You can find your pet more easily if you know what to look out for.