The thought of someone stealing another person’s beloved pet is heartbreaking, but the reality is that “dognappings” are becoming increasingly common. As a dog owner, having your furry friend stolen is a major fear. Allowing your dog to be alone in a parked car, playing in your yard, or even at home unsupervised can put them in danger of being snatched in a matter of minutes. This issue is on the rise, with around 2 million dogs falling victim to theft each year in the United States, and only a small percentage of owners managing to recover their pets. While any breed can be targeted, some dog breeds are more commonly at risk than others. Here is a list of the top 10 dog breeds that are most vulnerable to theft, starting with the Chihuahua at number 10.

Despite being small in stature, Chihuahuas boast impressive personalities that rival even those of larger dog breeds. Their adorable appearance and loving demeanor make them a cherished pet choice for many individuals. These pooches are known for their unwavering loyalty and determination to remain by their owners’ side at all times, making them the ideal companion. However, their natural skepticism towards strangers and tendency to bark excessively can be problematic. Furthermore, their miniature size and popularity make them a prime target for theft, which is why Chihuahuas have made it onto our list of top 10 frequently stolen dog breeds. The bulldog, on the other hand, takes the number nine spot on this list.

Bulldogs have captured the hearts of many around the world because of their charming, devoted, and friendly personality. They are loved by both families and individuals due to their irresistible nature. However, their popularity, smaller size, low tendency to bite, and friendly temperament make them easy targets for pet thieves. On the list of dog breeds most susceptible to theft, Golden Retrievers rank at number eight.

The Golden Retriever is a well-liked dog breed that is known for its amiable, sociable, and trusting nature towards people. However, these positive characteristics also make them an easy target for theft, as they may not react defensively or bark when unfamiliar individuals approach them. This makes them more susceptible to being stolen, particularly since they are a highly sought-after breed. Even Golden Retrievers from reputable sources can command a steep price on the illegal market, adding to the likelihood of them being singled out by thieves. Another breed that shares the risk of being snatched is the Shiba Inu.

Shiba Inus are truly unique dogs that stand out in both their personality and appearance, which makes them a favorite among dog enthusiasts. Despite their popularity, this breed is not as commonly found as others. Their rarity and distinctive features also make them a prime target for theft. Shiba Inus can be sold for an exorbitant amount, particularly on the black market, because of their limited supply, and many people are willing to pay a hefty price to own one. Next on the list is the delightful Shih Tzu.

According to the American Shih Tzu Club, the Shih Tzu breed is extremely friendly and affectionate, to the point where they may unknowingly befriend a burglar who enters your home. These furry companions are highly sought by pet owners looking for a faithful companion due to their joyful nature, warm affection, and gentle demeanor. They were originally bred to live in royal palaces and are therefore well-suited to being indoor pets. However, their small size makes them an easy target for theft and dognappers can quickly transport them away. The original article did not mention anything about Siberian Huskies.

The Siberian Husky is a popular and valuable breed that can be sold for a hefty price, reaching up to $6000. This is due to their alluring appearance, especially their captivating blue eyes, which makes them a favorite among dog lovers. Tragically, they are often targeted by thieves because of their stunning looks and friendly personality. Despite resembling wolves, they are actually very sociable and don’t pose a threat to unfamiliar people. The German Shepherd ranks fourth on our list.

For many years, the German Shepherd has been a top favorite among dog breeds across the globe. But with great popularity comes a sad reality: they are highly vulnerable to theft due to their remarkable characteristics. Even though they’re known for being fiercely protective of their owners and territory, young German Shepherds are easy prey for thieves. These adorable pooches can fetch a pretty penny on the black market, making them a prime target for dognappers. The Labrador Retriever is another frequently stolen breed that follows closely behind the German Shepherd in terms of popularity.

Labrador Retrievers have been the most popular dog breed in America for the past three decades, according to the American Kennel Club. These furry friends are known for their affectionate and sociable personality, making them an ideal companion for many people. Not only are Labs great pets, but they also serve as therapy, rescue, and guide dogs, making them a prime target for theft. Their love for food can make it easy for strangers to lure them away with treats. Sadly, Labs can fetch a high price on the black market, making them a desirable choice for thieves seeking to make a quick buck. The second most popular dog breed is the Yorkshire Terrier.

The Yorkshire Terrier is an adorable and charming dog breed that has won the hearts of many pet owners. However, this popularity also makes them a prime target for dog-napping. These dogs are known for their sociable nature, making them quick to make new friends. Their intelligence allows them to learn new tricks with ease, and their low shedding coat makes them a highly sought-after breed among dog enthusiasts. Furthermore, their irresistible cuteness only adds to their allure. As a result of their small size and outgoing personality, it comes as no surprise that they are the second most stolen breed, following the French Bulldog who takes the number one spot on the list.

French Bulldogs have overtaken Labradors as the most sought-after dog breed in 2022. Despite their adorable and compact appearance, these dogs are also the most commonly stolen breed, according to AKC reports. With their rising demand, Frenchies’ expensive price tags make them ideal targets for pet thieves. Even Lady Gaga’s two Frenchies were reported stolen in 2021. Their rare colors can fetch even higher prices, making them easy to sell for a profit. To ensure your pet’s safety, Tom Sharp, AKC Reunite’s CEO, recommends microchipping your dog, refraining from sharing too much information about your pet online, and never leaving your dog unattended. If your dog gets stolen, report it to the authorities and your local pet recovery service, post lost-pet notices, and inform your community. Being cautious and vigilant is always better than dealing with the aftermath of pet theft.