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6 Secure Ways to Prevent Dog Theft

Written by Adrian Worthington, published 06-03-21

The demand for puppies has never been higher in the UK. And it’s largely thanks to coronavirus! Stuck indoors, desperate for company and something to put a smile on our face, we’ve been snapping up these lovable rogues like never before.

In lockdown last year, for instance, the Kennel Club saw a 168% jump in the number of people looking to buy a pet pup! Unfortunately, what should be a happy affair is being shrouded by a practice that’s altogether more sinister. The same source reveals how this rising interest in puppies has sparked an increase in dog theft too.

Innocent dog owners around the country are being targeted by opportunistic thieves seeking to exploit the demand and turn a profit. Can’t bear the thought of having your beloved pooch stolen from under your nose? Well, this post should make a difference!

Today we’re going through 6 dog walking safety tips to protect your dog from theft.

1. Never Leave Your Dog Alone

We’ve all been there. You’re out walking your dog when you realize you need something from the local shop. The only trouble?

You can’t take the dog inside! With no other choice, you tie your pooch up and head on in, leaving them alone outside. As you can imagine, this is a dream come true for any dog thief who happens to be in the area.

All they have to do is untie the lead, pick up the dog, and walk away! If nobody in the area knows it’s yours, then they’re unlikely to be challenged. Avoid this awful fate by never leaving them alone (outside shops, in unattended vehicles, and so on) when you’re out in public.

2. Get Your Dog Microchipped

Aside from abiding by UK law, microchipping your dog’s another sensible step in the fight against thieves. Imagine what would happen if you chose not to and the worst ended up happening. Any dog thief in question could get away scot-free!

With no microchip, you wouldn’t be able to track your puppy down. You’d be left doing a manual search, with a limited chance of success. By comparison, having a chip with your up-to-date contact information makes it:

• Far easier to find out where the dog’s been taken, and
• More likely that someone will return it when they realize the situation.

3. Purchase a Dog Theft Protection Device

The grim reality of dog theft is that it often happens in public and broad daylight. Look at what happened to Lady Gaga’s dog walker last week! They were set upon by thieves and shot in the chest before her three pedigree pets were stolen (they were later returned to police).

Thankfully, it’s rare for dog thefts to be that extreme in the UK. But they’re still terrifying, unexpected affairs that leave dog owners in a state of shock. And that’s why we recommend investing in a dog anti-theft device to take along on walks.

A dog theft protection alarm, for example, is an effective way to stop a thief in their tracks. They’ll be shocked by the sudden jarring noise and fearful of the attention it’ll bring. With any luck, they’ll flee the scene as a result and allow you to stay safe when walking your dog.

4. Secure Your Garden

Staying safe when you’re walking your dog is all-important. But it’s always worth taking action at home as well. Some thieves will wait until your dog’s in the garden and nobody else is around before striking, so it’s imperative that your front and/or back garden’s as secure as possible (especially if your dog sleeps outside in a kennel at night).

Start by ensuring your garden fence is strong, tall, and ‘hole-free’ to make it harder for someone to get in and your dog to escape. You could then add a bell to the front gate so you hear when somebody comes through it. And why not install a security camera to help you keep an eye on your dog(s) and record would-be thieves in the act?

5. Photograph Your Dog

Most dog owners are so besotted with their pooches that they’ve got a thousand photos of them already. On the off chance you don’t, though, then we recommend rectifying the situation ASAP. Having up-to-date photos of your dog won’t stop it from being stolen, but it will help you create accurate ‘missing’ posters, list your dog on the missing pets bureau, and prove you’re the owner if/when the dog’s found.

Not all photos are made equal though! Take clear snaps from all angles that portray exactly what your hound looks like. Pay special attention to identifying traits as well (such as distinct markings, characteristics, and other distinguishing features).

6. Train Your Dog to Come

You can’t beat a well-trained dog! They’ll walk to heel, sit on command, and, most crucial of all, return to your side when you call them. That final part’s a big deal when it comes to keeping them in your line of sight and away from anyone who means them harm.

Consider keeping your dog on an extendable lead if they’re still learning to come back when called. This gives them the freedom to explore when you’re out and about, without ever letting them get too far away. Your dog will remain within sight and easy reach at all times, making it harder for thieves to commit their crime.

Don’t Forget These Ways to Prevent Dog Theft

Puppies have been so popular in the UK! Whether it’s a result of the lockdown or their general lovability, people are buying them up at a startling rate right now. Alas, this heightened demand has given rise to increased rates of dog theft too.

We hope the tips in this article will help you (and your pet pooch) avoid that awful fate. Bear them in mind and you should be one step closer to keeping your beautiful puppy safe.

However, the real secret to success is heeding these insights and taking preventative action thereafter! With that in mind, click here to shop our full catalogue of personal protection alarms and acquire a safety alarm for dog walking now.

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