PET THEFT

AKC Reunite lost pet reporting data cites dog thefts
in the United States are up 34% over the last five years (2025 compared to 2020).

“Microchip your pet and keep a close eye on her.”

Tom Sharp, President and CEO of AKC Reunite

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As seen on Good Morning America

As seen on WJW Fox 8 Cleveland

BE AWARE AND NEVER LEAVE YOUR PET ALONE

It only takes a minute for your pet to be stolen in plain sight.

01

WHEN OUT IN PUBLIC

Never leave your dog tied up outside a storefront or alone in a car with the windows down or even when the car is running with the AC on while you’re running a quick errand.

02

FROM YOUR OWN YARD

If your yard is accessible or visible to strangers keep a watchful eye on your pet when it is outside — or even better, stay outside with them.

03

DURING OFF-LEASH WALKS

Your dog may be well-behaved off their leash, but nappers can easily corral your pet if it wanders too far.

COMMON PET THEFT TARGETS

Any pet can be stolen for resale or to be used in illegal fighting rings, but some types of dogs are more commonly targeted.

  • French Bulldog
  • Yorkshire Terrier

  • Labrador Retriever

  • German Shepherd
  • Siberian Husky

  • Shih Tzu

  • English Bulldog

  • Golden Retriever

  • Bulldog

  • Pitbull

  • Chihuahua

  • Shiba Inu

MICROCHIP AND ENROLL YOUR PET FOR THEIR PROTECTION

Make sure you have a photo of you and your pet together along with your pet’s microchip and vet records help prove ownership.

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR PET HAS GONE MISSING

As soon as your pet goes missing or you fear it is stolen, get the word out!

TAKE ACTION RIGHT AWAY