MORE than a dozen dogs were reported stolen in Cheshire last year, figures reveal.

A missing pets charity said an increase in dog thefts across the UK is linked to the coronavirus pandemic, and warned new owners might accidentally be buying stolen dogs.

Cheshire Police recorded 19 dog thefts in 2021, according to a Freedom of Information request from Direct Line Pet Insurance.

The National Police Chiefs Council announced this week that there has been a 'considerable rise' in the cost of a puppy over the pandemic, but said this demand is now starting to decrease as people return to more of a normal living pattern.

Chief superintendent Gareth Wrigley said: “As the force lead for pet theft, I would like to draw attention to this concerning and emotional crime type.

"Nationally, regionally and locally we are proud to say that reports of crime are low but must be cognisant that one theft of a puppy or dog can lead to intense social media scrutiny. 

“Please also keep an eye on your neighbourhood and report any suspicious activity to us so that we can make Cheshire a no-go area for dog thieves.”

Across the UK, 2,077 dogs were reported stolen to 35 police forces which responded to the FOI request – though Direct Line Pet Insurance estimates the real figure to be as high as 2,760.

Although still low, the estimate was up from 2,438 in 2020 and the highest number since their records began in 2015.

Madeline Pike, veterinary nurse for Direct Line Pet Insurance, said: “It’s devastating to see the number of dogs stolen continue to increase across the country.

"Unfortunately, the increase in dog ownership since the pandemic began and the subsequent rise in prices of these animals seems to make the crime even more appealing to thieves."

She said dog owners should take precautions such as keeping their pets on a lead when in busy areas and avoiding leaving a dog tied up outside a shop or left inside an empty car.

Cheshire Police advises to check your social media privacy settings when uploading pictures of your pet and puppy sellers should be aware of how they are advertising their puppies - this can attract the attention of criminals looking to target sellers.

Residents should also be aware and stay vigilant of strangers on dog walks and always be vigilant of anyone acting suspiciously or watching your dog.

Conduct proper research when using dog sitters or kennels and always check references and make sure you’re using a reputable company.

Despite the concern on dog thefts across the UK, the proportion of pooches returned to their owners rose last year to 22 per cent.

In Cheshire, nine of 19 dogs were returned home.

The Stolen and Missing Pets Alliance said the demand for dogs during lockdown caused a ‘huge spike’ in them being stolen for breeding, with their value also increasing.

Debbie Matthews, chief executive of the charity, said: "Dogs were also essentially being stolen ‘to order’ for people who were looking for a certain breed, but would never know they were receiving a stolen dog.

"We would always recommend that a new owner gets the pet’s microchip registration checked as soon as possible."

Direct Line Pet Insurance said French bulldogs were the most stolen breed in 2021, followed by Jack Russells, chihuahuas and pugs.