11 Things Every Dog Owner Should Do to Prevent Pet Theft
Did you know that approximately two million dogs are stolen every year in the United States? Even more alarming, over 80% of them are never recovered. Pet theft isn’t just a rare occurrence. It’s a growing problem, especially for popular breeds that fetch high prices.
Many stolen dogs are sold to breeders, flipped for profit, or, in heartbreaking cases, used for illegal activities. But here’s the good news: you can take steps to protect your dog and drastically reduce the chances of theft. A few smart habits can make all the difference. Being prepared and proactive is the best way to keep your pups safe. Here are all the essential things dog owners should do to prevent pet theft.
Never Leave Your Dog Tied Up Outside a Store
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It only takes a few seconds for someone to unclip a leash and walk away. You wouldn’t leave your wallet sitting on the sidewalk, so why leave your dog unattended? If you need to run errands, take a friend with you or choose pet-friendly stores.
Microchip Your Dog—And Keep It Updated
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Think of a microchip as your dog’s permanent ID card. If your pup ever goes missing, a vet or shelter can scan the chip and get your contact details. Just make sure your info is up to date—an old phone number won’t help get your dog back!
Use a GPS Collar for Extra Security
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Old-school collars are great, but they don’t tell you where your dog is in real-time. A GPS collar enables you to track your dog’s location instantly, which could be life-saving if they’re ever stolen or lost. Bonus: You’ll always know if they’re sneaking off to visit the neighbor’s BBQ!
Be Careful With Strangers Who Ask Too Many Questions
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“What breed is your dog? How much did they cost? Are they fixed?” These might seem like innocent questions, but they can also be red flags. Some thieves scout out potential targets before striking. If someone seems overly interested in your dog, keep your answers vague.
Secure Your Yard—Thieves Love Easy Access
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An open gate or a weak fence is an open invitation for thieves. Make sure your yard is secure with tall fencing, locked gates, and security cameras if possible. Some owners even install motion-activated lights to deter nighttime intruders.
Never Let Your Dog Roam Unattended
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Letting your dog roam off-leash might seem fun, but it comes with serious risks. Unsupervised dogs are easy targets for thieves, especially in public spaces. Always keep an eye on your pup, whether in your yard, at the park, or anywhere outside your home.
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Be Cautious with Dog Sitters and Walkers
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Not all dog walkers and sitters are as trustworthy as they seem. Always use reputable services, check reviews, and if possible, get a referral from someone you trust. Some thieves pose as dog walkers to steal high-value breeds.
Avoid Oversharing on Social Media
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We love showing off our dogs, but so do thieves. Posting about your dog’s daily routine, favorite park, or when they’re home alone could put them at risk. Avoid sharing real-time locations and limit personal details in public posts.
Train a Solid Recall Command
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If your dog runs toward a stranger, you need to be able to call them back—fast. Teaching a strong recall (like “Come!” or “Here!”) helps prevent your dog from running into the wrong hands.
Spay or Neuter Your Dog
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Unfixed dogs are prime targets for breeding operations. Some thieves steal dogs specifically to sell them to illegal breeders. Spaying or neutering not only keeps your pup healthier but also makes them less of a target.
Keep Your Dog’s ID Tags Up to Date
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A lost dog with a tag is far more likely to be returned. Make sure their collar has your current phone number and address. A simple tag can mean the difference between a quick reunion and a heartbreaking loss.
Install Security Cameras if You Have a Yard
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A camera won’t just help catch thieves—it can scare them away before they try anything. If you have a backyard, consider installing a doorbell camera, motion sensor lights, or security cameras to keep an eye on things when you’re not home.
Be Careful With Doggie Daycares and Boarding Facilities
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Not all pet businesses are reputable. Before leaving your dog at a boarding facility or daycare, research their security measures and check online reviews. Some thefts happen right from boarding kennels, so choose wisely.
Walk Different Routes and Change Your Routine
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Predictability makes it easier for thieves to track your movements. If you walk the same route every day at the same time, someone with bad intentions might notice. Switch things up occasionally to keep potential thieves guessing.
Know the Signs of Dog Theft Scams
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Thieves use all kinds of tricks to steal dogs. Some pose as animal control officers, others claim they “found” your dog and demand a ransom. If your dog ever goes missing, report it immediately and be cautious of anyone who contacts you demanding money.