THE number of dogs stolen across Dorset has increased over the past 12 months, reflecting a national trend.

In Dorset 28 dogs were reported stolen last year, compared to 12 in 2016 - an increase of 133% per cent.

In March 2017, a 10-month-old greyhound and whippet cross was stolen from the Peatons Lane area of Lytchett Matravers.

Across Britain the number of reported stolen dogs has risen by 6.8 per cent in a year, with an average of five dogs reported stolen every single day in 2017.

The information was obtained by Direct Line pet insurance through a Freedom of Information Request to the UK’s police forces.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is the most stolen breed of dog, with 210 stolen across Britain in 2017. Cross-breeds remain the second most stolen dog breed, coinciding with the rise in popularity of breeds like cockerpoos and puggles, with 82 cross-breed dogs reported as stolen in 2017.

The research found that the Metropolitan Police Service recorded the highest number of stolen dogs of the UK’s police forces in 2017, with 225 reports received. This was followed by West Yorkshire Police, with 172 reports of stolen dogs, and Kent Police, with 160 reports.

At the other end of the scale, Cheshire Constabulary received just four reports of stolen dogs in 2017, followed by Surrey Police, with eight and Derbyshire Constabulary with 11.

Prit Powar, head of pet insurance at Direct Line, said: “Having your dog stolen is one of the most distressing things a pet owner can face, particularly as animals are often considered to be members of the family. There is no excuse for the theft of an animal but some of the reasons behind dog theft include using the animal for dog fighting, breeding or selling on.

“The rise in popularity of ‘designer’ dog breeds among celebrities and the ‘fashion’ for certain types of dogs means people are willing to pay thousands for an animal, which unfortunately makes them prime targets for thieves. Pedigree owners need to be especially vigilant.”

Direct Line’s research did, however, uncover some positive news, as the number of dogs returned to their owners also rose in 2017 from 365 to 388. In Dorset, 28 of the 20 stolen dogs reported in 2017 were returned to their owner - with three of the 12 stolen in 2016 returned.

A Dorset Police spokesman said: “Reported theft of dogs has increased nationally and is a very impactive crime, which can often leave victims very distressed and upset. It is important to recognise that while reported offences have increased in Dorset, we are thankfully still talking about relatively low numbers.

“Dorset Police will investigate any legitimate lines of enquiry in a bid to help owners to be reunited with their pet.”