Through a freedom of information request, West Yorkshire Police have disclosed the figures on how many reports of dog thefts it received in each of its Neighbourhood Policing Team districts and what breed of dog was reported stolen.
The figures show that across the whole of West Yorkshire, a total of 243 reports of dog thefts were made in 2022 and 2021, though so far only two have resulted in a charge or summons.
The figures also show that the most stolen breed of dog in 2022 in West Yorkshire was an American Bulldog, while in 2021 it was a French Bulldog.
Below are the figures for what the most reported stolen dog breeds were over both years according to the figures, which included 110 dogs whose breeds were listed as ‘not recorded’ or ‘other’.
1. French Bulldog
The data shows that between 2021 and 2022, 21 French Bulldogs were reported stolen in West Yorkshire. Photo: Matt Cardy/Getty Images Photo: Matt Cardy
2. American Bulldog
The data showed that between 2021 and 2022, 20 American Bulldogs were reported stolen to West Yorkshire Police. Photo: submitted
3. German Shepherd
Seven German Shepherds were reported stolen in West Yorkshire between 2021 and 2022 according to the data. Photo: Lorne Campbell Photo: Lorne Campbell
4. Chihuahua
According to the data, seven Chihuahuas were reported stolen to West Yorkshire Police between 2021 and 2022. Photo: Submitted
5. Patterdale Terrier
Four Patterdale Terriers were reported stolen to West Yorkshire Police between 2021 and 2022. Photo: Stu Norton Photo: Stu Norton
6. Jack Russell Terrier
Four Jack Russell Terrier were reported stolen in West Yorkshire. Photo: Karoline Thalhofer - stock.adobe Photo: K_THALHOFER