Losing a pet is every dog owner’s worst nightmare. It’s not just about a missing collar or an open gate — the idea that someone might actually steal your furry friend is truly heartbreaking. Sadly, it’s happening more often than many realize.
The Conversation reported that dognapping, the canine version of kidnapping, has surged across the U.S. Losing a pet can be devastating, and it’s a crime that has repercussions that go far beyond the animal’s financial value.
Many dog owners view their dogs as members of their family, and their loss carries a similar emotional impact to that of losing a loved one.
Why are dogs being targeted? Thieves often target pups that appear luxurious, are easy to handle, or have high resale or breeding value.
It’s a cruel mix of opportunity and profit. Even more unsettling, many dogs are taken right from their own yards, during walks, or even from parked cars.
While no dog is ever completely “safe” from theft, certain breeds catch a thief’s eye more than others. Let’s take a look at seven of the most luxurious and frequently stolen dog breeds — and why they’re so irresistible to thieves.
Key Takeaways
Discover which luxurious dog breeds are most at risk of being stolen and why thieves find them so irresistible.
Learn surprising facts about each breed’s history, charm, and the traits that unfortunately make them targets.
Understand how dognapping has become a growing problem in the U.S., with thefts rising sharply in recent years.
See how a mix of popularity, price, and pure affection has turned some of our most beloved pets into prime targets for criminals.
Luxurious Dog Breeds Often Targeted by Thieves
1. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs may be small, but they’ve captured huge hearts worldwide. Despite their fancy name, they’re not originally from France. These adorable pups actually hail from England, where they were bred as compact companions for lace makers.
Known for their bat-like ears, wrinkly faces, and affectionate nature, Frenchies thrive on human company and love being the center of attention.
Why They’re Targeted
Sadly, their fame and friendly personality make them one of the most stolen dog breeds.
Easy to carry: Their small size makes them simple to snatch and hide.
High resale value: French Bulldogs can sell for thousands of dollars, making them a quick payday for criminals.
Huge demand: With their spot at the top of the AKC’s most popular breeds list, there’s always someone eager to buy a Frenchie—sometimes unaware it’s stolen.
The Downside of Being Adorable
French Bulldogs are the toast of the canine world, often seen as status symbols or “fashion pets.” Unfortunately, that popularity has turned them into prime targets.
Their gentle, trusting nature means they rarely resist strangers—making it all too easy for thieves. For owners, extra caution and awareness are key to keeping these lovable companions safe.
2. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever has been America’s sweetheart for decades. Holding the title of most popular dog for decades, this loyal breed is known for its big heart and gentle personality.
Despite the name, Labradors didn’t come from Labrador at all! AKC mentions that they were originally bred in Newfoundland, where fishermen used them to help retrieve nets and fish. Even today, they are used as therapy dogs, guide dogs, and for search-and-rescue missions.
Why They’re Targeted
Labs are friendly, trusting, and easy to approach, which sadly makes them vulnerable. Their good nature and popularity make them appealing not just to families, but also to thieves looking to make quick money.
Easy to lure: They love people and are more likely to wag their tails than bark at a stranger.
High demand: They’re beloved family dogs and service animals, so there’s always a market.
Versatile and valuable: Thieves sometimes steal them for resale, breeding, or even training for illegal activities.
Victims of Their Own Sweetness
Labradors are known for their warm hearts and loyalty, which makes them wonderful pets—but also easy targets. Their friendly nature can work against them when faced with someone who doesn’t have good intentions. For such loving dogs, it’s heartbreaking that their trust can be so easily taken advantage of.
3. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is one of the most intelligent and dependable breeds in the world. Known for their bravery and loyalty, these dogs are trusted partners in police, military, and service work. Their sharp minds and quick learning abilities make them stand out in almost any task.
Why They’re Targeted
You might think their size would protect them, but that’s not always the case. German Shepherds are highly valued for their intelligence and versatility, which sadly makes them appealing to thieves.
High demand: They’re useful as guard or working dogs, which makes them profitable.
Illegal breeding: Some are taken to produce litters for quick sales.
Criminal use: Thieves sometimes use them as guard dogs for illegal activities.
Easy Targets When Young
While adult German Shepherds can seem intimidating, puppies are especially vulnerable. Their smaller size and playful nature make them easier for thieves to take.
Sadly, even their trusting loyalty—one of their best traits—can work against them. Whether as loyal companions or hardworking protectors, German Shepherds deserve the same protection they so willingly give their humans.
4. Maltese
The Maltese is one of the oldest-known dog breeds, believed to be around 2,800 years old. These elegant little dogs once graced the laps of kings and queens during the Classical Era.
They were so adored that royals often fed them from gold dishes and even featured them in paintings and tombs. Small but fearless, the Maltese has always been a symbol of luxury and love.
Why They’re Targeted
With their beautiful coats and charming personalities, it’s no wonder Maltese dogs turn heads. Unfortunately, their tiny size and high value also make them tempting to thieves.
Easy to carry away: Their small size makes them simple targets.
High resale value: Their beauty and popularity fetch high prices.
Luxury appeal: Their glamorous looks make them a “status pet.”
Elegant but Vulnerable
Orvis mentions that Maltese dogs may look delicate, but they’re alert and brave watchdogs who will bark if they sense danger. Still, their size makes it hard for them to defend themselves.
These sweet, trusting pups are happiest by their owner’s side—and that loyalty is exactly why they deserve extra protection from those who might see them as just another pretty prize.
5. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is often described as a living teddy bear — small, fluffy, and irresistibly cute. Originally bred to be lapdogs for Chinese royalty, they were pampered companions who lived in palaces and were treated like treasures.
With their hypoallergenic coats and sweet personalities, Shih Tzus are still adored today for their charm and affectionate nature.
Why They’re Targeted
Sadly, the same qualities that make them so lovable also make them targets for thieves. Their small size and gentle demeanor make them easy to snatch, and their popularity keeps demand high.
Compact and portable: Easy to pick up and hide quickly.
High resale value: Purebred Shih Tzus with rare coat colors can fetch a big price.
Friendly nature: They’re more likely to greet strangers than fear them.
Too Sweet for Their Own Good
Shih Tzus thrive on love and attention, always wanting to be close to people. Unfortunately, that trust can make them vulnerable to theft.
Their calm and social personality means they might happily go with someone new without realizing the danger. For owners, keeping an eye on these tiny companions is the best way to protect their little royal hearts.
6. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua may be tiny, but don’t let its size fool you — this breed is full of sass and spirit. Known as the world’s smallest breed, Chihuahuas have huge personalities packed into a pint-sized body.
They’re fiercely loyal, affectionate, and protective of their families, often showing more courage than dogs ten times their size.
Why They’re Targeted
Sadly, their small stature and popularity make them prime targets for dog thieves. Their size makes them easy to grab and conceal, and their popularity in cities means there’s always demand.
Tiny and easy to carry: Perfect for quick snatching without attention.
Trendy and easily sold: Many people view them as “handbag dogs” or stylish companions.
High resale potential: Purebred or rare-colored Chihuahuas can sell fast for good money.
Bold but Vulnerable
Chihuahuas might bark loudly and act brave, but their small frame puts them at risk. These small dogs adore their owners and often become anxious around strangers — yet that doesn’t always stop determined thieves.
Their mix of loyalty, cuteness, and portability makes them both loved and, unfortunately, sought after for the wrong reasons.
7. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, lovingly called the Yorkie, is elegance wrapped in a tiny, energetic body. With their long, silky coats and confident personalities, Yorkies turn heads wherever they go.
Surprisingly, these dainty dogs weren’t always lap companions. According to Purina, they were originally bred in the 17th century to hunt and kill rats in coal mines! Their sharp hearing and keen sense of smell made them fearless little exterminators long before they became fashionable pets.
Why They’re Targeted
Today, Yorkies are seen as stylish city pets, adored for their charm and compact size. Unfortunately, those same qualities make them prime targets for thieves.
Small and portable: Easy for criminals to pick up and disappear with.
High resale value: Purebred Yorkies can sell for impressive sums.
Trendy appeal: Their luxurious look and popularity keep demand high.
Precious but Vulnerable
Despite their feisty bark and bold attitude, Yorkies are still too small to defend themselves. Their trusting nature and sociable personality make them easy targets for opportunists.
Losing one isn’t just about money — it’s the heartbreak of losing a loyal friend who brings endless joy and energy into a home.
Conclusion
Dognapping isn’t just a heartbreaking loss — in many states, it’s considered grand theft because family pets are cherished members of the household, not possessions. Sadly, many owners don’t realize how susceptible their dogs can be until it’s too late.
Most thieves act out of greed, driven by the growing desire for rare or luxurious breeds that can be sold quickly or used for breeding. Thankfully, animal lovers, animal rescue groups, and animal shelters are working tirelessly to reunite stolen dogs with their families.
Staying aware, using microchips, and keeping identification tags up to date can make all the difference. When our love, vigilance, and community efforts are combined, we can give our pets the safe and happy life they deserve.
