As dog thefts in the UK soar, GoCompare is urging dog owners to check their pet insurance policies to ensure they are financially protected should someone steal their beloved four-legged friend.

Such is the demand for a canine companion since the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns that the price of some breeds of puppies has more than doubled.

Animal welfare charities have warned these sorts of high prices could encourage "puppy farming", smuggling or dog theft, with Dog Lost, an organisation that helps reunite pets with their owners, estimating dog thefts have increased by 250 percent since March 2020.

Only 25% of policies cover for loss or theft of a dog of £1,500 or more and 21% of policies for dogs with a value of between £1,000 to £1,499.

Sally Jaques, of GoCompare Pet Insurance, said: “Many people who have always dreamed of owning a dog took the plunge while they were spending so much time at home during lockdown which is why the price of dogs has risen so sharply.

"Worryingly, that rise has coincided with an increased number of dogs going missing, presumed stolen, so it’s crucial pet owners make sure they know what they are covered for on their pet insurance policy, should the worst happen."

Isle of Wight County Press:

Tips for protecting your dog from theft:

  • Get it microchipped and keep those details updated.
  • Only leave your dog alone in your garden if it is secure and your dog isn’t visible.
  • Consider fitting a bell to the gate so you can hear it opening and closing.
  • Think twice about leaving your dog tied alone outside a shop.
  • Don’t leave your dog alone in a car, even for a few minutes. 
  • Ensure it has a home address and a contact number on a tag on its collar.