Dog theft in France is soaring. Animal protection groups estimate that up to 70,000 dogs are stolen each year – nearly 200 a day. The scale of the problem is staggering, and it’s getting worse.
Small, high-value breeds are the main targets. French Bulldogs, Pugs, Chihuahuas and Siberian Huskies are among the most frequently stolen. A purebred French Bulldog can sell for up to €2,500 on the black market. Some are resold within hours. Others are trafficked to illegal breeding operations.
It is not only dogs that are disappearing. Cats, particularly purebreds, are increasingly being targeted as well. According to animal welfare organisations, the number of cat thefts is rising in parallel with dogs. Breeds such as Maine Coons, Bengals and Persians are especially sought after. Like dogs, stolen cats are resold or used for breeding, with little chance of recovery. The surge in demand for pets following the Covid lockdowns has only fuelled the trade.
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