There have been over 11 dognappings in D.C. so far this year, and the thieves are going after one breed in particular - French Bulldogs. We chatted with reporter (and Frenchie owner) Mimi Montgomery about how to keep your pup safe.
What Dogs Are Most At Risk?
Designer dogs, especially small ones, are the most targeted. The microchip company American Kennel Club said French Bulldogs have been their number one reported stolen breed since 2020.
How To Minimize The Risk of Dognapping
Although these robberies are random and tragic, there are a few things you can do to help protect you and your pup:
- Walk your dog in high traffic areas.
- Don’t leave your dog unattended.
- Don’t walk with headphones in.
- Get your dog microchipped or use an air tag.
- Opt for a shorter, non-retractable leash.
- Place a personal alarm on your dog’s collar.
- Take good, recognizable pictures of your dog to help recover them if they are stolen.
Avoid leaving your dog unattended! (ilbusca/Getty Images)
What To Do If Your Dog Is Taken
D.C. Police advise that if someone threatens to take your dog, although it's hard, hand them over. Try to get a good look at the perpetrator and then call the police. Hand them those pictures you took earlier and any other information. Second, alert the microchip company so they can send a blast to local vets and get the word out. In many cases, D.C. police have been able to recover the stolen dogs. So don’t panic!
How To Avoid Buying a Stolen Dog
If you’re in the market for a dog – especially a small or designer dog – ask yourself: is this too good of a deal? If the price is low, you should be suspicious. Make sure to ask for paperwork and previous vet records. If they don’t have that, that’s red flag number two. Finally, Google it! Is the person you’re buying from a reputable breeder? Do they have a website? If everything checks out, then take that good boy home!
