Dog thefts on rise in France: what breeds are being targeted and where

Dog thefts and losses are on the rise in France, with more than 20,000 reported lost in 2023, particularly in regions such as Ile-de-France, the national identification database has warned.

Figures from the I-CAD (the national identification register for pet dogs, cats, and ferrets) show that 20,454 animals were reported lost in 2023. Many of these ‘losses’ are actually thought to be thefts.

Read also: What is I-CAD? France’s pet database explained 
Read also: How do I register my pet with I-CAD in France? 

The authority has also said that since the start of October, five dogs have been reported stolen in the Ile-de-France region.

These figures are also likely to downplay the scale of the issue as many owners may not report the theft of their pet, the I-CAD said.

Read also: How do I change my pet’s details on French I-CAD database? 
Read also: Pet thefts on rise in France: what to do if it happens to your animal 

Which breeds are most likely to be stolen?

Pure breeds (those easily identified, and not mixed or crossed) are most likely to be stolen, as they may fetch higher prices on the black market and produce pure-breed puppies that can be sold for more.

However, there can be many different motivations for stealing pets, said Cécile, a pet welfare volunteer, to BFMTV.

“‘It can also be anything to do with fighting dogs [dogs being stolen for illegal dog fights], and dogs can be stolen for begging,” she said. 

People with no fixed address may steal dogs for several reasons. Sometimes having a dog next to them on the street sparks more sympathy among passers-by, who may give more money. Similarly, those who do not want to be moved into shelters may keep dogs, because some shelters do not allow them.

They may also be looking for companionship, and not have the means to buy or rescue a dog using the normal channels.

Read also: Fake rescue workers snatch dogs on walks in southern France 

What does the law say about stolen pets?

Since 2015, dogs have been considered as ‘sentient living beings’ in the French code civil. However, the criminal law code still sees them as “objects”, and there is no specific status for animals. 

This means that from a legal point of view, stealing a dog is seen as similar to stealing a handbag; the sanction for which is a prison sentence up to three years, and a fine of up to €45,000.

How to avoid pet theft in France

Owners are warned to be alert when walking their dogs in public places or busy parks, and to only let their dog off a lead if they are able to see them at all times, and the animal has 100% reliable recall. This will limit the chances that the dog could be taken by an opportunistic thief. 

It is mandatory for dog owners in France to register with the I-CAD.

Pet owners are also urged to microchip their animals, as it can help lost, stolen, and stray animals to be tracked down and found in case they go missing. It also makes it easier for authorities to track unregulated breeders, collect animal population data, and attribute health test results correctly.

Cats and dogs can be identified with a microchip, a tattoo, or both forms of identification. Microchips are the most common form of identification to be offered by vets in France today, and are the only form of ID accepted if you wish to travel with your pet.

Pet identification microchips are around the size of a grain of rice, and are inserted under the skin of an animal in the neck or between the shoulder blades. Each microchip contains a code with 15 numbers that can be identified by an electric reader.

Microchips are biocompatible, non-magnetic, non-electric, and do not affect the health of animals. They must be inserted by a registered vet. The procedure costs around €40-€70 depending on the veterinary practice owners choose to use.

More information on microchipping in France, and the I-CAD pet identification database, is available on the official website Identifier-mon-animal.fr.