LONDON is the dog theft capital of Britain, a map shows.

There were 422 thefts reported to the Metropolitan Police last year, its figures reveal.

And the number of dogs stolen hit a record 2,760 across Englandand Wales, up 13 per cent from 2,438 in 2020.

London's figure is more than double the reports to West Yorkshire Police, which had the second highest number at 199.

Kent Police received 182, Lancashire Constabulary had 116 and South Yorkshire Police had 100.

Dyfed-Powys Police and forces in Essex, Northumbria, Northamptonshire and Derbyshire were also in the top ten for reported dog thefts.

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Meanwhile, French Bulldogs and Jack Russell Terriers were the most nabbed canines.

Some 45 French Bulldogs were taken last year, 29 per cent up on the 35 stolen the year before.

And 24 Jack Russells were reported stolen last year, up 140 per cent on the 10 in 2020.

American Bulldogs, Chihuahuas and Pugs were also among the most stolen dogs, Direct Line Pet Insurance found.

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Staffordshire Bull Terriers, which were last year’s most popular target for thieves, saw an 88 per cent fall in 2021 pushing them down to seventh.

Veterinary Nurse Madeline Pike said: “It’s devastating to see the number of dogs stolen continues to increase across the country.

"Unfortunately, the increase in dog ownership since the pandemic began and the subsequent rise in prices of these animals seems to make the crime even more appealing to thieves.

"The law will soon recognise dogs as members of the family with feelings, not just owned property and we hope that this will deter criminals, especially if they can be punished more severely if prosecuted.

“Anyone considering buying a dog should thoroughly check its provenance and see the dog with its mother, to ensure they’re not buying from a criminal organisation.

"And taking simple precautions such as not leaving your dog tied up outside a shop, left inside an empty car or keeping it on the lead when in busy areas, will help reduce the likelihood of being targeted.

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"It’s also vital to keep microchipping contact details up to date in case your dog does go missing and is handed in.”

Lincolnshire and Surrey Police had the least stolen dog reports, with 10 each last year.

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