Dog Theft Law in Scotland: What’s Changed and How It Compares Across the UK
Dog theft has long been a deeply distressing crime for owners, with pets treated legally as property rather than recognised as sentient companions. Over recent years, growing public concern and campaigning have led to significant legal reform across the UK — and Scotland has now taken an important step forward.
A new standalone offence in Scotland
In December 2025, the Scottish Parliament passed the Dog Theft (Scotland) Bill, creating a specific criminal offence of dog theft for the first time. Previously, dog theft in Scotland was prosecuted under general theft laws, which failed to recognise the emotional harm caused to owners or the welfare impact on the animal.
The new legislation recognises dogs as sentient beings rather than simply property. Under the updated law, those convicted of dog theft in Scotland could face custodial sentences of up to five years, fines, or both, depending on the severity of the offence. This marks a significant shift in how the justice system views crimes involving companion animals.
How Scotland now compares with the rest of the UK
Scotland’s move brings it more closely into line with legislation already in place elsewhere in the UK.
In England and Northern Ireland, the Pet Abduction Act 2024 came into force in August 2024. This Act created a specific offence of pet abduction, covering dogs and cats, and similarly allows for penalties of up to five years’ imprisonment and/or a fine. Crucially, the Act acknowledges the emotional distress caused to owners and the welfare implications for the animals involved.
Although it’s still early days, there are reported examples of the legislation being used in court. A case at Hull Crown Court was described as a prosecution under the Act suggesting that law enforcement and prosecutors are beginning to apply the new offence.
However, animal welfare legislation is devolved, meaning laws do not automatically apply across the UK. Until now, Scotland had no equivalent standalone offence. With the passing of the Dog Theft (Scotland) Bill, Scotland is now aligned in principle with England and Northern Ireland in recognising the seriousness of dog theft.
Wales currently remains covered by existing theft legislation, although discussions around further reform continue.
Why this matters for pet professionals
For pet professionals, including dog walkers, trainers, groomers, boarding providers and canine assisted therapy providers, these changes are more than just legal technicalities.
Firstly, clearer legislation helps reinforce public understanding that dogs are not interchangeable possessions. This supports professionals when explaining safeguarding measures, collection policies, secure handovers, and risk management to clients.
Secondly, stronger penalties act as a deterrent. While no law can eliminate dog theft entirely, recognising it as a serious, specific offence sends a clear message that crimes involving companion animals will be treated with appropriate gravity.
Thirdly, this legal recognition supports welfare-first practice. Stolen dogs often experience stress, fear, poor handling, inadequate care, or illegal resale. Laws that acknowledge harm beyond financial loss help shift attitudes toward better protection and prevention.
