Nottinghamshire Police is to employ a specialist officer to investigate dog thefts.
The force said the new role focussed on canine crime will be introduced following concern about growing cases of dog theft across the country.
Last month Home Secretary Priti Patel pledged to look at measures to tackle “absolutely shocking” pet thefts and to “go after” the thieves who are profiting from the crime.
Nottinghamshire’s deputy police and crime commissioner Emma Foody said: “There is growing alarm – both locally and nationally – over the threat of dog theft.
“This has been fuelled by a number of distressing incidents which have eroded public confidence.”
Chief Inspector Amy Styles-Jones, appointed the dog theft lead, has three pet Chihuahuas called Tink, Jasper and Josie.
She said: “As an animal lover myself I relish the prospect of ensuring we take a compassionate response to the developing situation in regards to dog theft and any animal cruelty.”
