Police Scotland has released a guide for dog owners looking to protect their pets following the rise of dog thefts across the country.
The advice includes making sure your dog has a microchip and collar with up to date contact details, however they advise using your surname rather than your pet's name on the tag.
Other tips include varying the times and routes you take when walking.
They urge caution when talking to strangers about your dog or posting details of your pet or walking routes online.
Extra caution is advised if you have a pregnant dog or litter of puppies.
Police say to avoid leaving dogs in cars or tied up outside shops as they make for easy targets.
Finally, they encourage owners to properly secure their gardens and never leave dogs outside unsupervised.
They also revealed what to do if your dog is stolen.
Police say you should phone 101 to report a stolen or missing dog, unless you're witnessing the crime taking place then phone 999.
You will also need to notify your dog's microchip database and call local vet clinics, rescues and the local animal warden to try and track your pet down.
It's also a good idea to post on social media and missing animal websites, with many pets reunited with their owners thanks to the internet.
The advice has been welcomed by many, however not everyone agreed with the guidelines.
Jim White said: "This is all wrong. Now dogs are prisoners due to criminal's winning the fight.
"Now a bloody dog has no freedom, can't be left outside without being supervised scared to walk it on your own.
"Let's make it kidnapping and a 10 year sentence, something has to be done to stop the owner and the dogs freedom being taken away."
Beverley Cameron-Cook added: "Nice to have this advice, but law abiding people shouldn't have to live like this and be scared of what might happen to their pets.
"Can't police, if they're not already, have a real push to stop these thieves/dog fighting gangs?"
And Lauren Vidler said: "I applaud what this is all about. My only issue is 'vary the times you walk your dog' this is against the advice of every vet and dog care agency which advise walking your dog at the same time everyday as dogs need routine."
