Dogs have soared up to 450% in value during the Covid pandemic – with the French bulldog being the most popular breed of pooch.
Since the UK was forced into lockdown last March, dog thefts have erupted as prices for them rocket.
Sally Jaques, pet expert at GoCompare, said: "Many people who dreamed of owning a dog took the plunge while spending so much time at home during lockdown, which is why the price has risen so sharply.
"Owning a dog is a big investment.
"Worryingly, that rise seems to have coincided with an increased number of dogs going missing – presumed stolen – so it’s crucial owners make sure they know what they are covered for on their pet insurance policy.
"We know owning a pet isn’t all about the money, but insurance policies can help you offer a reward to find your lost or stolen pet as well as advertise for its safe return."
These are the biggest price hikes in breeds:
Brazilian dogo
The biggest price rise was for the rare breed Brazilian dogo, a muscular working dog from South America, which cost £500 before the Covid-19 crisis but now fetches £2,750.
Golden retriever
In early 2019, a retriever could be bought for £450 but will now set back buyers £2,500, up 455%.
French bulldogs
French bulldogs have increased by almost 60% from £1,240 to £1,977.
Chihuahuas can boast the most Instagram fame, raking in 42,892,924 hashtags followed by pugs (40.8m) and French bulldogs (38.4m), the price comparison site GoCompare found.
Toy bulldogs have risen from £1,844 to £3,57.
Black Russian terriers went from £1,521 to £2,800, miniature poodles from £860 to £2,129, American cocker spaniels from £485 to £1,608 and royal favourite corgis from £500 to £1,583.
