Anyone getting a puppy needs to ensure it's micro chipped, according to Dogs Trust.
The charity says more dogs have been chipped since it become law in 2015.
However it added that the number is nowhere near enough.
It's after Gardaí issued an appeal to try and reunite a suspected stolen Springer Spaniel with his owners.
Gardaí seized the dog from two men in Limerick last week.
Gardaí Urge People To Report Dog Thefts
An Garda Síochána said they are aware there has been a number of dog thefts throughout the country recently.
However, they said the number of incidents reported does not reflect a significant increase in dog theft.
People are being urged to report any such incidents to to their local Garda station as soon as possible.
Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant Ber Leetch was speaking after two dogs were seized in Limerick.
"I would firstly like to thank the member of the public who phoned us when they noticed something suspicious."
"Assistance like this is invaluable."
"As we are hearing a lot about dog theft, it can make dog owners feel unsafe and worried about their beloved pets."
"So we would advise you take extra precautions for their safety."
"For your dog’s security, I would recommend they are micro chipped so that they can be easily identified if found and returned to the owner."
"Also place contact details on their collar in the event that they escape."
"Ensure that your home and garden are secure to prevent theft and deter potential culprits."
She added: "If you have a high value breed of animal you may wish to consider CCTV and other crime prevention measures."
"If you are buying a dog, or returning a dog to its suspected owners, make sure the person is bona fide."
⚠️Dog owners, please be EXTRA vigilant with your dog⚠️ We're seeing a rise in missing & suspected stolen dogs. ALWAYS ensure your dog is fully identifiable with microchip/collar/ID tag, NEVER leave them unattended in public, SECURE your home to keep your dog in & thieves out!
— Dogs Trust Ireland (@DogsTrust_IE) July 17, 2020
Even People Selling Dogs Have To Micro-Chip
PR & Communications Manager at Dogs Trust, Corrina Fitzsimons says even people selling dogs need to have them chipped:
"You can't legally sell or give away a dog or puppy that hasn't been chipped."
"Also if you come across anyone who does this you need to report it to your local SPCA."
"Selling un-chipped dogs or puppies means the seller is untraceable - and you'd have to question why they want to be so."
