Dog-owners are being reassured that rumours of pets being stolen to order are a hoax.
A number of worried residents have contacted Lincolnshire Police after hearing that stickers are placed at properties to show what type of dog can be found there.
A police spokesman said: “Please rest assured that this is not being reported in Lincolnshire, although occasionally we do have the task of recovering one or two stolen pets.”
Owners worried about the threat of theft were urged to get their pet microchipped and keep up to date photos, as well as ensuring dogs were never left outside unattended and teaching them to come when called.