DOG owners have been warned to increase security following two dog thefts in Hampshire.

Three cocker spaniels were stolen during the two burglaries which took place in Bullington, near Andover, on Sunday, December 30, and Owslebury, near Winchester, the following day.

Detective Inspector Tim Ireson, of Andover CID, said the animals were highly-trained working dogs kept in outdoor kennels.

He said: “I would urge members of the community who own animals of this kind to ensure their security measures are adequate to prevent any further incidents.

“Make sure your dogs have been micro chipped and that you have recent photographs of them to help identify them if they are stolen or go missing. Consider an alarm system, security lights and improved locks.”

He said officers have been visiting the victims and gamekeepers to offer crime prevention advice.

Anyone with information can contact the Winchester rural north safer neighbourhoods team on 101.