As the temperatures climb, time spent outdoors with our canine friends will also be on the rise. While enjoying the outdoors with your dog is certainly something to look forward to, it also means a higher risk of him getting loose and possibly being stolen.

The thought of your dog being taken from you is unimaginable to most, but with pet theft becoming more common, dog owners need to practice caution when it comes to their pups. To help keep dogs safe, the American Kennel Club offers tips for protecting your dog from theft.

- Microchip your pup. Collars and tags can be removed, so make sure you have permanent ID with a microchip. Always keep your contact information current with your microchip recovery service provider so you can be contacted should your dog be recovered. For more information on microchipping your dog, visit AKC Reunite at http://www.akcreunite.org/

- Never leave your dog outside unattended. When your dog is left alone in the yard, especially if it’s visible from the street, he becomes an easy target for pet thieves. Be sure to always supervise your dog when he is outside.

- Keep your dog close. Keeping your dog on the leash and close to you during walks will reduce the chance of him wandering off and possibly catching the attention of thieves.

- Don’t give out too much information. If strangers approach you to admire your dog when you’re out, be careful with how much information you reveal. Don’t disclose how much your dog cost or details about where you live.

- Don’t tie your dog outside a store.