A DOGNAPPER stole a blue Staffordshire bull terrier and her three puppies after scaling a 6ft fence to break into a breeder's Romsey home.

The £1,500 prized terrier called Jess had only given birth last month to the two dogs and one bitch.

It is believed the thieves crossed fields before climbing the fence of the property in Awbridge, near Romsey.

The owner, who wishes to remain anonymous, believes that the thieves could have been the same people who showed an interest in buying the dogs just a few days earlier.

Now investigating officers are appealing for information from anyone who saw people acting suspiciously on the day of the theft on April 28 at around 10pm, or during the days beforehand.

Undue stress The owner fears that the mother might kill her recently born puppies as a natural reaction to the undue stress she may be under.

Any extra anxiety experienced by the bull terrier could also affect her ability to lactate which could harm the three puppies.

The missing dog is described as two-and-a-half years old, coloured like a Weimaraner, but with a small white area on her chest and amber eyes.

As she has given birth within the last two weeks she is described as being extremely protective of her puppies.

Sheena Seagrave, reunification manager at Missing Pets bureau, said: "These dogs mean much more to the owner than just their cash value.

"He is a responsible breeder who only sells to people he trusts are responsible enough to give his dogs a good home."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Romsey police station on 0845 045 45 45, Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or the Missing Pets Bureau, on Freephone 08701 999 999.