Puppy love soars during lockdown

THE demand for puppies has rocketed since the lockdown began as people seek canine company to help them cope with their social isolation.

There are fears there could soon be a shortage of some breeds, while long waiting lists are pushing up prices.

And experts have warned buyers that a ‘dog is not just for lockdown, it’s for life’ amid concern over what will happen when people return to their workplaces.

Breeder Bill Lambert, head of health and welfare at the Kennel Club, said there was now an unprecedented demand.

‘Normally I get one or two enquiries a month but now it’s four or five a day,’ he said.

Dog charities urged people to seek out respected breeders amid claims of profiteering by unscrupulous dealers.

Adam Levy, regional manager at the Dogs Trust, said: ‘It’s a very lucrative business with few penalties.’