There has been an "explosion" in rogue breeding of puppies with health problems, according to new research. 

There are concerns as the puppies can then no longer be adequately looked after by their owners, as living costs soar.

New research showed that one in five pups in the South West region die or get sick before their first birthday.

The Kennel Club fears that things will only get worse for dogs in the area, as a fifth of those in the region fear they won’t be able to afford to keep their dog.

The organisation is now urging the public to ‘Be Puppywise’, prioritise health and go to a Kennel Club Assured Breeder.

Chief Executive at The Kennel Club Mark Beazley said: “Thousands of puppies and dog owners are suffering and this research really does show a damning portrait of our puppy buying nation.”

“The virtual puppy buying habits that were normalised during lockdown – which have enabled shady breeders to thrive – have combined in a perfect and terrible storm with the cost of living crisis.

“This means that thousands of people who have been duped are now struggling to care for dogs with health and behavioural problems, who are sadly the victims of this unprecedented set of circumstances.”