Rover-priced! How cost of a puppy has nearly doubled during lockdown as buyers are charged 'extortionate' record prices

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How much is that doggie on the internet?

Twice what it cost before lockdown, a charity warns.

Popular breeds are up 50 to 90 per cent since March as Google searches for 'buy a puppy' have rocketed 166 per cent.

The Dogs Trust says buyers are being charged 'extortionate' record prices – its researchers found some English bulldogs on sale for £9,000. 

The Dogs Trust has found that interest in popular breeds, such as Chow Chows, English Bulldogs and Dachshunds, has increased since March

Despite Covid-19 restrictions, puppies are still being smuggled into the UK.

The trust rescued 43 pups illegally imported from Central and Eastern Europe that would have sold for an estimated £80,000. It also saved 12 heavily pregnant dogs, who had 56 puppies.

Trust veterinary director Paula Boyden said: 'It's shocking to see how much dogs are being advertised for online and in particular how prices for some of the most popular smuggled breeds have increased during the coronavirus lockdown.

'While there are many responsible sellers out there, sadly there are plenty who are just looking to tug on the heartstrings and exploit the situation for their own profit.'

The trust found that despite Covid-19 restrictions, puppies are still being smuggled into the UK. (Stock image)