Dog breeders in Mid Wales have been inundated by calls from prospective puppy owners during the lockdown.

Claire Tanner, a registered beagle puppy breeder from Llanidloes, says the amount of enquiries she has received every day has been "unbelievable".

It follows reports last week that prices for puppies have risen to "extortionate" levels due to demand in recent months which has led to Powys County Council and the RSPCA warning people to think twice before buying a dog.

Claire, who has been breeding beagles for seven years, said puppy farmers are "cashing in" on the lockdown by selling beagles for up to £2,000; double what reputable breeders charge.

"I had a guy on the phone from south Wales who had been scammed. He placed a deposit down which is what breeders sometime ask for and there was no puppy at the end of it."

She believes sellers are taking advantage of lockdown measures and non-essential travel. Claire said: "I don't think anyone should be breeding litters this year, I think it's irresponsible at the minute because you can't vet the new owners, and the new owners can't check up on the mother and the environment that the puppy has been brought up in. People are cashing in on that and that opportunity of people not being able to check up on them.

She added: "Sadly, people are buying them possibly for the wrong reasons because they've got time on their hands at the moment and I'm concerned with what happens when they go back to work when their life goes back to normal.

"I worry for shelters and charities that take in puppies; they're going to be inundated in six months time."

Powys County Council's Trading Standards last week issued a warning to residents that some sellers are charging "substantially higher prices" for certain breeds of dog.

Cllr James Evans, cabinet member for trading standards, said: “We have received concerns from reputable breeders and consumers that the Covid-19 lockdown restrictions have brought about inflated prices for dogs and that consumers, who are seeking a certain breed of dog, maybe going unreputable sellers and being charged extortionate prices.

“Dog ownership is a huge responsibility. Individuals must make sure that they are able to care for them and provide them with a happy and safe home – not just for the lockdown period but the rest of the dog’s life."