Dogs here are being sold by an illegal trader as the demand for furry companions rises while Germans air told toe work from home.

So is the illegal dog trade from Eastern Europe into the country.

Kasten Plucker runs a dog shelter and says the surge in demand for pets is putting an extra burden on shelters.

There have been mafia style goings on in the puppy trade for a long time.

Now, large gangs bring the dogs into Germany from Eastern Europe to sell them here.

On.

On top of this are now private individuals who bring dogs in from Eastern Europe and are also selling them here, he explains.

It's the shelters who are often carrying the costs for treatment on quarantining of any illegal dogs, found Clicker warns.

The black market trade is not only damaging to the dogs but can create unforeseen costs for unsuspecting buyers who may end up with hefty vet bills for dogs with hidden illnesses.

Prices for certain dogs have also risen significantly, with Jackson's going for €3000 in some cases compared with 1000 year ago.

Animal welfare groups are urging Germans to make sure that they are buying from a trusted source.

They have also issued a plea that a dog is for life, not just for lock down.