A DORSET canine specialist has sent a warning to owners who have adopted or bought a dog during the pandemic.

Since the start of lockdown more households became dog owners, with the Dogs Trust experiencing a 60 per cent increase in calls from people wanting to adopt.

However, Bethany Long, behaviourist and dog trainer, from Wimborne, said new puppies and dogs adopted will have had little to no exposure to a 'normal world' meaning they are at high risk of experiencing behaviour problems.

She said: "Dogs who have missed out on key socialisation may lack confidence.

"Owners might find their dog is nervous when meeting others and can’t be left alone for short periods of time due to always being around the family in lockdown – making going back to a form of 'normal' life feel impossible.

"If these behaviours aren’t helped as soon as they arise then it can lead to future problems and even progress into more destructive behaviour."

To find out more, visit: www.bonnydogbehaviour.com