The study also found that upfront costs of the puppy were a big factor when choosing a puppy with almost one in 10 (9%) saying that getting a good price on the puppy would be their most important consideration and one in 20 (5%) influenced by hidden charges such as delivery costs, underlining why the practice of puppy farming is still widespread. Amanda Bathory, a pet insurance expert said: "This research may come as a shock to many, with no-one wanting to fund such a cruel industry. But what the research also highlights is a knowledge gap when purchasing a puppy.

"Consumers are savvy and will spend hours upon hours researching the breed of dog they want, that they know will fit right in with their family. But what they aren't focusing on is the specific dog that they are buying from the specific breeder they have found.

"Puppy farmers and dealers run a sophisticated operation, often hiding behind a digital veil of tried and tested methods to lure prospective buyers into the puppy farm trap.

"It's very dangerous for the consumer, along with the heartache issue, buying a puppy from a puppy farm can be a serious hit on your finances.

"The Kennel Club estimate that one in five owners that bought puppies through classified ads spent between £500 and £1,000 on vet's bills in the first six months of the puppy's life."

The study found that 26.67% of people in Cornwall and surrounding area own a dog which means there are 146,525 dogs about in Cornwall. Sadly, one in four dogs come from puppy farms, meaning some 36,000 dogs in Cornwall may have come from a puppy farm.

Lisa Richards, a senior scientific officer at the RSPCA, added: "The awful conditions that puppies from unscrupulous breeders and dealers experience, can lead to both serious health conditions and long-term behavioural problems.

"So the puppy you thought would make a great family pet could go on to be seriously ill or afraid of new experiences, people or other animals, and could go on to behave aggressively later on in life.

"Our advice is always to do lots of research and use the puppy contract, it gives you all of the questions you need to be asking yourself and the breeder before buying a puppy."

She added: "If there are any warning signs, if the breeder or dealer is evasive or if you're unsure always walk away. It might feel like you're rescuing the puppy, but sadly you're just making space for another one.

"Walk away and report it to the RSCPA and the local authority."

The GoCompare.com article can be viewed here.