There has been a huge increase in the number of Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies being abandoned, as these breeds become the next must have 'status dogs' in inner city areas.
This year, there has been a 40 per cent increase in these breeds being left at the doors of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.
The charity believes people are buying these dogs only to realise they cannot provide the lifestyle they need.
One such dog was Honey, who was featured on Paul O'Grady For the Love of Dogs last night (September 24th).
Liz McWalter, head of intake at Battersea, said: "Huskies are stunning dogs and are very cute as puppies, but they need very experienced and active owners.
"This, yet again, is an example of Britain's throwaway society where people are using dogs as a lifestyle status, rather than making an educated decision on what kind of dog suits them."
She added that these breeds are intelligent working dogs who need lots of space and exercise.
Because they have a strong instinct to run, they should only be let off leads in controlled environments, so having them in cities poses dog control problems and is detrimental to the animal's welfare.
