Almost one in five pups bought online or through social media sites in the UK die within six months - according to research carried out by The Kennel Club UK.
However, the DSPCA says there's evidence that many buyers here in Ireland are also having negative experiences when buying animals online.
Complaints include buyers not receiving important information and documents including papers - microchip change of ownership forms and vaccination details.
Gillian Bird is from the DSPCA:
