Almost 300 unwanted Christmas dogs were left abandoned before the end of January - some because their owners were "dog-fished".
On average, DogsTrust received eight dogs per day from Christmas Day to the end of January.
This is a 73% increase on the 172 requests received over the same period last year, leading to an urgent appeal for foster homes so Dogs Trust can continue to help as many dogs as possible.
Ciara Byrne, Head of Communications at Dogs Trust Ireland said: "While many of the people who contact us do so because of extenuating circumstances, sadly many are telling us they underestimated the commitment dog ownership involves.
"We are also continuing to see victims of unscrupulous breeders and families being ‘dog fished’ as misleading and often illegal online advertisements continue.
"Dogs are often advertised as being ‘hypoallergenic’ but as the causes of individual’s allergies can vary, no dog can be said to be 100% hypoallergenic, even if the breed or crossbreed doesn’t shed very much or the dog doesn’t have much or any hair."
One such case is Maggie a five-month-old Spaniel puppy who was fictitiously advertised as a hypoallergenic Poodle cross.
Her family thought she would be the perfect pet, but their allergies flared up and as a result, Maggie was surrendered to Dogs Trust.
She is a very nervous dog, another indicator of poor breeding and the environment she was born into. Due to how fearful she was upon arrival; the charity sought a foster home for Maggie where she is being cared for and the family hope to adopt her.
Dogs Trust Irelands’ Fostering Coordinator Kate Horgan added: “We are urgently appealing for foster homes across the country. If you are over 18, have access to dog friendly transport for vet visits and meeting potential adopters, a secure garden and time to temporarily care for a dog in need, we would love to hear from you."
