A leading animal charity has said the hit TV show Game of Thrones could be behind a sudden rise in the number of unwanted huskies it has to rehome.

The Blue Cross charity said it has seen a 700% increase in the number of husky-type dogs being given up or abandoned.

For the first time the breed and similar types of dog have made it onto the top 10 of their dogs that need rehoming.

The popular fantasy show Game of Thrones features beautiful, white dogs known as direwolves, which are brave and intelligent.

People might think the puppies look adorable, but huskies are working dogs and need plenty of mental and physical exercise.

A litter of nine huskies has recently been re-homed by the Blue Cross centre at Thirsk, North Yorkshire.

Its deputy manager Caroline Thompson said: "Huskies and other similar breeds are working dogs and they need lots of mental and physical stimulation.

"Ideally they need a good couple of hours exercise every day and experienced owners who have plenty of time to spend with them.

"Sadly, the reason we're now seeing so many of these breeds being given up is because so many people get them without doing enough research into the kind of care they need."