In 2020 Australia's most-searched-for breed was a cavoodle, according to Pet Insurance Australia, which analysed search engine data.

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The hybrid breed of a cavalier King Charles spaniel and a toy poodle ranked first for online searches, followed by French bulldogs and golden retrievers.

Australians love their fur babies and are willing to spend a fortune to acquire the preferred canine companion, also making it a lucrative outlet for puppy scammers.

The rise in online puppy scammers targeting Tassie, where it's harder for interstate buyers to check out the puppies, recently prompted the RSPCA to warn buyers to beware.

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When registered Port Sorell French bulldog breeder, Mel Dowling listed eight puppies for sale people were quick to warn others to do the research and ensure it was not a scam.

Dogs Tasmania executive officer Kerry Smith advises people to ring them before paying a deposit to check if the seller is a registered breeder like the Dowlings, who also operate a mobile dog grooming business, Paws and Claws.

It took him less than a minute to confirm the Dowlings were registered breeders.

"I would get two or three calls every day from people who think the seller might be a puppy scammer," Mr Smith said.

"There are sure signs that it's a puppy scammer like if the photos have different backgrounds where images get plucked off random websites and their shipping information is a giveaway if they say the puppies can go in the cabin of the plane. They say they will ship it for $200, which is not correct.

"The best place to search is on Dogzonline where our registered members sell puppies, and you know it's a legitimate, reputable breeder and not someone trying to make a few bucks on the side.

For the Dowlings, their passion for Frenchies was sparked after Mel gave husband Scott one for their wedding anniversary, and it was love at first sight.

"They're very playful and cheeky," Mrs Dowling said.

She said some French bulldogs such as a "true lilac or true blue" could sell for up to $14,000.

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"One of my puppies flew out of the state at the weekend, so we're left with seven. We don't let our puppies go until they are 12 weeks or older we feel it's important for their mum to teach them up until then, and I don't care if they stay with us for longer.

"At this age they're completely adorable. French bulldogs are really into being around humans. They're just like people."

Call Dogs Tasmania 6272 9443.

Call Mrs Dowling 0409920867.

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