A fire at a private breeder's home has killed 20 dogs.

The blaze devastated the house in Graingers Road, Hornsea, East Yorkshire, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service said.

A total of 20 Staffordshire bull terriers died in the incident which was attended by 18 firefighters.

It is understood the dogs were in cages, and the fire tore through the wood-structured property while the owners were out yesterday evening.

Paul Clucas, Humberside Fire Service station manager, said the fire was so developed nothing could be done to save the dogs when the owners returned.

He said they have no reason to suspect an arson attack.

Mr Clucas said the devastation caused to the house was so severe that there was "nothing left of it whatsoever".

He said the owners took "great pride" in the dogs and they lived in the property with them.

The station manager said firefighters prevented the fire spreading to neighbouring properties.

The incident comes after a blaze at Manchester Dogs Home , just over a week ago, resulted in at least 50 dogs being killed and others injured.

W ell-wishers pledged more than £ 1.2 million to Manchester Dogs Home in less than 48 hours after the suspected arson attack on September 11.

Overwhelmed staff were forced to tell people donating supplies to stay away from its sister site in Warrington, Cheshire, after the weight of public benevolence caused tailbacks on the M6 and around Warrington.

A 15-year-old boy arrested on suspicion of starting the blaze has since been released on bail.

After more than 30 firefighters began to tackle the blaze, hundreds of people rallied round to provide refreshments, animal food and other help for the dogs that were rescued.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said 53 dogs died, while about 150 were rescued.