Adorable dog whose life crumbled around him placed on RSPCA's 'red list'

He spent 10 years with owners who adored him - but ended up at the RSPCA after "difficult circumstances" evolved in his family home.

And now Titan, an Akita, has been added onto the RSPCA's red list, which aims to help "extra-special animals" find homes.

Up for adoption with the charity's Essex South, Southend and District branch, Titan has been living in a "comfy foster home" as he couldn't handle kennel life.

A spokesperson from the RSPCA said: "Titan lived with his previous family since a puppy.

"He struggled at first being in kennels and he quickly got moved onto a foster home where he is making himself very comfy and settling in quick."

Sign up to our TeamDogs newsletter for your weekly dose of dog news, pictures and stories.

Titan would love to live with another dog (RSPCA)

Although Titan has "gained comfort and confidence" from his foster home's resident dog, he can be very apprehensive around strangers and their dogs.

"Akita types are very loyal breeds and bond extremely strongly with their people," said the spokesperson.

"They can be selective and aloof with strangers and Titan is a perfect example of this.

"Approaching strangers and moving objects such as pushchairs and bicycles can be a bit overwhelming for him."

He is neutered, vaccinated, flea and worm treated (RSPCA)

The 10-year-old dog is seeking a quiet home with adopters who have experience with large breeds like Akitas.

The spokesperson added: "Although he looks like a huge teddy bear he is quite selective with whom he chooses to get affection from, and his new home must be understanding of this.

"Another dog in the home would be ideal as Titan does seem to enjoy canine company very much. Any children must be of secondary school age or over.

"Titan is a large dog of 57kg and is strong and a bit worried on walks, so strong arms to hold him would be great. No cats in the home as Titan hasn't lived with them previously.

"Adoption fee £250 and virtual home visit apply. Titan is neutered, vaccinated, flea and worm treated."

To rehome Titan, or any other animals at the RSPCA's Essex South, Southend and District branch, contact their team via email dogs@rspcaessexsouth.org.uk.