An adorable dog who has been coined "part staffy and part teddy bear" has been struggling to secure a new home since arriving at the RSPCA.
The poor pooch, named Bruce, was taken into the RSPCA's Crewe, Nantwich and District Branch - but has not been coping well with kennel life.
Despite being described as a "very friendly and affectionate" dog, the 11-year-old has been overlooked by all potential owners throughout his time in the charity's care.
A statement reads: "We just can't understand why this wonderful boy is still with us. He is so loving and gentle, a real 'man's best friend'.
Sign up to our TeamDogs newsletter for your weekly dose of dog news, pictures and stories.
"He loves cuddles and tummy rubs and has the cutest snore! He enjoys going out for walks and he is very good in the house.
"His needs are simple – food, a comfy bed and plenty of snuggles. He’s a low-maintenance kind of chap. He doesn’t need much of a walk, he’s just as happy playing and pottering in the garden and spending time with his human friends."
As Bruce is partially deaf, he needs an owner who is willing to switch verbal communications to visual - and who can provide him with the extra support he needs to navigate the world around him.
"Bruce’s partial deafness doesn’t cause him any problems in day-to-day life, in fact we often forget about it," the statement adds.
"Bruce would fit perfectly into a quiet, adult-only home as the only pet, with an enclosed garden for safe play and exercise and quiet areas for going for walks where he won’t often come into contact with other dogs.
"His only weakness is that he doesn't like other dogs. This is easily managed when approached properly. Lead-walking in quieter areas, away from popular dog routes, helps him immensely."
The RSPCA is urging people to adopt an animal in need rather than turning to breeders when wanting to welcome a pet into their family.
"While it may be easy to find animals on the internet or even spend hundreds on an expensive breeder, you could risk heartache or huge vet's bills if you don't do your homework," a statement reads.
"By adopting and not shopping you'll also feel good for doing good - by giving an animal a second chance at life in a loving home!
"Plus, adopting from us means that you can relax knowing that all our animals are healthy, neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.
"As with all the animals we rehome, we'll pass on the details of their behaviour and veterinary treatment. You'll likely know more about your rescue animal's history than if you were to buy an animal online!
"We've taken the time to get to know each animal as an individual, to understand their likes and dislikes and to prepare them for life in a loving family, which means there are less likely to be nasty surprises when you get home!
"When you adopt a cat or a dog from one of our centres, you'll also get four weeks free pet insurance, which is vital to protect your pet's future as well as your bank balance! There's so much to gain from rescuing an animal in need."
If you're interested in rehoming Bruce, or any other dogs at the RSPCA's Crewe, Nantwich and District Branch, contact their team on 07748 400 919 or complete an online application form and email to dogrehoming@rspca-crewenantwich.org.uk.
Do you have a dog story to share? Email paige.freshwater@reachplc.com.
