He was taken into the RSPCA's care just at the right time - and could have died of starvation if left any longer.
German shepherd Boss arrived at the RSPCA's Cheltenham and East Gloucestershire Branch after being rescued by one of their inspectors.
The poor dog, who was "extremely underweight", had been eating his way through a rope just so he had something to fill his empty stomach.
A statement reads: "He was quite poorly but with lots of care and attention and plenty of regular meals, he is now gaining weight.
"He came into our care and was in need of an operation to remove some rope that he had eaten.
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"Boss has been vaccinated and microchipped and is going to be neutered once he has reached his optimum weight."
The two-year-old has now begun his search for a new owner - and needs to live in an adult-only home with no existing dogs.
"Boss is a very playful boy and now he is getting back his strength, he is enjoying some energetic play sessions with his carers, who have to keep a very close eye as he does have a tendency to grab and chew anything," the statement adds.
"Whoever offers Boss his forever home will need to have the ability to continue with a training plan.
"Boss has the potential to make a wonderful companion with kind but clear and consistent adopters who can meet his needs."
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 Boss, or any other dogs at the RSPCA's Cheltenham and East Gloucestershire Branch, complete an application form and email it to their team via rspcachelt@gmail.com.
Do you have a dog story to share? Email paige.freshwater@reachplc.com.
