An energetic Bulgarian Shepherd is looking to find a new home after spending nearly 300 days at an adoption centre.

The five-year-old called Drake has been at Battersea in Brands Hatch eight times longer than the average pooch.

Drake has now been at the animal welfare charity for 294 days – the average for a Battersea rescue dog is 35 days – and now needs new owners who can give him the love and care he deserves.

Described by staff as a “big friendly giant,” Drake is a bundle of energy who loves spending time with his favourite people.

Typical of his breed, he has very fluffy fur and enjoys lying down for regular brushing sessions.

Michelle Bevan, rehoming and welfare manager at Battersea Brands Hatch, said: “Drake is such a sweet boy, and as he’s now been with us here longer than any other dog at the centre.

"We’re all looking forward to him finding new owners and settling into a forever home.

“Despite his large size, Drake isn’t afraid to leap up and sit on the laps of Battersea’s staff and because he’s such a big dog he gives even bigger cuddles."

She added: “Drake can be very adventurous, and he enjoys nothing more than a good roam around where he can go off exploring.

“He loves playing with his soft toys and during some recent training he showed that he was very partial to a hot dog as a special reward.”

Drake would preferably need a spacious countryside garden with a secure fence and his new owners would need to continue training to be able to help get him used to meeting new dogs and people.

He is also looking for a home with owners who have previous experience in owning large guarding breeds.

If you think this gentle giant could be your perfect canine companion, please click here to visit the Battersea website.