A stray dog found wandering alongside a busy motorway has been given a new home to call his own.

Named after famous Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen, the Staffy cross came to Battersea Brands Hatch after a member of the public spotted him on the roadside.

Despite his difficult start in life, the two-year-old soon became a firm favourite among staff at the rehoming centre and was described as one of the sweetest dogs you could ever meet.

However, Max needed help from Battersea’s expert teams due to his lively and energetic ways.

Staff put a special care plan in place to help with his social skills so he could enjoy spending time with both humans and other dogs.

Due to his speedy nature of running and playing in his paddock, the canine was named after the F1 champion, Max Verstappen.

Centre manager Ahmed Abdeldayem said: “We’ll never know the specific circumstances that led to Max being found alone at the side of the road but our team here were on hand to give him the care he deserved.

“Max wanted to be a sociable boy and our team helped teach him some positive behaviours that helped to channel his livewire energy.”

Today on International Dog Day (August 26), staff are celebrating as the loveable pup’s search for a new home to call his own has come to an end.

“We are so glad that Max now has a new family after his time in our care,” Ahmed added.

“Our staff go all in every day to help give our rescue animals the best chance of finding new homes and it was such a team effort helping him flourish.”

His new owner, Karen Gibbons, said: “Max is such a wonderful dog and has settled in so well.

“He’s very much a part of the family and has already made good friends with our other dogs, Carter and Joey, who we also adopted from Battersea.

“Max still enjoys a speedy run around with his friends after a quick pit stop for a treat or two!

“It’s heartwarming to know that Max will now have a lifetime of love with us.”

If you are interested in rehoming from Battersea Brands Hatch, please visit the Battersea website.