The RSPCA has revealed the dog breeds waiting months for their new home. While most RSPCA dogs are rehomed within an average of 41 days, American Bulldogs, Rottweilers and Staffordshire Bull Terriers can wait up to 80 per cent longer in rescue centres.According to the RSPCA data, American Bulldog cross-breeds wait the longest at 74 days, with American Bulldogs waiting 65 days, the same as Boxer crosses.

Sadly the most commonly seen dog at the RSPCA – the Staffordshire Bull Terrier – waits an average of 62 days before finding their forever home. However, the RSPCA said that new homes have been found for 887 Staffies and 387 Staffie crosses by its centres over the last three years.

The dogs waiting the least amount of time are spaniels with the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel waiting an average of 12 days, the Cocker Spaniel waiting 16 days and the Springer Spaniel waiting 18 days.

Alice Potter, pet welfare expert at the RSPCA, said: “The staff who care for our animals every day know just how loveable each and every one is and how different they are from one another but we do find that some breeds take longer to find their perfect match.

“This is probably due to a combination of reasons. For example, size or beliefs about particular breeds and types may stop people from even considering the possibility of adopting an American Bulldog or Staffordshire Bull Terrier. And with so many of the same type of dog in our care it can be difficult for individuals to stand out from the crowd despite their great potential. Sadly in some cases, animals are overlooked just because of how they look.”

Ms Potter added: “We would urge anyone looking for a pet to remember that every dog is an individual with a unique personality – the reputation of a particular breed or type is often undeserved. They should find out if they are a good match for that particular animal to see if they can offer them a loving home.”