Although his medication makes him happy and free from pain his condition will deteriorate.

Vets at the West Calder Dog Trust, where he is being kept, think he only has a few months left where he can walk without a problem.

Susan Tonner, rehoming centre manager, said: "Blaze is a sensitive dog who likes the gentle life. It is terrible that a dog has been bred with such terrible hips and he certainly is in discomfort without his pain medication."

Described as a gentle giant Blaze adores everyone he meets. He is good with babies and young children and loves to have attention and cuddles.

Blaze is happy home alone, is house-trained and loves to snooze on the sofa. He also enjoys chasing balls and playing tug, as well as being in the car - making him the perfect companion.

But he is not good with other dogs and needs a home where he is the only one. Susan said: "Blaze has been returned to us twice because of his behaviour outside with other dogs. He is best off in a home with a very large garden, where he does not need to be walked outside."

The Dog Trust will continue to pay for all his vet bills for the rest of his life.

For more information visit www.dogtrust.org.uk or call (01506) 873459