Potential dog-owners are being urged to do their homework before committing to taking on a puppy after an increase of dogs being handed in because they were too large.

Pet charity Blue Cross said three times more dogs had been handed in last year because of their size, with the most common reason for giving them up being a lack of time for them.

Large breeds given up because their owners say they were too big include great Danes, dogue de Bordeaux, German shepherds, rottweilers and Labradors.

Mandy Jones, Blue Cross head of rehoming, said: "The larger breeds we are taking in because of their size shows how important it is do your research.

"Think about what the dog will be like when he is fully grown and what their breed was originally trained to do.

"All dogs still need to show some of this instinctive behaviour and it is up to their owners to use play or exercise to prevent their dog from becoming frustrated."

To find out more about the dogs currently needing new homes, or for tips on choosing the right breed for you, visit www.bluecross.org.uk