Otis the nine-month old American bulldog is being looked after at the RSPCA Animal Centre in St Columb.

Staff say, despite the macho stereotype of his breed, Otis is very timid and easily frightened.

The animal shelter supervisor hopes to re-home the puppy with a couple who have another dog so Otis can brush up on his social skills.

Status symbol

Katriona McKenzie says he needs to go to the right home.

"When people see Otis, they expect his to be the big, bold guard dog type, but nothing could be further from the truth.

"He's actually a very shy and nervous dog who's afraid of his own shadow.

"Whoever takes him on must want him for himself and not as some kind of status symbol or because they think he'll be a good guard dog.

"He is very strong and he'll need a lot more training."