Bella and Max have topped the list of most common names for rescue dogs over the past 12 months, it has emerged.

Dogs Trust, which rehomes thousands of dogs per year, took on 134 Bellas and 113 dogs called Max in 2018.

Whilst the majority have found a new owner, there are currently seven Bellas and nine Maxs still awaiting their forever homes.

The second most common names were Poppy and Buddy with 120 and 108 dogs coming in with these names, whilst Daisy and Charlie came third with 99 and 105.

Dogs Trust also revealed the most unusual dog names - rescuing pooches called Uncle Clive, Ruby Sausage, Battleplan, Super Trouper, Muddy Puddle and Lady Luna Freya.

Adam Clowes, director of operations at Dogs Trust, said: "We see dogs of all ages, shapes and sizes coming through our doors but there are certainly some names that crop up more than others.

"The names Bella and Max are loved by dog lovers everywhere, so it's no surprise they've come top of the list."

Dogs Trust Leeds is currently looking to rehome Bella, a three-year-old crossbreed described as a "a lively girl who is happy to meet new people". The rescue centre says she adores her toys and will happily entertain herself with her favourite ball.

In Kenilworth, Warks, is Max, an eight-year-old crossbreed who is a "sensitive boy" looking for a quiet, adult-only home with a secure garden where he can potter about.

Dogs Trust West Calder, in Scotland, has Bella, a four-year-old Saluki who loves chasing her ball, lazing about in the garden and enjoying the company of her human friends. She is looking for a home with children aged 12 and over.

Another crossbreed, four-year-old Max, is looking for a new home at the Loughborough centre in Leicestershire. The "playful and energetic" boy loves playing with toys and will need an adult-only home.

Adam Clowes added: "We care for our dogs for as long as it takes to find them a suitable adopter, and we've happily rehomed over 13,000 dogs to new owners in 2018.

"We're looking forward to matching up even more dogs with their special someones in 2019 - whether they're a Buddy or a Crème Brulee."

Most common female dog names

1. Bella

2. Poppy

3. Daisy

4. Lola

5. Molly

6. Roxy

7. Ruby

8. Bonnie

9. Millie

10. Tilly

Most common male dog names 1. Max

2. Buddy

3. Charlie

4. Alfie

5. Jack

6. Milo

7. Oscar

8. Teddy

9. Toby

10. Buster