Former Canterbury Dogs Trust resident Eddie was a big, big boy with a bleak future ahead of him.

Just last year, he tipped the scales at a whopping 15.5kg and resembled more of a walrus than a terrier cross.

But after a strict telling off from the vets, the then 10-year-old embarked on a controlled diet to shed more than half of his blubber.

A vigorous 18 months down the line, and a number of trips to a doggy weight watchers clinic, Eddie weighs in at an impressive 7.5kg.

Losing the equivalent of 1.25-stone means he can now ditch his prescribed anti-inflammatory tablets and enjoy the freedom of a healthy lifestyle.

Dogs Trust rehoming manager Harriet Blaskett said: “When Eddie came to the centre last year it was clear to see he had a fair bit of weight to lose in order to lead a fully happy and healthy life.

“We affectionately nicknamed him Eddie the Potato as he had such a round belly.

“Thankfully his wonderful new family have put in so much time and effort to ensure that he got to where he needed to be, and although now nearly 12 years old, we’re told he’s back to being a puppy and can even go up and down the stairs in his new home.”

Now living in East Sussex with new owners Helen Emmett and Zac Vice, Eddie’s lease of life has seen him become much more nimble on his feet.

Helen said: “We walk him twice a day, but he’s a social walker and still takes a long time to go a short distance because he’s smelling everything!

“The only snacks he gets now are healthy alternatives such as dog-friendly vegetables or fruits but thankfully he absolutely loves these - even lettuce.”

Zac added: “Eddie’s weight-loss journey has been a lot of work but so worthwhile.

“As the weight dropped we noticed he became progressively more active, animated and excited.

“He runs about playing with his toys and jumping on our bed or the sofa (where he shouldn’t be!) and he moves much more freely.

"His personality has really come out as he has dropped the extra pounds.”