Did you know that some rescue shelters specialise in certain dog breeds? If you prefer a specific breed of dog, a rescue animal can still be an option for you. Here are just six of the specialist shelters in the UK, along with one of the lovely dogs they have available to adopt right now.
You can browse more in our animal rescue shelter directory, or visitThe Kennel Club who have a list of breed-specific rescue shelters.
Lyla from German Shepherd Dog Rescue: "Lyla is a 1 year old sable German Shepherd, currently in a foster home with two other dogs. Lyla is a very active high energy girl who is a very quick learner and already showing signs of excellence i.e. good heel work, excellent recall, will sit and stay but still working on the "down" position. She is very good to groom and is being socialised around town and country to be introduced to new sights and sounds which she sometimes is a little wary of but soon settles."
Darcie from North West English Springer Spaniel Rescue: "Darcie is a 5 year old Springer spaniel who is used to children of all ages and is used to living with cats but will chase them if they run. She is very well trained both on and off the lead and is very well socialised and trained for both whistle and voice. She particularly likes her tennis balls and has a few special items she likes to carry round the house and greet people with when they come in. She is a very talented girl and has done agility and been taught a number of other tricks including how to weave through her owners legs as she walks. Darcie is used to an active life with a lot of interaction with her owner and plenty of mental stimulation and she will need a home who will continue to provide her with a similar environment. She is a very loving girl who likes nothing better than to please her special person."
Reggie from Labrador Retriever Rescue Southern England: "Reggie is a 10 month old Golden Retriever with a playful, energetic and soft nature. He has lived with children but not with cats, but may be ok with them. He is good with other dogs. He is a lovely young dog with lots of energy and will do anything for a treat. Reggie will require further training as he is only a young boy. He would be a great family dog, although may knock very young children over due to his bouncy nature."
Major Tom from Border Collie Trust GB: "Major Tom is just over 6 years old, blue merle smooth coated and is neutered. We rehomed him 18 months ago but he sadly come back into our care following the death of his owner. He was in another home for 3 weeks but wasn't getting along very well with the other male dog in the home so again was returned. Major Tom is deaf but is very responsive to a wide range of hand signals. He is housetrained and travels well."
Billy from Retired Greyhound Trust: "Billy is one of our boys who has sadly been waiting for a loving home for 3 years he always seems to be overlooked - possibly because he is black. He has had 40 races and finished racing in September 2009. Billy has a good loving nature and just loves to cuddle you. He travels well but has not been tested with domestic dogs or cats."
Jack from Rottweiler Welfare Association: "Jack is a 9 year old boy who previously lived outside because of an aggressive house dog. Jack is a real softy, very friendly and happy. A bit wobbly on his back end but a super dog. He is used to living with rabbits and a baby goat! He would love a final resting home or a foster home."