Choosing to get a dog is a huge decision to make, and one that more of us than ever before have taken in recent year – around one-in-three UK households now contain at least one four-legged friend.
While some are seeking a new puppy, other big-hearted potential dog owners are happy to adopt a pet that is looking for a new forever home after perhaps not having the best start in life.
The Dogs Trust are dedicated to matching up dogs in need of a home with their perfect owner, and their centre at West Calder, near Edinburgh, currently has a selection of pooches.
To see if you’re a potential match, just fill in an application form here with all your details and let the Dogs Tust match you up with a suitable pet.
They’ll then look at how closely your lifestyle matches the needs of the dog and, if you’re a great fit for your selected animal, they’ll invite you to meet your prospective pup.
They may also organise a home check to make sure it’s suitable for your new family member.
You can also pop into the rehoming centre before submitting the application to see the dogs beforehand.
Here are 13 of the dogs currently looking for a home.
9. Reggie
Reggie is a big and bouncy young Labrador x Boxer. He is super handsome and he knows it . Reggie is very clever and has been enjoying spending time with all of his handlers who are helping him to learn lots of new ways to manage all his excitement. Reggie is so keen to go on an adventure he often forgets to walk gently so he is looking for a family that has the time and energy to support him through this. He can meet other dogs nicely but again often forgets his manners and will need to look to you for guidance. Reggie loves to entertain and engage you with his toys and when he finally uses up all that energy he likes nothing better than to fall asleep at your feet at the end of the day. Reggie would love for someone to work from home with him as he makes a great personal assistant. | Dogs Trust
10. Lizzie Longlegs
Lizzie Longlegs is a 9-year-old Saluki cross. Gorgeous Lizzie Longlegs is a gentle girl who loves to relax and enjoy a cuddle with her family. She can be shy when meeting new people for the first time but she will be your best friend if you offer her a tasty treat or a fun squeaky toy to play with! Lizzie is a sweet girl who can live with children over 16. She loves to snuggle up but she does also enjoy, and benefit from, having her own space and peace for a snooze at times. Lizzie is uncomfortable around other dogs and is happiest walking in peaceful areas. She loves to get out on her walks where she can enjoy a quiet stroll. Lizzie Longlegs is a clever girl who is used to walking on her lead and muzzle. She is super playful and has the best time chasing after her toys. She would love to have a garden where she can do lots of zoomies and play with her family till her hearts content! Once you know her well she will be sure to show you her goofy personality and playful character! She is happy to travel in the car and walks wonderfully on her lead. Lizzie Longlegs adores spending time with her family and is not used to being left alone. She would like for someone to be at home most of the day to keep her company. | Dogs Trust
11. Lawson
Lawson is an 2-year-old German Shepherd. Lawson is a very loving boy who loves to sit next to you on the sofa for some extra cuddles. He can at times forget his size and thinks he is a lap dog! He does make friends quickly, and once you have a strong bond he will show you his goofy side. Lawson is not used to being left home alone and prefers to be in the company of his people. He is fully house trained and is great travelling in the car. He is a super clever boy who loves to learn new things. He can already show off a few tricks in exchange for some treats. He is looking for experienced owners who are familiar with the shepherd breed and are keen to continue his training. Lawson is a happy boy who can live with children aged 16 and above and would like to be the only pet in the home. He struggles around other dogs and would like to walk in quiet, calm areas. He is a playful lad who loves to chase after his toys, especially his favourite squeaky alligator! He loves to interact with his people and prefers to play games with you instead of entertaining himself. He would love to have a garden where he can do lots of zoomies, continue his training and have fun with his family. | Dogs Trust
12. Fergus
Fergus is a 9 year old Jack Russell. Where do we start with our wee Fergus? Small in stature but filled to the brim with terrier personality, Fergus is adored by all his friends. He can take a while to trust people, and being a sensitive little guy he likes to check out new places and people at his own pace. He's also a big advocate for personal space, and likes to have his own area at home where he can get some well deserved rest and relaxation - as long as he has his trusty night light to help him feel safe at bed time! He'd also like his garden to be nice and private, so he can sunbathe away from prying eyes! Fergus is looking for an adult only home as the only pet with experienced owners who have had Terriers before. | Dogs Trust