Rescue happens

No judgement. Just help.

Life changes. Circumstances change. Sometimes, despite every good intention, rehoming a dog is genuinely the right and responsible thing to do — and we will never make anyone feel small for reaching that decision.

We have limited direct capacity to help with Chihuahuas and miniature dachshunds specifically, and a wide network of trusted contacts across the wider rescue world for other breeds and situations.

If you're weighing this decision, or you've already made it and need somewhere to start, get in touch — no judgement, no lecture, just a conversation.

Go in with your eyes open

Rescue dogs can come with baggage — some obvious, some that only shows up once they've settled in. That's not a reason to avoid rescue; it's a reason to prepare properly so you can give a dog the best possible start, and so you're not blindsided.

• ★ Think carefully about your lifestyle, experience, and what you can genuinely commit to before you fall in love with a face.
• ★ Behaviour issues — anxiety, resource guarding, reactivity — are common in rescue dogs and usually workable with time, patience, and the right support.
• ★ Ask the rescue plenty of questions about history, known triggers, and how the dog has settled with previous foster carers.
• ★ Be prepared to invest in training and, where needed, professional behavioural support.

A useful framework for what to expect in those first few months is the 3-3-3 rule:

Start with a breed rescue

We don't frown on import rescue — but the UK has plenty of dogs of its own who need homes, and breed rescues are a genuinely great place to start looking. They tend to know their breed inside out, understand common health and temperament traits, and are well placed to match you with a dog that actually fits your life.

Please do think carefully about the breed you're drawn to — temperament, exercise needs, and typical health considerations all matter. Have an honest look at our breed guide before you commit.