Viewing: www.gazettelive.co.uk

Some of these rescue dogs have been waiting for months to find their forever homes at Dogs Trust Darlington

Bookmark
Share
Comments

John Rogan-GAZAudience Engagement Editor

Nicole GoodwinCity Centre Reporter

16:40, 8 AUG 2026

Dogs Trust Darlington

Scruff, Spud and Monty are among the dogs desperately seeking their forever homes after lengthy spells in kennels, with some animals spending months waiting to be rehomed.

Pixie, Toby and Amber are currently among the longest-serving residents at Dogs Trust in Darlington, having featured in numerous ChronicleLive rehoming appeals. Staff at the charity are eager to see them find the loving homes they deserve.

While adopting a pet is a significant commitment that requires thorough research beforehand, those who are able to offer an animal a permanent home can expect a lifetime of love in return.

To ensure every dog has an equal opportunity of finding their forever home, Dogs Trust allows applicants to specify the type of dog they are looking for. Prospective owners can add up to four favourites to their application, giving the charity a clearer picture of their preferences so they can be considered for similar dogs.

Further details and enquiries regarding the dogs currently residing at Dogs Trust in Darlington can be found by visiting their website. Here are the adorable dogs currently searching for their forever homes in the North East, reports Chronicle Live.

Robin

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Robin]

Robin the Lurcher is aged between two and five years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Robin is a super fun lad who loves nothing more than a game with his toys. Soft squeakies are great, but a football is by far his favourite. A home with a garden and no neighbouring dogs would make the paw-fect play area for him to enjoy lots of games and fun activities! When out and about, Robin likes to take in the sights and smells in peaceful areas. He can find some environments tricky, but hes been working extremely hard with his carers and has made great progress. Adopters will be invited to the centre for a few meets so Robin has time to build a bond and so his training plans can be passed on to set him up for success. Robin will be best suited to an adult-only, pet-free home where his family can be around for company throughout the day.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)1 of 26

Share
Comments

Narla

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Narla]

Narla the Saluki is aged between one and two years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say she is a sweet girl, looking to build confidence with everyday life situations with the help of a loving family. She may take a little longer to feel fully settled and relaxed but the journey of helping her reach her goals will be very rewarding. She has already shown staff that when given time, shell lean in for affection and can have a playful nature with other dogs. Narla would be best suited to a pet-free home and with older teenagers. Walking areas free (as much as possible) from other dogs and busy roads are preferred as Narla can react and become frustrated around these. Adopters will need to do some further training for this.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)2 of 26

Share
Comments

Hercules

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Hercules]

Hercules the Cocker Spaniel is over eight years old and is looking for a home with is best friend Zena. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say he may be a mature guy but he doesn't act it. He loves to show off his biscuit catching skills and will play with his toys to his heart's content. He is a clever boy who knows lots of commands and is also a very well behaved house guest. Hercules and Zena can be left for a little while and are house trained. They will make beautiful companions for someone, and a ready made family. Zena and Hercules can live with children over 10 years old and should be the only dogs in the home.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)3 of 26

Share
Comments

Paisley

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Paisley]

Paisley the Belgian Malinois Shepherd Dog Cross is aged between one and two years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Paisley is an amazing young girl full of beans and bounce. She has bags of potential, and for someone who is into their dog training, shell be a joy to work with. With her needs met she does enjoy some down-time, curling up next to you on the sofa and watching out the window as the world goes by. Having positive outlets to channel her bundles of energy into will keep her happy and entertained. Following a successful meet at the centre Paisley could live with another dog. Although, shell be just as happy being centre of attention when at home and having some doggy friends when out on walks. Paisley is able to live with older teens who are confident around lively, larger breeds.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)4 of 26

Share
Comments

Scruff

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Scruff]

Scruff the Cairn Terrier Cross is aged between five and seven years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Scruff is an independent older chap ready to find his forever home. He's a big fan of cheese which will be a great reward for continued training. Hes quite happy in his own company although, with a strong relationship in place he enjoys a good back ruffle. Walking routes that are peaceful without too many other dogs about will be ideal. This is because Scruff can react when seeing dogs at distance. Hell be best matched with adopters who are familiar with the Terrier breed and can offer a home where he can be centre of attention as the only dog. With children, Scruff, can live with older secondary school age. With a patient family Scruff will make a lovely addition to the family.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)5 of 26

Share
Comments

Delly

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Delly]

Delly the Greyhound is aged between two and five years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Delly is a lovely, playful boy with a soft, affectionate side that shines once he feels comfortable. He enjoys being around people and will happily soak up attention, making him a wonderful companion for a family ready to include him in their day-to-day life. Hes a fan of toys, games, and spending time with his humans, and hell bring plenty of fun and warmth into the home. Delly also has a gentle, sweet nature, and those quiet moments of cuddles and connection will quickly become something really special. With time, patience, and a little encouragement, Delly will grow in confidence and truly flourish. He would be best suited to a home with secondary school aged children, who can understand his needs and enjoy his playful, affectionate nature. He would love to share his home with a calm, well-matched dog of a similar size, who can be a gentle companion and help him settle into home life. Delly enjoys the company of other dogs, but would benefit from a relaxed canine friend rather than one who is too full-on. As hes still finding his paws in a home environment, Delly would really benefit from adopters who are around for most of the day initially, helping him settle and build confidence.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)6 of 26

Share
Comments

Maple

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Maple]

Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Maple is a sweet three-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier Cross looking for a calm, understanding home where she can truly settle and shine. She can live with older teens wholl respect her space and help her feel safe. Shell need to be the only dog in the home, as she enjoys having her own space to relax, but she can have walking buddies once shes built her confidence. Maple can sometimes feel a little overwhelmed, so shes hoping for patient adopters who will give her time to adjust and build leaving hours up gradually. Quiet walking areas will really help Maple feel at ease while she grows in confidence. Shes a clever girl and loves fun brain games and enrichment to keep her busy and happy. If you have a gentle approach and a kind heart, you could be just the person Maple is waiting for.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)7 of 26

Share
Comments

Zena

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Zena]

Zena the Cocker Spaniel is aged between five and seven years old and is looking for a home with her best friend Hercules. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Zena is a lively girl and loves showing off her biscuit catching skills. She is a clever girl who knows a few commands and enjoys a walk and a run around the garden. Zena and Hercules can live with children over 10 years old. They will enjoy plenty of walks but are also good dogs in the home. They are house trained and fine to spend a little time together at home.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)8 of 26

Share
Comments

Buck

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Buck]

Buck the Deerhound is between two and five years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Buck is a gorgeous lad who will be a fabulous addition to the family. Hes a friendly chap and will be fine to live with children of primary school age. Hes looking for a home with a secure garden so he can enjoy off-lead time easily. This is because when out and about Buck will need to be muzzled and on the lead as hes receiving further training for dog socialisation. Home life such as house training will need some support as Buck hasnt been used to this set up before. Hes taking everything in his stride, and with continued support he should find his paws in no time. The love of food and toys will be great for on-going training and playtime activities.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)9 of 26

Share
Comments

Foxy

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Foxy]

Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Foxy the German Shepherd Dog Cross is a two-year-old bundle of fun who absolutely loves his toys especially a football. Hes looking for an active home that enjoys playtime, training, and heading out on adventures together. In the right home, Foxy will be a wonderful and rewarding companion. Hes playful, affectionate, and always ready for a game or an adventure. With patient owners who enjoy getting out and about, playing with toys, and continuing his training, Foxy has so much potential to become an incredible best friend. Foxy can live with older teenagers, but he would prefer to be the only dog in the home while he continues building confidence around other dogs. Hes a bright boy who enjoys learning, so hed love owners who are happy to spend time training and helping him grow into the amazing dog we know he can be. Foxy will also need his leaving hours built up gradually so he can settle comfortably into his new routine.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)10 of 26

Share
Comments

Ollie

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Ollie]

Ollie the Lurcher is aged between two and five years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Ollie is a playful chap who loves to zoom around the secure field chasing after a ball and doing find it games for hidden treats. A toy box and treat jar of his own would be his dream. He is dog social and loves to meet other dogs who share his exuberant play ways. A home with a garden will be great for zoomies. He is a lively and bouncy lad so would be best to live with older teens. Pending a successful meet, Ollie can live with another dog who enjoys his playstyle. A home with minimal visitors will be ideal as Ollie has previously struggled with lots of hustle and bustle of people. During meets, the team will go through Ollies training and how to continue this in the home.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)11 of 26

Share
Comments

Lilo

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Lilo]

Lilo the Dutch Shepherd dog is between two and five years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say if you're looking for a fun, affectionate dog to train and share adventures with - Lilo could be the one for you. This gorgeous, clever, girl loves learning and will thrive with an active family who are keen to continue her training and teach her new skills. Shell need support while settling into her new home. Lilo greets everyone well and loves enrichment games that involve food. But her absolute favourite this is her toys. She is full of enthusiasm and her playful personality bursts through. She can live with older primary school aged children who are confident around larger, lively breeds. She may also share her home with another dog following a successful introduction. A secure garden would be the perfect place for Lilo to enjoy plenty of outdoor fun and burn off some energy.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)12 of 26

Share
Comments

Toby

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Toby]

Toby is a German Shepherd Dog Cross aged between one and two years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Toby is a bright, energetic and loving boy who, in the right home, has the potential to be a fun, loving and rewarding companion. Hes a clever boy who enjoys learning and will thrive with owners who like getting involved in training and building a strong bond. Toby enjoys getting out and about and travels well in the car, making him a great companion for trips to quieter walking areas. With time, patience and understanding, he will grow in confidence and begin to feel more at home. With the right support, Toby has all the makings of a truly wonderful best friend. Toby is looking for an active, adult-only home where he can really thrive. He has lots of enthusiasm for life and will need owners who are happy to continue his training and help guide him as he builds confidence. He can find the world a little overwhelming at times, particularly around people and dogs, and can become overexcited, especially around those he loves. Because of this, Toby would benefit from a calm, structured home with a consistent routine and his own space to relax. Toby is looking for a quieter home, away from busy areas, with a secure garden and no other pets. He will need patient adopters who understand that he may take time to settle, and who are committed to supporting him with his ongoing training and gradually building up his leaving time.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)13 of 26

Share
Comments

Spud

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Spud]

Spud the Jack Russell is aged between two and five years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Spud is a really sweet and affectionate boy who loves spending time with his people. Once he gets to know you, he enjoys a good fuss and has a playful side too. Hes a clever lad who has been doing well with his training and enjoys learning new things. Spud is looking for a calm, adult-only home where he can feel relaxed and settled. He would prefer to be the only pet, as he can feel a little overwhelmed around other dogs. Hell benefit from quieter walking areas where he can enjoy his outings at a comfortable distance from other dogs while continuing to build his confidence. To help him feel safe out and about, Spud will need to be on lead and wear a muzzle in public. With the right guidance and ongoing positive training, this will become part of his routine and help him enjoy his walks more comfortably. Hes used to being left for short periods, and this can be gradually built up as he settles into his new home.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)14 of 26

Share
Comments

Monty

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Monty]

Monty the Border Collie is aged between five and seven years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Monty is an amazing dog who will be bags of fun in the home. A ball is his favourite thing in the world, and hed play all day long given the chance. Hes also a big fan of spending quality time with his favourite people exploring on days out together. This brilliant lad will be a cracking addition to welcome into the family. He will suit an active family who can keep him mentally and physically stimulated. Walks close to the home will be needed as Monty does require further training with getting in the car. Once in, hes fine and loves going on adventures. Monty is house trained and should be OK to spend a little time by himself once settled. There is potential for Monty to share the home with another dog and older primary school aged children.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)15 of 26

Share
Comments

Charley and Milo

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Charley and Milo]

Charley and Milo the Smooth Coat Chihuahuas are looking for a forever home together. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say this adorable pair are OK spending some time away from their humans but will need some support with house training. Theyd like to be the only pampered pets in the home. Once a positive relationship is built, they enjoy attention - gentle pets and playtimes with toys. Charley and Milo will be best suited to living with kids of secondary school age. They will make adorable, fun, little companions for someone.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)16 of 26

Share
Comments

Bosley

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Bosley]

Bosley the Pug Cross is aged between two and five years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Bosley is friendly lad and full of life. Hes got bags of character and with the right support will be a fabulous dog for someone. Bosley is looking to join a family who are happy to continue training, particuarly around building up alone time, house training and distance work around other dogs. Bosley will be best suited to living with teenagers and being the only dog in the home. Bosley is a busy lad and will benefit from having positive outlets such as training and enrichment to channel his energy into. His love of treats should help this.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)17 of 26

Share
Comments

Yoshida

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Yoshida]

Yoshida the Border Collie Cross is aged between one and two years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Yoshida is a bright, playful and affectionate boy with a huge heart and an even bigger personality. He loves spending time with his favourite people and, once he knows you, his sweet and cheeky side quickly comes to life. Whether he's exploring new places, learning something new or simply enjoying your company, Yoshida is happiest when he's sharing experiences with those he trusts. This handsome lad is incredibly intelligent and enjoys having both his mind and body kept busy. He loves enrichment, training and adventures, making him a wonderful companion for someone who enjoys working with their dog and celebrating their progress together. While Yoshida can sometimes find the world a little overwhelming, he has already shown how well he can learn and adapt with the right support. With patience, understanding and a family willing to invest in him, Yoshida has all the ingredients to become an amazing companion. He will need to be the only dog in the home, allowing him to fully relax and build a strong bond with his new family. He would love adopters who enjoy getting out and about but are happy to explore quieter walking areas where he feels most comfortable.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)18 of 26

Share
Comments

Sailor

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Sailor]

Sailor the Lakeland Terrier is aged between two and five years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust Sailor is a sweet lad who has settled well into kennel life and has shown a lovely side of his personality. While he has experienced some challenges in previous environments, he has not shown these behaviours with us and has been making great progress. He enjoys getting out for walks and spending time with people he knows and trusts. Sailor is looking for patient adopters who will take things at his pace, continue the training he has started and help him build confidence in the world around him. In the right home, Sailor has all the potential to become a loyal and rewarding companion. Sailor is looking for an adult-only home with experienced adopters who are happy to continue his training and understand that he may need support in certain situations. He would like a quiet home environment with a predictable routine and walks in quieter areas where he can feel comfortable and relaxed. Sailor will need his leaving hours built up gradually and would prefer not to live with other dogs, cats or small pets. He can enjoy off-lead exercise in suitable secure areas and will benefit from adopters who are committed to managing him around dogs and visitors while helping him continue to build positive experiences.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)19 of 26

Share
Comments

Bailey

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Bailey]

Bailey is a two year old Lurcher. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Bailey is a fun, energetic bundle of joy who brings excitement and laughter wherever he goes. Hes full of beans, always ready for an adventure, a game, or the chance to learn something new. He absolutely loves engaging with people and is the kind of dog who will thrive when given lots to do. His clever nature means he picks things up quickly and genuinely enjoys using his brain. Bailey also has a wonderfully playful side and will bring so much fun and character into the home. He would suit a home with older teens who can understand when he's feeling a little over-excited and give him support and space when needed. Bailey can live with dogs of a similar size, and having positive interactions with other dogs will really help him continue building his social skills and confidence.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)20 of 26

Share
Comments

Barley

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Barley]

Barley the Samoyed Cross aged is between two and five years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Barley is a lovely, clever boy looking for patient owners who will help him build confidence and settle into home life. Once Barley feels comfortable, he has the potential to be a brilliant and rewarding companion. He enjoys his walks and would love owners who enjoy getting outdoors in quieter areas. He may take a little time to warm up to new people, but once hes ready hell happily come over for a sniff and some treats. Watching him grow in confidence and settle into his new life will be incredibly rewarding for the right family. He can be a little anxious at times, so hed love a calm, adult-only home where things are fairly predictable. He enjoys training and having something to do, so hed suit people who are happy to spend time building a bond with him. Barley can be a bit cheeky and may try to steal the odd item, but hes a smart lad who already knows a drop and is keen to learn more. Barley will need to be on lead and muzzled around people and dogs in public, and would benefit from some positive training around handling, especially for vet visits. A quieter home with secure spaces for off-lead exercise would suit him best. With patience, structure, and a little humour for his cheeky side, Barley could make a wonderful best friend.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)21 of 26

Share
Comments

Lola

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Lola]

Lola the Jack Russell Cross is aged between two and five years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Lola is a sweet girl who is finding kennel life and busy environments a little stressful. Away from the hustle and bustle, she is a lovely companion who enjoys spending time with her people and exploring the world at a pace that suits her. She is looking for patient adopters who can provide her with a calm, understanding home and help her feel safe and settled. With the right environment and continued support, Lola has all the potential to flourish and become a devoted and rewarding companion. She can live with children aged 10+ who understand when she would like her own space, but she would prefer to be the only dog in the home. She will need her leaving hours built up gradually and would benefit from walks in quieter areas, as she can be reactive towards other dogs when on lead. Potential adopters should also be aware that Lola can resource guard, so management and understanding around this behaviour will be important.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)22 of 26

Share
Comments

Amber

[Amber came into Dogs Trust care in February 2024 when she was rescued from council pounds in Northern Ireland]

Amber is a Crossbreed aged between five and seven years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Amber is a happy girl with a real zest for life. Playtimes are her favourite, especially when it involves having a game of football. This is a great way to become pals with her and with spending more time together, her affectionate side bursts through. Amber settles well in the home and loves to snuggle up on the sofa for movie nights. Amber is happy to travel in the car to go explore new places and if theres a stream nearby, shell happily have a little paddle. When out and about Amber will need to be kept on the lead and wear a muzzle which she wears no bother. Shes looking for a adopters who are able to provide plenty of company at home and happy to go on adventures in peaceful areas. House training should only need a refresher, but some support will be needed for introducing alone time. Amber is looking to be the only dog in the home and can live with older teens. The home should have a garden (ideally with no neighbouring dogs) where Amber can enjoy outdoor playtimes and lounging in the sun.

(Image: Dogs Trust)23 of 26

Share
Comments

Amigo

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Amigo]

Amigo the Lurcher Cross is 13 years old and is looking for a family who have plenty of love to give to an older chap. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say he is young at heart and is still happy to go for adventures just as much as snoozing in the house. He is quite an independent boy and will happily take himself off for a sunbathe in the garden. Amigo did previously struggle when seeing dogs out and about however he has mellowed in his older age and is quite happy as long as dogs give him his space. He is completely house trained and his foster carers describe him as a wonderful house guest. A garden would be lovely for him to stretch his legs and laze around in. He travels will in the car so wont mind a trip out to explore peaceful areas a little further away from home.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)24 of 26

Share
Comments

Pixie

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Pixie]

Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Pixie is a sweet, intelligent, Catahoula Leopard Dog aged between five and seven years old. She loves using her nose and tracking to find her favourite treats and is also learning to search for keys. Pixie has completed lots of training and built her confidence around other dogs and people, which has opened her world, and she is able to go on lots of adventures. Pixies other favourite activity and relaxation technique is sunbathing, and she will happily sunbathe in the garden with you on a warm day. Pixie likes meeting new people (particularly if they have chicken or cheese), so will only need a few meets at the centre to meet her new family. If you enjoy a peaceful, quiet environment and long countryside walks, then Pixie is the dog for you.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)25 of 26

Share
Comments

Bertie

[Meet the dogs currently living at Darlington Dogs Trust while they wait for their forever home. This is Bertie]

Bertie the Shih Tzu Cross is aged between one and two years old. Staff at Darlington Dogs Trust say Bertie is a fun, affectionate young lad with so much potential. Once he knows you, he absolutely loves fuss, playtime and spending quality time with his favourite people. One of his favourite things in the world is his toys, and he's always happiest when there's a toy to carry, chase or play with. His playful, cheeky personality really shines through as his confidence grows. Although Bertie can be anxious in unfamiliar situations, with kindness, consistency and ongoing training he continues to make fantastic progress. Watching him relax, learn and enjoy life is incredibly rewarding, and for the right person he'll make a loyal, loving companion who will always be by your side. He will need an adult-only home with few visitors and a calm, predictable routine where he can continue his training and grow in confidence. His ideal home will be in a quiet location with access to peaceful walking areas away from busy roads and other dogs.

(Image: Darlington Dogs Trust)26 of 26

Share
Comments

Scruff, Spud and Monty aong 26 dogs waiting to find loving homes in the North East