Rescue Dogs for Adoption near Norfolk, Virginia

The American Staffordshire Terrier, also known as the Amstaff, is a medium sized, muscular breed known for its loyalty and courage. Developed in the United States, they are intelligent and affectionate dogs, making them great family companions. With a distinctive short coat and strong build, American Staffordshire Terriers are often misunderstood due to their past as fighting dogs, but they are actually loving and playful pets when raised in a nurturing environment. They thrive on human interaction and are eager to please their owners.

The Bernese Mountain Dog, originating from Switzerland, is a large and sturdy working breed known for its gentle nature and impressive strength. These dogs have striking tri color coats of black, white, and rust, with a thick double coat that provides protection in cold weather. Bernese Mountain Dogs are loyal, affectionate family companions, known for their calm temperament and love for children. While they require regular grooming and exercise, their loving nature and devotion make them a beloved breed for families seeking a loyal and affectionate canine companion.

The boxer is a medium to large sized dog breed known for its muscular build, distinctive square head, and energetic personality. Boxers are loyal, affectionate, and good natured companions, making them an ideal family pet. They are intelligent, playful, and love to be around people, making them excellent with children. Boxers require consistent training, plenty of exercise, and socialization to thrive. With their strong work ethic and protective instincts, boxers excel in various roles, including as service dogs, therapy dogs, and in dog sports.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog, a unique and versatile breed originally from Louisiana, is known for its striking coat patterns resembling a leopard. These dogs are esteemed for their intelligence, loyalty, and exceptional working abilities. With a strong instinct for herding and tracking, they excel in diverse roles such as hunting, herding, and search and rescue. Renowned for their protective nature and affection towards their families, Catahoula Leopard Dogs make devoted companions for owners committed to providing them with proper training and stimulation.

The Chihuahua is a small breed famous for its confidence, loyalty, and big personality, despite its tiny size. Originating from Mexico, these dogs are known for their large, expressive eyes and alert, curious nature. Chihuahuas make excellent companions, forming strong bonds with their owners and displaying a protective nature. They come in a variety of coat colors and patterns, with both long and short coats, making them a diverse and adorable addition to any family.

The Fox Terrier is a small, energetic, and intelligent breed known for its distinctive appearance, with smooth or wirehaired coat varieties. Fox Terriers are fearless and playful, making them excellent companions for active families. Their history lies in hunting foxes, reflected in their high prey drive and need for mental and physical stimulation. They are loyal and affectionate towards their owners but may show dominance over other dogs. Regular exercise and training are essential for a well balanced Fox Terrier.

The hound dog breed is a diverse group known for their incredible hunting abilities and keen sense of smell. These dogs are esteemed for their athleticism, endurance, and loyalty, making them excellent companions for active individuals and families alike. With a rich history of assisting hunters in tracking and trailing game, hounds possess a strong prey drive and a distinctive bay when on the hunt. Hounds come in various sizes and coat types, each with its unique characteristics, but they all share a remarkable intelligence and a friendly disposition.

The mixed breed dogs, often referred to as mutts, are a diverse and unique group with a blend of different characteristics from various purebred dog breeds. These dogs come from a mixture of lineages, resulting in a wide range of sizes, coat types, and temperaments. While each mixed breed dog is distinct in its own right, they are known for their resilience, adaptability, and often have fewer health issues compared to purebred dogs due to their genetic diversity. Mixed breed dogs make wonderful companions for families looking for a loyal and one-of-a-kind pet.

The Pit Bull Terrier is a resilient and loyal breed known for its muscular build and loving nature. Originally bred for bull baiting and later dog fighting, Pit Bulls today are beloved family pets cherished for their gentle temperament and playful personality. With proper training and socialization, Pit Bull Terriers make affectionate companions that thrive on human interaction. Recognized for their strength and agility, these dogs require regular exercise and mental stimulation to channel their energy positively, reinforcing their reputation as devoted and trainable pets.

The Poodle is a highly intelligent and elegant dog breed known for its distinctive curly coat and graceful appearance. Originally bred as water retrievers, Poodles come in three size varieties Standard, Miniature, and Toy each with their unique characteristics but sharing the breed's alert and friendly nature. Renowned for their hypoallergenic qualities and keen sense of humor, Poodles excel in various dog sports and activities, making them versatile companions suitable for different lifestyles and living situations.