Thousands of unwanted and unloved pets are seeking a miracle this Christmas. But for our 12 dogs of Christmas there is hope.

Our rag-tag bunch all currently reside at the Dog's Trust centre in Shoreham where the helpful staff have been taking good care of them.

But what this lovable lot really want for Christmas is a new home and adoring family.

Nicole McCallum, from the centre, said: “We have a lovely group of dogs at the moment - all full of character.

“We have a variety of different breeds for all types of families and they are all looking for a loving home.”

The one word that sums up this year's pack is character.

From a husky crossbreed who likes to dig holes and sleep in them to a livewire spaniel who is happiest when frolicking in the sea - this bunch are a real mixed bag.

But one thing they all have in common is they want a new start in 2014.

Ms McCallum said: “Getting a new dog should be family decision and one you are all fully committed to.

“Our dogs are looking for a loving new home and we look forward to seeing you at the centre.”

So if you think you have space in your heart and home for one of these adorable dogs then visit the Dog's Trust Shoreham in Brighton Road.

 

The Dogs

 

Zeus

 

The Argus:

Zeus loves being made a fuss of. But more than anything he wants a family home where he can go for lots of family walks in the countryside.

He is used to living outdoors in a kennel with access to a garden and is great with people.

He can however be wary of unknown dogs so will need to be walked in quiet places away from others.

 

Brandy

The Argus:

She may not look it, but Brandy is something of an old dear.

She is the perfect housedog and loves nothing more than snoozing away in front of the TV.

When she's not being a lazy so-and-so she wants to be centre of attention.

She adores being with people and ideally would like someone to be at home with 24 hours a day.

She is certainly more of a people person and would be more than happy with a family with older teenage children.

Brandy does however have problems with her legs meaning she is only able to go for very short walks.

She is also on medication, which the Dogs Trust has said they will help with.

 

Bella Boo 

The Argus:

Bella Boo lives to have fun. She hates being on her own would need to be with another dog to keep her company.

She is a quick learner and full of energy. Regular physical and mental stimulation and essential to keep this little livewire happy.

She would love to live with an active family who take her on numerous walks in the countryside.

So if you enjoy long muddy walks then Bella Boo is for you.

 

Tiggy 

The Argus:

Tiggy isn't the most confident of dogs. He finds new things a little scary so owners will need to be patient.

His new family will need to visit the Dogs Trust Centre a few times before collecting him so he can get used to faces.

He will also need help with training as he can be a little excited on the lead.

An adult only family is a must with a garden preferable.

He has always lived with other dogs in the past so a doggie friend would be ideal.

 

Max

The Argus:

Max is a real softy but can be a bit anxious at times.

He would enjoy taking part in confidence building games with his new owners and loves being around large fluffy breeds of dog.

His new owners would ideally match his temperament: easy going, friendly and active.

An adult home would be ideal and if possible he would be the only dog.

He is a little adventurer so a garden should have a fence at least six foot tall.

Anyone with concerns or questions can speak to his trainer Trina who is based at the Shoreham centre.

 

Poppy 

The Argus:

Poppy is your typical spaniel. She loves chasing balls and is a natural in water.

Despite her age, she is young at heart and still a very active dog.

She's looking for nice quiet household where she snooze somewhere cozy after a nice muddy walk.

The muddier the better and with her love of water, a house near a river or the beach would be a bonus.

She is unhappy around children so does need an adult only home. She would also like to be the only pet.

Recent surgery to her right ear has left her with a slight head tilt.

Anyone interested should visit Poppy at the centre as many times as possible in order to gain her trust.

But once she gets to know you, it will be everlasting love.

 

Dermot

The Argus:

Dermot is a big chap. But despite his size, he adores cuddles and attention. He loves nothing more than a big long walk with plenty of running around.

He would suit a family with children and ideally a nice big garden - with an even bigger garden fence.

He is happy to live with bigger dogs and is a big fan of other greyhounds and lurchers -especially the ladies.

However, he isn't a massive fan of cats or other small animals.

 

Rio 

 

The Argus:

Rio's a big old gal - but not the most confident. It takes her a long time to get to know his owners so patience is key for any prospective takers.

Once you do get to know the lovable German Shepherd, she will be a loyal companion for life.

She needs an adult home with no children. Ideally she would be the only dog in order to get all the attention.

She is reasonably well trained and once settled in could be left for a couple of hours without supervision.

 

Davey

The Argus:

Collie cross Davey is a clever old so-and-so. The loving lad is never happier than when playing ball.

His idea of heaven is splashing through filthy puddles on a walk.

He's looking for a quiet home with a decent sized garden. He will need to be walked in peaceful, quiet areas and struggles in towns and cities.

Other dogs are not a problem and he would be more than happy living with a fluffy friend or two.

However, he doesn't see eye to eye with children.

If you are interested in Davey then call ahead so his trainer can introduce you.

 

Dakota 

The Argus:

Dakota is a lover of long walks.The longer the better. So ideally this crossbreed would be taken on by an energetic family who live or have good links to the countryside.

He is a little rough around the edges so could do with a bit of training. But he is a bright boy and loves learning new things.

He needs a home with another dog so he has a pal to hang out with. Cats and other small animals however are something of a no no.

If you're a keen gardener then perhaps give loving Dakota a miss - he loves digging holes in the garden and going for a snooze in them.

 

Annie 

 

The Argus:

Annie is adventurous. So much so she will need a big garden with a six foot high secure fence.

She's a busy girl and so will need an active home. She's friendly and playful and would ideally go to a family with another playful dog to keep her company.

Children shouldn't be a problem - provided they are more than 10 year of age.

Anyone interested in Annie should call ahead so one of her trainers can introduce you.

 

Bianca

The Argus:

Bianca is new to the centre - and hopes to out and with a loving family before New Year.

She's something of a gentle giant and very well mannered.

She would love a new home where she can just potter about with other dogs.

Dozing is one of her favourite past-times and if she can make it onto the sofa or bed then she's in heaven.

She is happy to live with children provided they are over the age of 10.