This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in New Mexico. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs. We've compiled this list by gathering heartfelt testimonials from both the Sniffspot community and the wider public, ensuring a comprehensive perspective on these exceptional shelters.
#108 in United States, #1 in New Mexico
Albuquerque
NMDOG is an in-the-trenches rescue serving the chained, the abused, the abandoned dogs of New Mexico. Headquartered out of Albuquerque, this small, 501(c)3 non profit, all volunteer, foster based rescue was established in 2010, touching the lives of thousands of dogs ever since
"We have adopted 3 dogs from NMDOG. They are a great Rescue. They stand by what they say...."
— deedee w.
Adoptee, Supporter
"We have adopted 3 dogs from NMDOG. They are a great Rescue. They stand by what they say...."
— deedee w.
Adoptee, Supporter
#361 in United States, #2 in New Mexico
Albuquerque
Founded in 1965, Animal Humane New Mexico is the state's leading private 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal welfare organization serving more than 10,000 homeless and at-risk dogs & cats each year. We never euthanize based on age or length of stay and since 2010, have re-homed 100% of healthy pets in our care. We support every companion animal at Animal Humane with outstanding veterinary, social and emotional care, and love. As a private nonprofit shelter, we receive no city, state or federal funding; each dollar judiciously spent is earned or raised. We are nationally recognized as a top U.S. charity based on financial accountability, transparency, and administrative-to-program cost ratios. Animal Humane is among only 9 percent of nationwide charities to have received five consecutive annual four-star evaluations, the highest possible, from Charity Navigator, including a top score of 100 for accountability and transparency.
"Espanola Humane is a small shelter in Northern NM. It has an amazing group of dedicated people who work to..."
— debra k.
Supporter, Fan
#600 in United States, #3 in New Mexico
Montgomery
Fur-get Me Not Canine Rescue is a 501(c)(3) non-profit rescue. Our mission is to rescue and rehabilitate canines that may be in danger of being euthanized or unable to be adopted due to their temperament. We focus on canines that are timid/fearful and/or have behavior problems that just need extra time and help to overcome their faults to get adopted. It all started with my childhood dream to have every dog I see. As an adult, I realized this dream wasn’t realistic. Working at a local animal shelter, you see the reality…. not all make it out alive. The timid, fearful, shy or the ones with behavior issues don’t stand a chance when compared to a cute puppy in next kennel. With my love for our four legged friends, I made it my mission to save the ones that are overlooked. We all have our flaws. However, we have family and friends who love and accept us way we are. Is it too much to ask for the same acceptance for our furry friends? These guys just need a little extra love.
#600 in United States, #3 in New Mexico
The Animal Services Center of the Mesilla Valley (ASCMV) was established in August 2008 through a joint powers agreement between the governing bodies of the City of Las Cruces (City) and Doña Ana County (County). This agreement establishes a mechanism for financing, operating, and maintaining a regional animal shelter and related facilities. The ASCMV is overseen by a board of directors made up of 3 City and 3 County officials. The ASCMV is led by an Executive Director, hired by the ASCMV Board of Directors. The authority and direction of the Executive Director is implemented by public employees hired by the Executive Director to operate the ASCMV. The City is the fiscal agent for the ASCMV. The ASCMV is the only open-admission municipal animal shelter in the City and County and is an extremely high-intake shelter compared to similarly sized populations. The ASCMV is a progressive animal services center that provides the public with a variety of animal related services, with a focus on returning missing pets to their owners and finding new homes for those pets in need.
#600 in United States, #3 in New Mexico
Albuquerque
Cross My Paws Animal Rescue of New Mexico, a beacon of hope in the heart of Albuquerque, extending its compassionate reach across the entire state. Our journey began with a profound realization by our founder, Lani Nash, who, upon moving to New Mexico in 2016, was confronted with the unsettling reality of animal suffering that was impossible to overlook. Witnessing the widespread cruelty, neglect, and abuse, Lani's heart was moved by the silent pleas for help emanating from these innocent beings. New Mexico's alarming 24% euthanasia rate underscored the magnitude of the crisis, revealing that the path to healing would require a collective effort from our community. It became evident to Lani that the afflictions faced by these animals were not just isolated incidents but a pervasive issue stemming from human indifference and negligence. The turning point came when the distress of these animals resonated personally with Lani, transforming their struggle into a shared one, compelling her to act. Cross My Paws was born from the conviction that we must do better for our furry friends. We understand that adoption alone cannot solve the problem; we need systemic change. Affordable veterinary care, including spaying and neutering, is vital to prevent further suffering. Education and community involvement stand at the core of our mission, as we believe in enlightening hearts and minds to foster a more compassionate world for all living beings. At Cross My Paws, we are dedicated to ensuring no animal is left to suffer. We champion the belief that every life, whether human or animal, is precious and deserving of love, kindness, and the fulfillment of basic needs. Join us in our quest to not only rescue and rehabilitate but to fundamentally transform our society into one where every paw is cherished and every animal is treated with the dignity they deserve. Together, we can make a difference.
#600 in United States, #3 in New Mexico
Albuquerque
Lap Dog Rescue of New Mexico (LDRNM) is a rescue organization whose mission is to recover, rehabilitate and permanently rehome New Mexico's small companion dogs who find themselves living in shelters, unsuitable homes or navigating other harsh conditions. The stories are ongoing and the needs never end. Lap Dog Rescue of New Mexico was founded during the mid-1990's by Marie Steele and Tamara Marquez-Nugent and granted its Federal 501C-3 status as a non-profit charitable organization in 2001. LDRNM is overseen today by Marie's son, Brian Spence, President of LDRNM, and supported by dedicated volunteers from all over the state. Our small army of animal champions enables us to respond whenever the need arises and wherever it arises
#600 in United States, #3 in New Mexico
German Shepherd
Albuquerque
German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Central New Mexico is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) volunteer-based animal welfare organization dedicated to rescuing homeless German Shepherd Dogs. By working with a small network of volunteer advocates, foster caregivers, local veterinarians and shelters, German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Central New Mexico is able to rescue several German Shepherd Dogs every year. We focus primarily on shelter dogs, evaluating them, addressing any medical needs, and providing them with temporary homes. We ensure all dogs are spayed/neutered and we use our extensive experience with the breed to find matching homes for each one. German Shepherds are wonderful – intelligent, athletic, loyal – and we want every dog in our care to go to a loving permanent home!
#600 in United States, #3 in New Mexico
The Dixon Animal Protection Society has been “in service” since 1981. It became an official 501 (c)3 organization in 1997. The ongoing mission of DAPS is to alleviate the overpopulation and suffering of animals in northern New Mexico. DAPS serves an area that is underserved by local shelters, as so many of our calls come from the isolated areas in the mountainous areas of northern New Mexico. DAPS provides the following services: • Discount or free spays and neuters • Emergency vet care funding to aid animals who have been injured (those who are rescued and those belonging to local families). In order to receive this help, the human companion must agree to have the dog or cat spayed or neutered. • Provide dog and cat food and doghouses for those who cannot afford to feed or house their companions. • Provide a 24 hour “hot line” to help with advice and emergencies. • Buy fencing and “kennels” for those who have dogs chained—encouraging the families to not chain their dogs. (Let’s work for legislation to prevent this cruel practice.) • Set up shot clinics in Dixon (as funding is available), because any vet or shelter is, at least, 30 miles away and so many people are unable to drive their companions to a vet. • Provide humane education • At this time, DAPS has multiple dogs and cats residing at the sanctuary. Those who are not adoptable (injured, abused, medical problems, etc.) live out their lives with us. • Work closely with other animal rescue organizations, shelters, etc. to share information, adoptions, etc. • The ONLY paid employees are local teens or an occasional helper who comes on an “at need” basis. (There are NO other paid employees, as all funds go to help needy animals and their families.)
#600 in United States, #3 in New Mexico
Beagle
From the early 2000’S through 2014, everyone has known us as New Mexico Beagle Rescue. As of April 21, 2015 we are officially Central New Mexico Beagle Rescue. CNMBR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. We are located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where we run a foster based beagle rescue. CNMBR’s mission as a breed specific rescue is to: rescue, love, rehabilitate, and re-home homeless, or in need beagles, in the state of New Mexico, or our bordering states. We are also dedicated to educating the public about the ways in which beagles are so misunderstood. They need plenty of exercise, a very patient family who can teach them their manners, and lots, and lots of Love. We would also like to address how important it is to Spay and Neuter our companion animals. If people would Spay and Neuter their companion animals there would be a lot less animals euthanized. We hope in the coming years we are able to provide spaying and neutering at no charge.
#600 in United States, #3 in New Mexico
Albuquerque
Welcome to Jemez Valley Animal Amigos – an all volunteer, foster focused, rescue group in the Northern New Mexico Jemez Mountains. We serve the Jemez Valley, including San Ysidro, Canon, Ponderosa, Jemez Springs, La Cueva, and Sierra Los Pinos. Established in 2001, we were incorporated in 2002 in New Mexico as a non-profit and obtained our IRS tax free 501(c)(3) status in 2003. Donations to us are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. In 2006, we were awarded New Mexico’s Milagro Award for our excellence in direct animal services. While we might be small, we are mighty and impressive in our efforts to better the lives of the animals we take in! We don’t have a shelter, but rely on a select group of foster homes for our rescued animals. We provide all animals in our care with a complete vet check up, shots, and when of age, we have them spayed or neutered, preferably before adoption. We require an application to be completed by all potential adopters. Prior to visiting the animal, our board must approve the application. If during the visit, all parties feel that it is a good match, the animal can go to her forever home that very day. We DO require an adoption donation that varies based on the age of the animal and whether the animal has been spayed or neutered – your financial support is so greatly appreciated.
#600 in United States, #3 in New Mexico
Albuquerque
Here at Rebel Paws Rescue our goal is to save the lives of dogs by means of rescue and transportation. We also aim to provide proper medical care as well as spay/neuter each dog. Ultimately we wish to adopt them out to loving families and educate there new families on a number of different things. Rebel Paws Rescue was founded March 29, 2016 by Tonya, Belinda, Nancy and Tess. Four women with a passion for life of all kinds, particularly dogs in need. Almost every neighborhood and household has a dog, some of them are in need of something, whether the guardians do not have the means to provide for the dog or the dog has an unnoticed health concern. Our goal is to provide both knowledge and assistance. To help educate guardians to become a more informed pet parent. Encouraging and promoting community involvement to help the strays of the neighborhood find their homes again. The number of animals in shelters is astoundingly high, and growing, and helping keep the population of dogs down by providing spay and neuter services is an ongoing task. There are also dogs in these very same shelters that are on the list to be euthanized because of lack of resources, even the simpler cases, which just need someone to work through the behavioral challenges many of these dogs face. These are not bad dogs, they just need to find someone willing to help them become the dog they are meant to be, a companion. Transporting these dogs to other cities and even states could be a pivotal moment in the dog’s life, giving them a second opportunity to have a loving family life. On occasion there are circumstances where the guardian is in a position where they are unable to keep their dog. Once the dog has been relinquished to our care, we will assess the dog’s behavior and temperament, and any medical needs that should be addressed. After the initial assessment of the dog, we aim to find an appropriate and loving home for the dog or depending on its needs we will transport and transfer it to a better equipped facility. Helping the dogs of homeless guardians is not something very many people consider. They are subjected to the winter cold and the summer heat and we aim to help by providing jackets, water, food and other needs while building a rapport with the guardian. Sometimes medical intervention may be necessary; sometimes it is just about getting the dog spayed or neutered, and current on vaccinations. Unfortunately, incarceration for what ever reason, is something that affects dogs too. When guardians end up going to jail, for even a short amount of time, these dogs often have nowhere to go and the local law enforcement are forced to have the animal transported to the shelter. Some guardians come back for their dog and some, sadly, do not. Providing a place that is not in the shelter where these dogs can still have a place to feel safe and loved is important to the dog’s well-being. Educating guardians encourages the bond between them to become stronger. Providing fresh water and feeding them multiple meals a day, taking them out for a walk creates a trusting and loving relationship. Providing education to the guardians regarding basic medical needs, vaccinations, and the benefits on the dog’s life to spay or neuter, and even bringing them inside where they can be a part of the family life inside of the home. How to keep the dog safe and secured when they are outside and still following all local laws is something that is changing in just about every county in New Mexico. Explaining these laws and assisting is something we strive to do.
#600 in United States, #3 in New Mexico
Pit Bull
Pet-A-Bulls, Inc. is New Mexico's all volunteer based “Bully” breed ADOPTION group. We carefully select dogs from City and County shelters across the State, ensure that all medical needs and vaccinations are in place and that each and every one of our fur~friends have the basic behavior training to automatically exhibit the skills required to be deemed “Ready-Made” family pets! Have a look at the wonderful dogs that are available for adoption and read our success stories of the dogs we have placed. And, if you are not quite ready to adopt, we are always looking for new foster homes :-). We always appreciate any help you can provide for our fabulous furry friends! Please tell your friends about us, stop by at our adoption events and meet the dogs and volunteers!!! Pet-A-Bulls, Inc. was formed exclusively to address the overwhelming overpopulation and homeless pet problems in the state of New Mexico. While our primary focus is placed on American Bullys, American Staffordshire Terriers, American Bulldogs, Old English Bulldogs, American Pit Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, all the various Mastiffs and other “Bully” type breeds, virtually all canine breeds are always considered as space permits. Keep an eye on our “Adoptable Dogs” page as you never know what you’ll find ~ we’ve had everything from a Dogo Argentino to a Bouvier des Flandres, to Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Border Collies and Labs to absolutely adorable “pure D genuine, certified, New Mexico specials” (undetermined mixed breeds with lovely personalities). Pet-A-Bulls places our full focus on carefully selecting our dogs from high kill shelters in New Mexico, after they have been properly screened and evaluated, in a full on effort to prevent unnecessary euthanasia. All intakes are carefully evaluated and then placed into in-home foster with people appropriately matched for their care. We are NOT able to accept dogs directly from the public under our current structure.
#600 in United States, #3 in New Mexico
Mike and Lisa found their passion working with the residents and animals of Luna County, New Mexico. Through the years, they had successfully produced a high quality grooming and boarding facility for animals of all types and breeds. They have received lifetime achievement awards for rescuing over 2,000 animals between 2011 and 2016! Mike and Lisa became lifetime members of Deming Animal Guardians in 2014 and Mike began work with the DAG Board of Directors. Out of their passion for rescuing, they wanted to save even more animals than one foster space would allow, that dream became DAGSHIP Rescue. DAGSHIP, Deming Animal Guardians Sunshine Haven Intake Project, began construction and became a reality in 2017. Since then Mike and Lisa have worked tirelessly to successfully create a state of the art animal rescue facility. The facility is designed with indoor & outdoor kennels with a holding capacity of 12-14 dogs. Completed in 2019, a new cat sanctuary and quarantine building has the capacity to hold 25 cats. The sanctuary features a fun social area and large outside play area for our furry, ball chasing friends. We may be small on the outside but are doing big things on the inside! DAGSHIP Rescue and Columbus Animal Rescue, with Deming Animal Guardian's help, took in over 2,000 dogs and cats since opening in 2017.. With the continued help and support of our community, our volunteers and our Director Chrystal Kerbo, DAGSHIP Rescue will continue to save thousands of lives at this loving and compassionate rescue. About Deming Animal Guardians Deming Animal Guardians (DAG) is an all volunteer, IRS recognized charity that has been in existence since 1991. Since we began, we've sponsored more than 14,500 spay/neuter surgeries. Our focus is indigent pet owners in Luna County, New Mexico. Our goal is to improve the lives of these animals by making spay/neuter surgeries more affordable through discount coupons and mobile veterinary vans. Since Luna County has a high population of indigent pet owners, we target low-income pet owners only. Our goal is to reduce the number of euthanasia at the local shelter by making responsible pet ownership a reality for low income pet owners and now we are thrilled to join forces with Sunshine Grooming to create the new and kind, no-kill rescue:
#600 in United States, #3 in New Mexico
Albuquerque
We provide animal care and protection services for all of Bernalillo County. We foster the human-animal bond by protecting the safety and welfare of Albuquerque’s animals and people. Bernalillo County Animal Care and Resource Center is committed to: • Providing humane care to companion animals • Reuniting lost pets with their owners • Adopting pets to loving homes • Enforcing Bernalillo County animal ordinances • Educating the public about animals, their needs, and our critical role as a community resource
#600 in United States, #3 in New Mexico
Lea County Humane Society (LCHS) is a non-profit organization affiliated with the Humane Society of the United States. For decades, the Lea County Humane Society has been comprised of a group of volunteers working for the wellbeing of all animals in Lea County, New Mexico. We work with the Adoption centers in Hobbs, NM and Lovington, NM to facilitate adoptions, provision of essentials and enrichment for sheltered animals, animal socialization, and assistance in veterinary care. A major focus of our resources is the transportation of stray, unwanted, and abandoned animals to adoption centers nationwide and internationally. In addition, we subsidize spay, neuter, and vaccination services. LCHS works to inform the public, through educational programs, about the ramifications of animal cruelty, the consequences of neglect, the benefits of spaying and neutering, and proper care for all animals in Lea County.
#600 in United States, #3 in New Mexico
We are an all-volunteer animal rescue program serving Quay County, New Mexico, continued from Tucumcari Animal Rescue which began in 2009. In that time, we have saved the lives of 700+ animals. We also started an all-donation funded spay-neuter program in 2014! We are now ready for the next step. God has blessed us with several business supporters and many individual supporters who share our vision of no more homeless, neglected, or abused animals.
NMDOG is an in-the-trenches rescue serving the chained, the abused, the abandoned dogs of New Mexico. Headquartered out of Albuquerque, this small, 501(c)3 non profit, all volunteer, foster based rescue was established in 2010, touching the lives of thousands of dogs ever since
Founded in 1965, Animal Humane New Mexico is the state's leading private 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal welfare organization serving more than 10,000 homeless and at-risk dogs & cats each year. We never euthanize based on age or length of stay and since 2010, have re-homed 100% of healthy pets in our care. We support every companion animal at Animal Humane with outstanding veterinary, social and emotional care, and love. As a private nonprofit shelter, we receive no city, state or federal funding; each dollar judiciously spent is earned or raised. We are nationally recognized as a top U.S. charity based on financial accountability, transparency, and administrative-to-program cost ratios. Animal Humane is among only 9 percent of nationwide charities to have received five consecutive annual four-star evaluations, the highest possible, from Charity Navigator, including a top score of 100 for accountability and transparency.
Cross My Paws Animal Rescue of New Mexico, a beacon of hope in the heart of Albuquerque, extending its compassionate reach across the entire state. Our journey began with a profound realization by our founder, Lani Nash, who, upon moving to New Mexico in 2016, was confronted with the unsettling reality of animal suffering that was impossible to overlook. Witnessing the widespread cruelty, neglect, and abuse, Lani's heart was moved by the silent pleas for help emanating from these innocent beings. New Mexico's alarming 24% euthanasia rate underscored the magnitude of the crisis, revealing that the path to healing would require a collective effort from our community. It became evident to Lani that the afflictions faced by these animals were not just isolated incidents but a pervasive issue stemming from human indifference and negligence. The turning point came when the distress of these animals resonated personally with Lani, transforming their struggle into a shared one, compelling her to act. Cross My Paws was born from the conviction that we must do better for our furry friends. We understand that adoption alone cannot solve the problem; we need systemic change. Affordable veterinary care, including spaying and neutering, is vital to prevent further suffering. Education and community involvement stand at the core of our mission, as we believe in enlightening hearts and minds to foster a more compassionate world for all living beings. At Cross My Paws, we are dedicated to ensuring no animal is left to suffer. We champion the belief that every life, whether human or animal, is precious and deserving of love, kindness, and the fulfillment of basic needs. Join us in our quest to not only rescue and rehabilitate but to fundamentally transform our society into one where every paw is cherished and every animal is treated with the dignity they deserve. Together, we can make a difference.
Welcome to the 2024 New Mexico Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in New Mexico chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.
Sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks, each park offers secure, private bookings on private land, including fenced, water, indoor, and beach parks. As a hub for rescue dogs, our sponsorship underscores our dedication to supporting shelters and rescues. Explore New Mexico dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
NMDOG doesn't cut any corners when it comes to the care and placement of its dogs. When a dog enters the NMDOG program, they are guaranteed to receive the very best of care. This includes, at the very minimum, a full veterinary exam, spay or neuter, all vaccinations, de-worming, heartworm testing, and a microchip. Due to the nature of our work, many of the dogs NMDOG rescues need much more extensive medical care before they are cleared for adoption. NMDOG also provides behavior support and is diligent in every adoption, setting both the dog and the adopter up for success. A 7-week obedience class is included with every NMDOG adoption, and this training, along with the support of the entire NMDOG team, is available to every adoptive or foster family. 'Once an NMDOG, always an NMDOG!' When you foster or adopt, you become part of the NMDOG family.
Discover the Jack Russell Terrier, a breed celebrated for its intelligent and affectionate nature. Recognized as a small dog, Jack Russell Terriers have their origins in England, where they were initially bred for fox hunting and vermin control starting in the 19th century.
Discover the Dalmatian, a breed celebrated for its affectionate, trainable, and loyal nature. Recognized as a medium-sized dog, Dalmatians have their origins in Croatia, where they were initially bred for coaching (running along carriages), guarding, and hunting starting in the 16th century.
Discover the Bernese Mountain Dog, a breed celebrated for its affectionate, loyal, and playful nature. Recognized as a large dog, Bernese Mountain Dogs have their origins in Switzerland, where they were initially bred for guarding livestock and droving work starting in the 1st century.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Albuquerque? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in Duke City.
44.5 percent of all American households share life with a canine companion. Pet professionals like dog trainers, veterinarians, and veterinary behaviorists are more important than ever as our modern society becomes increasingly difficult for four-legged friends to navigate—dog reactivity, anxiety, and general stress from lack of proper enrichment are on the rise in domestic dogs.
Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.
As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.
More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.
You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?
Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!
Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?
You’ve been told your dog needs regular exercise. There’s a reason “walking the dog” is a classic daily activity: Frequent excursions give your pup a chance to experience the world, maintain a healthy weight, and — most importantly — spend time with you! Consistent physical activity can also improve their strength, muscle tone, coordination, and mental ability over time.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Many dogs have gotten a bad reputation over the years for being "dangerous breeds." Rottweilers are among them. Like pit bulls and other large, blocky-headed types of dogs, these powerful and beautiful animals are often assumed to be aggressive.
Your dog is reactive. They’ll see another dog, person, or other stimulus in the environment (like a car or bike) while out on a walk and suddenly go crazy at the end of their leash. The barking, lunging, and growling feels embarrassing for you — and it’s clear that your pup isn’t having a great time either.
Does your dog display reactivity to other pets or people? Maybe they’re a new rescue pup and are still settling into your home. Or they were sick growing up, so you missed their critical socialization period. Possibly they’ve had a bad experience after being raised as a normal puppy.
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
From 2009 to 2020, there was a 40 percent increase in the development of public dog parks. Designated spots for canine exercise have become commonplace in every major city in North America — many pet owners won’t even consider renting an apartment that doesn’t have its own fenced-in pet area for their canine companions.
Thousand Oaks, California has been a safe haven for Sniffspot host, Jen, since childhood. Having grown up in busy Santa Barbara, Jen, an introvert from an early age, would seek out solitude and serenity away from tourists attractions and droves of people visiting from elsewhere. “My grandparents own 60 acres about a 30 minute drive from here, and I grew up spending every summer and every holiday visiting them on the ranch,” Jen explained. “In Santa Barbara, we wouldn't go to the beach on the weekend because that's where everybody was, so you'd find places off the beaten path where the tourists weren't. For me, the ranch was just my happy place.”
Ellen is the host of Country Pasture Getaway, one of Sniffspot's most popular sniff spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great sniff spot host.
Just 20 minutes outside of the busy city of Portland, Oregon, and settled right on the banks of the Columbia River, you’ll find what countless visitors have flocked to the area in search of – mountain views, crisp, clean air, and running water for miles. What you might not expect to find, however, is a hidden oasis designed just for dogs and their people, owned and operated by a farming couple and enjoyed by visitors on two legs, and four.
Fran is the host of Ranch Setting, one of Sniffspot's most popular spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great Sniffspot host.
Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered! It’s hard to narrow down, but we’ve put together some of the best off-leash dog parks throughout the country so you can plan your next adventure — along with a checklist of what to bring, what to know beforehand, and some frequently asked questions.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Las Vegas? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks to plan for your next adventure in Sin City.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.
Discover the German Shepherd Dog, a breed celebrated for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Known for its impressive size and smooth, graceful movements, German Shepherds excel in various roles, including as guide, therapy, bomb detection, and police dogs, while being a devoted family companion.
Discover the Labrador Retriever, a breed celebrated for its playful nature, affectionate temperament, and trainability. Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect family companions and versatile working dogs.
Discover the Golden Retriever, a breed celebrated for its affectionate, playful, and trainable nature. Considered a large dog, Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland for hunting and retrieving game beginning in the 1860s.
Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Considered a medium-sized dog, American Staffordshire Terriers were originally bred in the United Kingdom for baiting bulls, fighting, and hunting beginning in the 1800s — though they're known as gentle, playful lovers today.
Discover the Australian Shepherd, a breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were originally bred in the United States for herding beginning in the 1950s.