Understanding & Adopting Ex-Breeding & Nervous Dogs

Ex-breeding dogs have often only known the company of other dogs and may be unfamiliar with home life, human affection, or even basic experiences like walking on a lead. With time, patience, and love, they can transform into the most loyal companions, but it’s important to understand their needs.

What to Expect

• They have usually never been inside a home before and so may find everyday noises quite worrying at first.
• They will usually not be house trained and they will need gentle encouragement to go outside.
• They are usually unsure how to walk on a lead. They may have started learning while at the rescue, but would be a beginner to lead walking and find walking in new areas (particularly busier ones) overwhelming.
• They usually wouldn't have had much human contact before coming to the rescue and so will be quite nervous and need space to build trust. At first they may run away from you as they may be too worried to accept a gentle stroke just yet.
• The vast majority of ex-breeding dogs rely on other dogs for comfort and will need the guidance of a confident resident dog in their new home.
• They will thrive in calm homes with patient adopters who will take things at their own pace.

Many of our ex-breeding dogs move to foster homes before being adopted. Those in foster homes will have started to learn all about home life and may have started to grow in confidence already.

Helping Your New Dog Settle

• Give Them Time & Space – Let them explore at their own pace. A quiet, cosy "safe space" like a crate or a comfy bed in a corner can help them feel secure.
• Encourage Without Forcing – Allow them to come to you when ready. Gentle words and small treats can help build confidence.
• Be Patient with House Training – Take them outside regularly, even in all weather, and praise them when they get it right.
• Introduce New Experiences Gradually – Everyday sounds like kettles or washing machines can be scary at first. Let them adjust slowly.
• Avoid Retractable Leads – If dropped, the noise can startle them, causing panic. A harness and standard lead are a safer option and we always recommend double leading ex-breeding dogs to start with.
• Show Them How to Play – Many have never seen a toy before, so they may need to learn how to have fun!

The Reward

If you're looking for an instantly confident dog, an ex-breeding or nervous rescue might not be the right fit. But if you’re willing to invest time, love, and patience, you’ll see a beautiful transformation. There is nothing more heartwarming than watching a once-scared dog blossom into a trusting, happy companion.

Are you ready for the journey? If so, the love and loyalty you’ll receive in return will be truly life-changing.