From gentle giants and loyal companions to energetic walking buddies, plenty of dogs are waiting to meet their new families in the North East.
Maxi's Mates Rescue and Rehoming Centre at Carlin Howe Farm in Dunsdale near Guisborough, looks after dogs of all shapes, sizes and personalities while they wait for the right home.
Here are eight of the dogs currently looking for their forever homes:
1. Alpha, 6, Cane Corso
Alpha (Image: Maxis Mates)
Alpha is a large Cane Corso described as a "big soft, affectionate lad" who loves cuddles and time with his favourite person.
After losing his owner, Alpha needs a home with one person who can give him plenty of company; despite his size, he walks well on the lead and enjoys a relaxed lifestyle.
2. Duchess, 5, Dutch Herder
Duchess (Image: Maxis Mates)
Duchess can be shy with new people but soon becomes friendly and loyal once she trusts them, Maxi's Mates says.
The active five-year-old loves exploring, sniffing and long walks; staff say she needs a home with adults or older children and an owner who can match her energy.
3. Bruno, 7, Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Bruno (Image: Maxis Mates)
Seven-year-old Bruno is a big, strong and confident boy who approaches life with enthusiasm.
He loves exploring, sniffing, running free in the paddocks and playing with squeaky toys.
Bruno can pull hard and turn his lead into a game of tug-of-war, so Maxi's Mates says he needs an experienced owner who can match his strength and energy.
He is looking for an adult home or one with older teenagers, with no other pets, where Bruno can be the centre of attention.
4. Pearl, 7, Greyhound
Pearl (Image: Maxis Mates)
Pearl is a seven-year-old greyhound looking for an adults-only home.
Like many retired greyhounds, she is hoping to swap kennel life for a comfortable sofa and a relaxed home environment where she can settle in with her new family.
5. Valentino, 7, Chow Chow
Valentino (Image: Maxis Mates)
Valentino, known as Tino to his friends, is making good progress while waiting for a home of his own.
The seven-year-old Chow Chow can be a little nervous initially but becomes a calm and relaxed companion once he gets to know someone.
He enjoys walks and neck scratches and needs a quiet, adult-only home where he can build trust with his owner.
6. Mia, 5, Greyhound
Mia (Image: Maxis Mates)
Friendly greyhound Mia is described by the rescue as an "easy dog" who adapts well and gets on with almost everyone she meets. [maxismates.org.uk]
She enjoys walks, loves a cuddle and even likes playing with a ball in the paddocks. Maxi's Mates says she could suit a wide range of homes thanks to her friendly nature and laid-back personality.
7. Chester, 7, Lurcher
Chester (Image: Maxis Mates)
Seven-year-old lurcher Chester is looking for an adult-only home without other pets.
The handsome lurcher is hoping to find someone willing to offer him a fresh start and provide the stable home environment he needs after his time in rescue.
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8. Hazel, 4, Chinese Red Dog
Hazel (Image: Maxis Mates)
Four-year-old Hazel needs an experienced owner who can bring out the best in her.
The intelligent Chinese Red Dog is highly trainable and loves having a job to do; staff believe her focus and eagerness to learn could make her suited to a working role.
While reactive around other dogs, Hazel is described as loving and loyal once she trusts someone, making her a potential match for an experienced owner willing to invest time in her development.
Anyone wishing to find out more about the dogs or applying to adopt can contact * Maxi's Mates Rescue and Rehoming Centre through its website.*