Dogs Trust is currently caring for 122 so‑called “Underdogs” – dogs that have spent at least six months in the charity’s shelters. Many of these animals, ranging from a four‑year‑old Great Dane cross named Hamish to a 10‑year‑old Saluki mix, are being passed over because of their size, age or colour, according to experts from Dogs Trust and Battersea.

122 Underdogs linger at Dogs Trust despite adoption drives

According to Dogs Trust, the 122 dogs classified as Underdogs vary widely in breed, size and temperament, yet share a common hurdle: they have been in care for six months or longer. The charity reports that 47% of this group are large‑sized dogs and 39% are medium‑sized, a distribution that skews adoption odds toward smaller, younger pups.

The organisation stresses that each dog is individually assessed by behavioural and veterinary teams, but the prolonged stay highlights systemic biases in how potential owners browse online listings.

Black Greyhounds face longer rehome times due to photo visibility

Jay McGuinness, Canine Rehoming & Welfare Manager at Battersea, explains that black Greyhounds historically take longer to rehome because their features are less distinct in photos, reducing click‑through rates on adoption platforms. He notes that “looks can influence first impressions, particularly when people are searching online,” a sentiment echoed by shelter staff who see fewer inquiries for dark‑coloured dogs.

This visual bias compounds other stereotypes, such as the belief that Greyhounds are high‑energy when many are actually calm and low‑maintenance.

Hamish the Great Dane cross needs physically capable adopters

One of the most prominent Underdogs is Hamish, a four‑year‑old Great Dane cross described as “sweet and goofy.” McGuinness says Hamish still works on lead manners and would thrive with a two‑person household that can manage his strength and use food as motivation for training.

Because Hamies’s size and energy level require a tidy, uncluttered home, many prospective owners shy away, preferring smaller breeds that seem easier to handle.

Rossi’s patella luxation adds a medical hurdle

Another case that illustrates the complexity of rehoming is Rossi, a crossbreed with minor luxation of both patellae. While the condition does not currently bother him, it does require ongoing veterinary monitoring, which can deter adopters wary of extra costs.

Dogs Trust highlights that medical needs, even when minor, often become a deciding factor for families weighnig the responsibilities of pet ownership.

Why do older dogs still get overlooked?

Experts point to a persistent myth that older dogs cannot learn new tricks. McGuinness adds that “older dogs are overlooked because people assume they won’t be able to learn new things,” despite evidence that senior dogs are often house‑trained and eager for companionship .

Understanding these misconceptions is crucial, as older dogs like Lizzie Longlegs, a 10‑year‑old Saluki cross described as a “gentle soul,” can offer low‑maintenance companionship and a calm presence for the right family.

What still isn’t clear about adoption bias?

It remains uncertain how much of the adoption gap is driven by online platform algorithms veruss human prejudice. While Dogs Trust and Battersea provide data on size and colour trends, they have not disclosed specific click‑through statistics for each breed.

Furthermore, the charity has not identified which outreach strategies have been most effective in converting interest into adoptions for these long‑term residents.