English Setter puppies and dogs in South Haven, Michigan

Socialization:  Lacta is timid at first, but warms up quicky and is very social. She loves playing with other dogs, the game of Chase is her favorite! She is on the submissive side with other dogs but she tends to love everyone, with other dogs it's all about "Play"! If they choose not to play she is respectful, she is on the submissive side in general. She does have a strong prey drive, but I think she could live with a cat after some training. She was at a rescue event recently, and she did very well, she was friendly and playful with all the other dogs and happily said hello to all of the people.  Training:  Lactra does know stay when opening the car door. She does respond to "no". Lacta is on high alert at all times, so training is tricky, having another dog around would be beneficial. She will tolerate a crate. I would suggest one, especially when in a new home to re acclimate. Lacta is very reactive to sudden movement and loud noises close to her. She does best with consistency. She responds well to reassurance and praise. She will plant her feet and refuse to move forward if she is scared, if you get down to her level and give her a minute, she will show trust and move forward. She loves to say hi to people by jumping up on them, she is still learning to keep her paws on the ground when meeting people. Activity requirements:  For Lacta leash walks will not be sufficient on a daily basis. Lactra loves to run and play, either with other dogs or herself or you. We do our best to hit the dog park every day for a minimum of 30 minutes, if we miss the park we leash walk a good 2 miles. She is okay on a leash, does good with another dog too, her nose is usually to the ground. She will sometimes balk at strangers, and it's best to cross the street and avoid the confrontation. Lacta is strong and fast, capable of backing out of a collar or a harness. We did miss a couple days of exercise and she was able to accept that but I would not let her go for more than 2 days max, without exercise, just would not be fair to her. Fence requirements:  A decent size yard with a fence would be best with ample room to run, and dog parks work well for Lacta as well. The fence height wouldn't be much of an issue, 4 feet would be sufficient, she is very athletic, but I don't think she would escape, only if she was frightened. An invisible fence may be considered for her. Personality: Lacta is one of a litter of 6 puppies that Momma Roxy had in Lamia, Greece in late May 2024. Lacta is a lover 100%, she loves her human, and she loves canine company too. I think she would do best with another dog to show her the ropes! She, so far, is not really into toys, but tennnis balls seem to catch her eye from time to time. She does love to play! Medical history: Lacta is spayed, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations, and on monthly heartworm prevention. She is in good health. Her next leishmaniasis test is due in October 2026. This dog originates from Greece where Leishmaniasis is endemic. They tested negative before coming to the USA, but the parasite can remain dormant in the system for many years, so potential adopters must be willing to commit to annual testing for the next 7 years. Typically, the test needs to be sent to a special lab, but any regular vet can draw the blood and send it to the lab. The cost of the test seems to vary widely by area, but is approximately $150-$250. or if your vet is willing to send the test to a veterinary college lab, cost can be as low as $80. Foster comments: A good home for lacta would be a home with someone home most of the day, no more than 5 hrs a day alone, hopefully with another dog. Someone who has patience and knowledge of working with a shy dog, a potential adopter would really have to be able to accommodate a reactive, shy dog. I think she would make great companion for another dog who needed a friend. She would be do best in a home where there was not a lot of traffic of humans coming and going, a somewhat quiet home.  Foster location: Des Moines, IA ##2226241##

Socialization: Marios has never met a stranger! Strangers have loved to interact with him, as he will rest his head gently on their hands and look into their eyes. Talk about a schmoozer! He is well socialized with men and women, and while kids are currently unknown, we suspect he would do well with children given a calm introduction. Marios is extremely snuggly, and has picked “his person” in the foster home who he will dote on, cuddle with, and follow as a little shadow. He still loves the other adult in the home, providing plenty of snuggles, but his “person” is who he looks to for guidance, instruction, and routine. Marios loves other dogs. He would do best with another dog friend in the home to help his confidence. He is submissive and loves to wrestle and play vocally with dog friends, both big and small. He will rub his backside on a dog to try to instigate play, like a cat - it is very cute! He shares toys with the other dog in his foster home without issue. He has a 10/10 review at his doggy daycare, too! As for cats, Marios has expressed interest in outdoor cats, but has not interacted closely with them. However, he has met outdoor chickens, and he was easily corrected within a few days; now he coexists with them and ignores them when loose together. He does want to chase if they are running, but listens well when told no. He appears to have a lower prey drive compared to most setters. Given clear boundaries, we suspect he could live with cats. Training: Marios is still learning the ropes of living indoors. He is housetrained, no longer countersurfs, and understands “down” with a clear pointing down to get off furniture. Marios eats meals in his crate, but he is not comfortable being left home alone in a crate. We give Marios access to our dog-proof living room when we leave for short increments (1-2 hours). He will bark or whine for several minutes, but settles down on the couch comfortably with our dog for company and sleeps until we return. Marios benefits from clear boundaries. From day one, we established what furniture he was allowed on (the couch) and not allowed on (the bed), as well as what he could and couldn’t chew. He has learned quickly, but will likely need these boundaries reestablished in his new home. He does not like when his people leave him, although he has not been destructive and settles within 15-20 minutes. He will whine when first left alone, which can last up to 15 minutes, so he would not be suitable for apartment living. In two weeks, he is up to two hours by himself uncrated without issues. Adopters should be willing to continue training to work up to extended periods alone. Activity requirements: Marios is an easy keeper. His routine is a morning romp in the backyard, a leash walk in the evening, and backyard play afterwards including fetch and wrestling with the dog in the home. We leash walk him once a day, and he walks easily with no pulling. He will reliably potty on leash too. He settles down wonderfully in the home with a great off-switch. While his energy level is manageable, he gets out most of his energy by playing with our dog in the home. He does self-entertain with toys as well, but he would greatly benefit from another dog in the home to play with and learn from. Fence requirements: Marios loves to zoom around the backyard, but he would be a candidate for a home that has leash walks twice a day and visits dog parks regularly. For a fenced yard, it would need to be escape-proof, as he does test boundaries with fence gaps and unlatched gates. He has not shown an interest in climbing our fence or jumping it, but we would highly recommend “setter-proofing” the fence due to his risk of departure. Personality: If you’re looking for a new best friend that doubles as your own personal shadow, Marios is your guy. He loves his person, and he loves the people that come with his person! Bonus points if the person has a dog. Marios’s ideal day consists of a leash walk, playing with another dog, chewing on a toy, and taking a nap on the couch. He is an expert snuggler. If you are near him, expect him to rest his head on your leg or shoulder with his soulful puppy eyes looking up at you. His fur is soft as can be, which makes the snuggles even better. Marios has been a hoot in the neighborhood. Everyone thinks he’s a puppy due to his size! His hobbies include sitting in the backyard squeaking his tennis ball, and chasing the tennis ball, bringing it close… and dropping it several feet away from you before stopping by for snuggles. He hasn’t quite mastered “fetch” yet! While Marios is a confident dog, he is still timid as he’s learning the ways of the world. In busy environments, he will be fearful, but given time and patience, he actively works through his fears. His trainer described him as “resilient,” and we agree. With that being said, his adopter should be alert in high stimulation environments, as his first reaction is to flee from the scary stimuli! Health history: Marios was emaciated when he was found by the rescue, and he had an ear infection. He is continuing to put on weight, and his ear infection has since cleared. He is neutered, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations, and on monthly heartworm prevention. His next leishmaniasis test is due in September, 2026. This dog originates from Greece where Leishmaniasis is endemic. They tested negative before coming to the USA, but the parasite can remain dormant in the system for many years, so potential adopters must be willing to commit to annual testing for the next 7 years. Typically, the test needs to be sent to a special lab, but any regular vet can draw the blood and send it to the lab. The cost of the test seems to vary widely by area, but is approximately $150-$250. or if your vet is willing to send the test to a veterinary college lab, cost can be as low as $80. Foster comments: Marios would benefit from an experienced dog owner, especially one with another playful dog in the home, or an adopter who is committed to working with a trainer to continue building his confidence. He has a soft temperament and learns best from R+ training. Foster location: Gainesville, FL ##2535670##

Socialization: If Rex was any more social he'd be a party planner! Rex is insulted if someone walks by him and doesn't stop to pet him or tell him what a handsome guy he is. Rex greets everyone-- man, woman or child-- in the same manner, with a wagging tail. Rex is just as friendly with other dogs but due to to his physical limitations he doesn't engage in play with them. Rex loves sleeping with his humans but will also curl up with a furry friend. Training:  Rex, if human, could be a personal trainer! He definitely trained his fosters to take him for car rides and walks. Rex will stand by the door and roo until he has his human's attention. He's got good recall and will come but sometimes after a long day he may need a little help getting up. Rex is not crated and has free roam in the house with the other dogs. He's very well behaved if you don't consider the one time he pulled the tablecloth off the table and brought everything down on the floor. Activity requirements:  Rex will require short daily walks to maintain the progress he's made through physical therapy and hydrotherapy. He's great on a leash but his stubborn streak comes out when it's time to turn around and head home. If he's not ready to go home he will plop his furry butt down on the sidewalk. He's clearly stating he wants the walk to continue but a ride home in his stroller may be what's best. Before Rex was able to go on daily walks, he would ride in his stroller. He loves the attention he receives from passerby's. Rex's stroller will go with him when adopted. Fence requirements:  Rex is not a runner or fence climber so a fence is not required. Supervision in the yard is required at all times. Rex will wander. Invisible fence is also an option for him. Personality:  Rex has been described in many ways, charming, adorable, social and playful but let's not forget stubborn and a lil' stinker. His first few weeks here he was in some discomfort while recovering from surgery. Once his pain was under control and he started therapy, his true personality started to emerge. He enjoys cuddling and loves to be groomed. He tries to be first in line for brushing. Rex has a lot to say and makes his desires known by rooing! Health history:  Rex has had quite a lot to deal with physically. While in Greece he had arthroscopic surgery to fix and stabilize his elbows. Afterwards, he had 2 TPLO surgeries to fix torn cruciate ligaments in both his knees. Rex had physical therapy while in foster care that included hydrotherapy, both underwater treadmill and swim, laser treatments and canine myotheraphy. He currently takes daily supplements and medications which he will need to continue on along with some type of physical therapy. Rex will never be a star athlete but he is at the top of his game in rooing and cuddling. This dog originates from Greece where Leishmaniasis is endemic. They tested negative before coming to the USA, but the parasite can remain dormant in the system for many years, so potential adopters must be willing to commit to annual testing for the next 7 years. Typically, the test needs to be sent to a special lab, but any regular vet can draw the blood and send it to the lab. The cost of the test seems to vary widely by area, but is approximately $150-$250. or if your vet is willing to send the test to a veterinary college lab, cost can be as low as $80. Foster comments:  Nothing about Rex's journey was easy and that's what makes him extraordinary. Rex's medical condition is only part of his whole self, it does not define who he is. Rex could barely walk, let alone get up on his own when he first arrived here but Rex soon became an active participant in his rehabilitation. He never stopped fighting for his chance to heal. Rex has physical needs that need to be addressed but he is in may ways your typical happy go lucky pup. He loves toys, cuddles, playing in the yard, people, walks, stroller rides and rooing! He's a daily reminder that second chances are worth believing in. Rex may have physical limitations but his love knows no bounds. Foster location: Schamburg, IL ##2238216##

Socialization:  He likes to play with both toys and other dogs, and he shares his toys nicely with the other dogs in our household. He also likes to join his brother on the couch and get some attention and cuddles by your side. He loves petting and affection and likes to cuddle with his people on the sofa. He has respected the baby gates and barriers better than previous fosters. He is very treat-motivated but gets confused on what he needs to do to get his treat. With some patience and work his training will continue to improve. There are no cats or children in Atlas’s foster home. He is very affectionate but not always respectful of personal space, so he would need to be watched closely with toddlers or small children to ensure he didn’t accidentally knock them over. We don’t have any cats in the house, but he has demonstrated a strong prey drive with the squirrels and chicken outside the yard. He would likely view a cat as prey or something he can play with, although he is probably young enough to learn to respect a family cat with time, patience and training. Atlas has been living with a large pack of 12 other dogs. He has demonstrated no aggression or dominance behavior, and he gets along well with all of them. He likes to play with his siblings and with a couple of the other dogs in the pack but also seems comfortable doing his own thing. He quickly learned the pack dynamics including which dogs he could play with and which dogs wanted their space. He would do best with a family with another dog to keep him company and provide a friend for him to play with. Training: His recall is good, and he normally comes back to me if I call for him. He was a leg lifter when he first arrived but has since stopped that behavior. When he gets nervous or scared, he sometimes has a dribble, so we have been keeping him in a belly band. More often than not, his belly band stays clean. He isn’t quite 100% perfect with his housebreaking, but he’s getting close. Atlas is crate trained and sleeps in one during the night. He knows he needs to go to his crate for meals and/or treats and then waits patiently to be let back out.  He sleeps peacefully in his crate at night and when we are away from the house, but if he sees you, he likes to remind you that he is in the crate and wants to get out. He does settle down well in his crate but will bark again if he hears or sees something in the dead of night. We have been putting a blanket on one side of his crate so he can’t see anything through the windows during the night, but he can see the other dogs sleeping in crates near him. He got some practice with leash-walking since the weather has improved and he walks very well on the leash.  Activity requirements: Atlas is an energetic puppy with a sensitive side. His preference is for play both inside and outside. He likes to play with his brother outside and then he switches to play with his sister inside. Atlas is a typical, energetic puppy who loves to play with toys, sticks, and other dogs. He will happily play and romp with reciprocating playmates.  He has been very good at checking back in with me when in the yard but loves to run the fence line and bark at the neighboring squirrels and chicken. He likes to stay out and play with his pack and will normally follow his playmates back inside to continue the romping inside. He does calm down nicely indoors, and he likes to sprawl out on the couch. The couch is his safe space, and he is more than happy to share it with someone that will give him affection. Fence requirements: A fence is always preferred. If he doesn’t have a fenced yard to run and play, he will need time at the dog park or a doggy day care to expend his puppy energy and desire to play. He has not challenged the fence, but we are confident that he would come back to us if he got out of the yard. Personality: Atlas is a peppy puppy but is still building his confidence. He loves to play, cuddle and get affection but gets shy and tentative with new experiences. He looks to his pack for cues on how to tackle new challenges, so he would do best in a house with another dog who is more confident. He didn’t handle the first 24 hours of being neutered very well since he was wearing a cone and being asked to maneuver around on a leash, but he observed the rest of his siblings overcoming the obstacles and was back to being a lively puppy in a couple of days. He has claimed the couch as his safe space and likes to plant himself on it whenever there is space. He is not always a fan of the Michigan winter and has been known to stay on the couch while his two siblings want to run headlong into the cold night. He is a great puppy who just needs to continue building his confidence or be helped along with a demonstration by another of his pack mates. Health history:  Atlas is neutered, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations, and on monthly heartworm prevention. He is due for his next Leishmaniasis test in December 2025. This dog originates from Greece where Leishmaniasis is endemic. They tested negative before coming to the USA, but the parasite can remain dormant in the system for many years, so potential adopters must be willing to commit to annual testing for the next 7 years. Typically, the test needs to be sent to a special lab, but any regular vet can draw the blood and send it to the lab. The cost of the test seems to vary widely by area, but is approximately $150-$250. or if your vet is willing to send the test to a veterinary college lab, cost can be as low as $80. Foster comments: Atlas is a very sweet puppy. He started out quite timid and shy but has gradually become more confident and social over time. He loves his foster family and is very affectionate with all the people he knows. He is still a bid timid with new people, but quickly overcomes it if they offer him treats and love. He is a smart puppy who is learning what is expected of him. He now goes straight to his crate for meals or treats and is very good at coming to you when you call him. Atlas loves a good cuddle on the couch, and he is a perfect companion to snuggle up and watch a movie with on a cold winter night. Atlas would really like another friendly dog to play with in his new home. He is social with other dogs and loves to romp and play, and he does so very nicely. He would also benefit from having another dog to learn from. Atlas would do best with a family that is patient and kind – he’s very sensitive, so he needs gentle correction to continue learning what is expected of him. According to the DNA test we did, Atlas’s mom is a purebred setter (combination of English and Llewellyn setter) and his dad was a mix of setter, german shepherd, brittany and a few other breeds. Foster location: Temperance, MI ##2226113##

Archi is a smart, sensitive, and thoughtful dog who’s looking for a very special kind of human. While he’s had a tough past and can be skeptical of people, Archi truly wants connection — he just needs to build trust on his own terms. This beautiful boy thrives in a calm, structured environment where he feels safe and in control. Once he knows he can trust you, you'll see his curious, playful side begin to shine. Archi does best with people who approach training as a lifestyle — gentle, consistent, and rooted in relationship-building. He responds well to games, play, and positive reinforcement, and will flourish with someone who finds joy in the process, not just the outcome. Archi needs: An experienced, emotionally consistent adopter A quiet, child-free home Someone who’s patient, confident, and committed to long-term training A structured environment where he can feel safe Ideally, a home with another calm dog to help guide him Archi isn't the kind of dog who’s ready to jump into your arms on day one — but for the right person, he’ll be an incredibly loyal and rewarding companion. If you believe in giving dogs the time they need and celebrating progress over perfection, Archi might just be your perfect match.  If you are interested in adopting, fostering or fostering to adopt, please see https://www.newbeginningsrescue.org/apply for our application form! This dog originates from Greece where Leishmaniasis is endemic. They tested negative before coming to the USA, but the parasite can remain dormant in the system for many years, so potential adopters must be willing to commit to annual testing for the next 7 years. Typically, the test needs to be sent to a special lab, but any regular vet can draw the blood and send it to the lab. The cost of the test seems to vary widely by area, but is approximately $150-$250. or if your vet is willing to send the test to a veterinary college lab, cost can be as low as $80. ##2238111##

Socialization: He can be cautious at first when he meets new people but readily adapts if he does not feel threatened. I have taken him to restaurants. He sits at my side, we are working with him to lay down and relax. He allows strangers to pet him without any issues. Solo is one of 5 dogs at my house. He gets long with all of them and likes to play. He has started to demonstrate some inappropriate behavior with one of my younger male dogs. We are working on that.  We do not have cats but I can cat test; however, he does have a strong prey drive. He has not been around many of children. He has been around my nephews who are 13 and 11. There were no issues but they are both fairly dog savvy. Training: Solo knows sit and touch. He puts himself to bed most nights in the crate. He is crated if we are not home. He sometimes barks initially but he is not barking when we return home. He is playful with toys and has learned where the toy boxes are. We are working on a down. He knows stay, we are working on increasing distance, duration and distraction. He rides well in the car. He is anxious when I leave the house, even with my husband home and the 4 other dogs. I am working on this and it has improved greatly. He is not destructive, he just paces and pants. We are also doing relaxation training to help with his anxiousness when I leave him. Activity requirements: I think Solo would love to be able to run in a large yard. Our yard is small but he does enjoy chasing toys and the other dogs. We walk about a mile and a half a day. I am working on leash training. He does well with a bridle head collar. Fence requirements: Solo would need a tall fence if left unattended in a back yard. He is very athletic and would jump a short fence. Our fence is six feet and that has been fine. He would do fine with long walks. He would need 2-3 walks a day if he did not have a backyard. He does not pee on his walks very often, so if there is not a fenced backyard one would have to be patient training to pee/poop on a leash. Invivisble fence may also be an option for an experienced owner. Personality: Solo is a sweet boy. He can be very velcro but he is learning independence as he settles in. He loves to be pet and will settle at you feet or next to you on the couch if invited. He has become very playful with his toys. He will grow into being more social given patience and time. He is happiest being in the room with his person. Health history: He is neutered, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations, and on monthly heartworm prevention. No medical issues. He did have loose stools at first but that is resolved at this time. I would recommend slowly changing diet when he is adopted. His next leishmaniasis test is due July, 2026. This dog originates from Greece where Leishmaniasis is endemic. They tested negative before coming to the USA, but the parasite can remain dormant in the system for many years, so potential adopters must be willing to commit to annual testing for the next 7 years. Typically, the test needs to be sent to a special lab, but any regular vet can draw the blood and send it to the lab. The cost of the test seems to vary widely by area, but is approximately $150-$250. or if your vet is willing to send the test to a veterinary college lab, cost can be as low as $80. Foster comments: Solo has a story to tell. I am looking for an adopter who is an experienced dog owner and will be patient and let his story unfold. He wants to please. He is learning that humans and homes are safe places and he will be loved. He sits so pretty to be pet. I think he would do best with an another dog that is calm, confident and playful. Being in California, I would be willing to drive an additional 500 miles for the right adopter to add to the 1000 mile transport route. Foster location:  Long Beach, CA Additional video: https://youtu.be/YwRZTUv_vS4 ##2513918##