How big? Small
How old? Adult (around 3-4 years)
Male or female? Female
Living with kids? I can live with older children
Living with dogs? I can live with other dogs
Resident dog required? No
Living with cats? I’ve not been tested with cats
Where can I live? I’d like a calm, semi-rural home
Where am I from? Bosnia

About Mara

Mara is a soft natured girl who has likely seen far too much hardship in her life. She was rescued from a public shelter in Bosnia, of which are renowned for their terrible conditions. Amid the chaos, noise and squalor, Mara just blended into the background and waited for someone to notice her. Although her early history remains unknown, her gentle and reserved manner speaks volumes about the kind of life she has likely endured. She’s known at the shelter as ‘the sad dog’.

Mara is calm, quiet and reserved. The shelter volunteers, surrounded by other dogs with bigger characters, almost forget she’s there until she gently comes to stand beside them. She is like a little lamb and doesn’t ask for anything other than kindness. She walks beautifully on the lead, never pulling or rushing (so ideal for an older couple), and although she willingly accepts affection, there’s a hesitation that suggests she’s not quite sure whether she should trust or not. She never protests or shows fear, but there is a caution about her that will only heal with time, patience, and a secure, loving home.

Mara gets along well with other dogs but tends to stand aside, preferring to observe rather than join in. She doesn’t seek out play and is never a source of conflict, she simply shares space quietly and respectfully. She could live alongside other calm, older dogs or would be equally happy as the only dog in a peaceful home.

Mara is good with older children who are gentle and respectful, but she would likely find the energy and unpredictability of very young children overwhelming. She would be happiest in a calm household where life moves at a more relaxed pace, ideally in a countryside or semi-rural environment where she can enjoy easy, peaceful walks away from the noise of busy streets.

She has not been tested with cats yet, but based on her behaviour, she would likely be fine given careful introductions.

Mara would suit adopters looking for a gentle, mature dog to share a quiet with, someone who will appreciate her softness, her dignity, and her need for security. She doesn’t ask for much, but in the right home, she will blossom into a gentle, loyal companion who is simply grateful to be part of something safe and kind.

Please note all our Bosnian dogs arrive to kennels based in Ormskirk when they get to the UK. Adopters are required to arrange collection from there.