Animals in Marbella Sanctuary

Chauen – Two and a Half Years Behind Bars, Still Full of Hope

Chauen arrived at the shelter in September 2023, at about one year old. He is a beautiful Malinois mix who was found, likely abandoned on the street, and brought to the shelter.

Chauen has now been living in a small cage for about two and a half years – far too long for such a young dog with so much life and love to give. Despite these difficult conditions, his spirit remains bright and hopeful, although loneliness is beginning to show in his eyes. Recently, we have also started to observe signs of stereotypical behaviors related to the stress of prolonged confinement.

At first, Chauen shared his space with other dogs and enjoyed the yard in their company. Over time, they were all adopted one by one, leaving him behind. This continued stress has made him somewhat tense around some unfamiliar dogs in the shelter, so now he lives alone without a cage mate. However, he sometimes shares the yard with another dog and is able to relax and enjoy that company in the right environment.

Outside the kennel, everything changes for Chauen. On walks and outings with a very dedicated volunteer, he shows a completely different side of himself. In these environments, he is perfectly capable of coexisting with other dogs, enjoying their presence and walking calmly alongside them. He especially loves going out with Yogurin, another young and playful male, and together they run through the fields, swim in the river, and enjoy the freedom that reflects his true nature.

One of the most special moments of his life is when this volunteer takes him out regularly several times a week, often along with Yogurin. They also travel very well in the car, and these short outings and changes of scenery are something he clearly looks forward to and enjoys immensely.

On walks, his curiosity and enthusiasm shine brightly. He is eager to explore every new smell and sound. Although he can sometimes pull on the leash, he responds well to his name and treats, showing intelligence and a willingness to learn.

What truly makes Chauen special is his love for people. He is an affectionate dog and clearly needs human connection. His expressive eyes seem to yearn for what he has been missing for so long: a family of his own.

In May 2026, Chauen and his best friend Yogurin were lucky enough to be chosen for a short adventure to the nearby village. Chauen behaved absolutely wonderfully from beginning to end. He jumped straight into the car without hesitation and settled in as if he had done it a thousand times before. Once in the village, he walked beautifully through the streets on a quiet Sunday. Even so, he handled everything with complete ease—passing dogs, people, children playing, and the occasional car—without flinching at all. He simply walked relaxed and confidently, as if he had always been a part of village life.

At one point, he happily stopped on a patch of grass to receive affection and even enjoyed rolling around a bit, savoring the moment with pure joy.

During the walk, a volunteer from the village drove by and stopped to say hello. Chauen's reaction was incredibly endearing: he was so happy to see her that he jumped right out of the car window to greet her and settled inside, demonstrating once again how much he enjoys car rides and familiar faces.

The rest of the walk continued just as well, including a stop at a playground with children playing nearby, which didn't bother him at all. He remained calm, happy, and very confident throughout the entire outing.
When it was time to head back, he was delighted to get back in the car… although once back at the kennel, he very politely decided he wasn't quite ready to get out yet. Totally understandable after such a lovely outing! In short, Chauen was simply exceptional—relaxed, sociable, self-assured, and clearly enjoying every moment of his little adventure.

Chauen deserves more than a life behind bars. He needs a home where he can run, play, and feel the sun on his fur. He's ready for a patient and loving family to give him the exercise, guidance, and affection he's been longing for.

If you're looking for a loyal and vibrant companion, Chauen could be the perfect dog. Come meet him, take him for a walk, and discover the bright spirit that's been waiting behind those bars for far too long. Perhaps he's been waiting for you.