Starting today on CesarsWay.com, we are featuring the adorable faces and stories of this year’s “12 Dogs of Christmas” – a photo collection of pups from shelters and rescues across the country who need a home this holiday season.

Meet our first four Christmas dogs:

Mimi, Mid-Atlantic region (including Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C): Mimi is a 2-year-old “Schnoodle” (Schnauzer and Poodle). She was rescued from a puppy mill and needs to work on her leash skills a bit, but Mimi is ready to find her forever home and receive the attention she so deserves. Mimi would do best in a home with other dogs and a fenced yard. Mimi's owner must also be willing to take her through a basic dog obedience class and provide proof of completion within six months of the adoption. If you would like to learn more about Mimi, please contact linda@schnauzerrescue.net. **This organization can only accept applications within a reasonable driving distance in the areas of coverage.

Destiny, Ohio: Destiny is truly a miracle pup. She was hit by a mini van on the same street that the Canine Justice Network’s President, Natasha Madison, lives. She was immediately rushed to the vet where she received very expensive treatment for two very badly hurt legs and a broken toe. Destiny had to undergo a long series of painful bandage changes for a couple months, but she is now healed and doesn't require any special care. She is very sweet and affectionate, and overall just an excellent family pet! We believe Destiny is around 8 to 10 months of age. If you are interested in Destiny, get more information here!

Kiko, Wisconsin: Kiko is a two-year-old Lab/Beagle Mix who was surrendered by his previous owners after they had a new baby and decided to make some changes. He is now looking for a new home to call his own. He is young and active, and would love to find a new family to go on life's next adventure with. If you are looking for a big boy that loves attention and is very outgoing then please learn more about Kiko here!

Cole, Alabama: Cole was turned into the humane society by an animal loving couple that found him with an imbedded collar in his neck. After intensive surgery and some time to heal, Cole has fully recovered! While his body is tough, his handlers at the shelter describe this 7-year-old guy is one big mushy “love bug” on the inside. Cole does not show aggression to other dogs, but he is a bulldog and does not back down from a challenge, so the rescuers feel he would do best in a single-pet household. If you are interested in learning more about Cole, please check out the Humane Society of Elmore County!

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Want to see more adoptable dogs? Consider visiting your local shelter or rescue to meet the many dogs there that need homes just as desperately and deservingly as our featured 12 Dogs of Christmas.

Remember that if you decide to take on a new canine family member this holiday, be prepared for the responsibility that follows. Ask yourself: Are you emotionally and financially able and willing to take care of any medical or behavioral issues that may be present or develop? Are you ready to be the pack leader every day?

When adopting, don't gravitate toward the dog with the cutest face or the saddest story. Take your time and find the right match for your family’s energy level and lifestyle. Start the relationship off with everyone in your household practicing calm-assertive energy and remaining consistent in the rules, boundaries, and limitations you set from day one. If you follow those steps and step up as the pack leader, you will find that dogs are the ultimate "gift that keeps on giving" with a lifetime of trust, respect, and loyalty all year long.

Additional reading:

The Rules of Adoption

Finding a Dog with the Right Energy

*Note: CesarsWay.com and the Millan Foundation have relied on information about the adoptable “12 Dogs of Christmas” from our trusted Shelter Stars partners. Cesar Millan, the Millan Foundation, and Cesar Millan Inc. have not had the pleasure of personally meeting the dogs featured here and cannot attest to their physical or behavioral health. For more on the Shelter Stars program, please visit: http://www.millanfoundation.org/programs/shelterstars.php