German Shepherd and Chihuahua Mix Found 'Surviving' Together in Chicago-Now They Need One More Miracle
We see bonded animals everywhere. Frog and Toad. Lady and the Tramp. Snoopy and Woodstock. The adorable pair in this video might be the same species, but they couldn't be more different, and yet, they're the best of friends.
The Anti-Cruelty Society of Chicago recently rescued a German Shepherd and his BFF, a Chihuahua mix. The organization posted a bit about their story on their Facebook page: "Not long ago, they were found near a Chicago rail line with only each other to lean on."
NBC Chicago showcased them in a TikTok video, hoping to spread the word. In it, we get to see exactly how much these guys love each other. They play surprisingly well together, and the little guy sleeps on top of his big "brother." It's adorable and then some.
@nbcchicago The two dogs found surviving together near a rail line in Chicago are now looking for a forever home after their unexpected bond left them inseparable. The surprising pairing between Bird, a Chihuahua short coat and pug mix, and Dee, a German Shepherd, has generated a viral response on social media. NBC Chicago's @lexisutter has their story. #dogs#pets#adoption#adopt#animalshelter
original sound - NBC Chicago - NBC Chicago
Commenters begged TikTok audiences to swoop in and adopt Bird and Dee, with numerous posters jumping in to say they were interested. @anniemanty put it best with, "Adopting a bonded pair is so special, highly recommend it."
Luckily, we already have an update on this heartwarming story. The Anti-Cruelty Society posted on their Facebook that the duo was adopted together into a beautiful family.
Related: Abandoned Kitten Finds a Protector in a Border Collie-and Now She's Thriving
Why Bonded Pairs Have a Hard Time Getting Adopted
My Chihuahuas came to me as a bonded pair, and they were really hard to adopt together before I found them. Smokey was pretty skittish at first since he wasn't socialized as a puppy, while Bandit got his name because he stole everyone's heart. It's truly a gift when two animals get to stay together, but it can be hard to find the right family for dogs who come as part of a team.
Many people go into a shelter looking for one animal, and balk at the idea of bringing home two. The thinking is that it comes with twice as much responsibility, and therefore; it will be a bigger challenge to the family. It's true that double the dog means more time spent ensuring each beastie gets to bond on an individual level. But the benefits of having a support system for a new pet often far outweigh the costs.
Adopt a Pet explains it well: "A built-in playmate naturally provides the stimulation and security many cats and dogs need to reduce the potential for neurotic behaviors to develop. For pet parents who feel guilty or concerned about leaving their pet alone while at work, having a bonded pair can do a lot to alleviate those concerns."
In this case, a family came through for these buddies who now get to stay together.
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This story was originally published May 10, 2026 at 7:20 AM.