Meet the 11 special needs dogs competing in the Puppy Bowl

The Super Bowl is on February 9, with Taylor Swift’s boyfriend Travis Kelce’s team, the Kansas City Chiefs, playing the Philadelphia Eagles. But real animal fans know the best part of Super Bowl Sunday is the annual Puppy Bowl. Every year, as giant men tackle each other, the cutest competitors ever hit their own field to ruff up the competition. This year marks Puppy Bowl XXI, featuring a record-breaking 142 dogs from 80 shelters across 40 states and two countries. While the event is all about tail-wagging fun, its ultimate goal is to encourage pet adoption by showcasing these lovable pups.

Among this year’s lineup are 11 incredible dogs with special needs, each ready to show the world that nothing can hold them back. From wheelchairs to visual or hearing impairments, these inspiring pups are proving that their disabilities don’t stop them from playing on and off the field. Per Gulf Coast K9 training, shelter statistics reveal that special needs dogs will wait up to four times longer than an able dog to be adopted, so remember that next time you consider welcoming a new family member. Meet the precious dogs ready to beat the odds on Sunday.

Maxx

Team Fluff | Nevada SPCA (NV)
After having his front leg amputated early in life, Maxx the Doberman Pinscher is ready to prove you can keep your balance and playful spirit with three legs.

Rocky

Team Ruff | Pets with Disabilities (MD)

Born with limb differences, this American Pit Bull Terrier is determined to bring home a win for Team Ruff with his unstoppable spirit.

Hewett

Team Fluff | MatchDog Rescue (NJ)
Missing one eye, this Chihuahua / Australian Cattle Dog mix is ready to bring his ancestral gifts to his team as a leader and determined asset.

Carl

Team Fluff | Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue (NY)
Carl might be blind, but this Bulldog mix has a connection with the ball. Unable to see his haters, he’s ready to lead Team Fluff to victory.

Trevor

Team Ruff | Green Dogs Unleashed (VA)
Trevor, a mixed breed who is deaf, is ready to bring his energy and spirit to Team Ruff.

Jolene

Team Ruff | Humane Society of Greater Dayton (OH)
A powerhouse on wheels, Jolene is an American Pit Bull Terrier / American Staffordshire Terrier mix. She may use a wheelchair, but it doesn’t slow her down.

Hunter

Team Fluff | Green Dogs Unleashed (VA)
Hunter is deaf and visually impaired, but this Doberman Pinscher is bringing his all to the field and is ready to impress with his good looks and tall legs for Team Fluff.

Sprinkle

Team Ruff | Danbury Animal Welfare Society (CT)
Blind and hearing impaired, Sprinkle is an Australian Shepherd / Great Pyrenees mix. She is undoubtedly one of the cutest dogs we can expect to watch.

Trio

Team Ruff | Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue (NY)
Born with a leg deformity, this tiny Boston Terrier packs a powerful kick. Trio’s big personality and determination make him a standout player for Team Ruff.

Winston

Team Fluff | Phoenix Animal Rescue (PA)
Blind in one eye, this mixed-breed pup isn’t letting anything stop him from keeping his eye on the prize.

Mindy

Team Ruff | Brandywine Valley SPCA (PA)
Visually impaired with beautiful blue eyes, Mindy, a Dachshund / Wire Fox Terrier mix has the will to be a standout player for Team Ruff.