Are Pippa and Polly Sisters? The Big DNA Reveal!
If you’ve been following along, you already know the incredible transformation of Pippa and Polly. When we first met them, they were a bonded pair—both scared, both in rough shape, but both clinging to each other for comfort. From the beginning, we called them sisters, but were they actually related? Thanks to a DNA test, we now have the answer! (Watch the full video reveal above)
Polly’s Recovery After Surgery
Polly has come a long way since we first brought her home. If you remember, she was pretty grumpy—rightfully so, considering the pain she was in. But after surgery, Polly became a different dog. She’s still the boss of the pack, quick to bark orders (literally), but she’s also sweet and affectionate.
Pippa’s Incredible Transformation
Pippa, on the other hand, has undergone one of the most stunning makeovers we’ve seen. She arrived nearly hairless, her skin raw and irritated. Some people thought she might be a Chinese Crested! Fast forward to today—she’s fluffy, energetic, and looks like a puppy. The shelter listed her as six years old, but now? She could easily pass for much younger.
The DNA Results Are In!
We ran DNA tests to answer two key questions:
- Are Pippa and Polly actually related?
- What breeds make up these adorable pups?
Polly’s DNA Results:

- 37.1% Chihuahua
- 17.2% Maltese
- 12% Shih Tzu
- 8.1% Rat Terrier
- 8.1% Pekingese
- 6.6% Poodle
- Supermutt Mix (including Toy Fox Terrier, Lhasa Apso, Havanese)
Pippa’s DNA Results:

- 37.4% Shih Tzu
- 31.8% Yorkshire Terrier
- Supermutt Mix (including Lhasa Apso, Poodle, Chihuahua, and—yes!—Chinese Crested at 7%)
The Verdict: Are They Sisters?

We were convinced they were at least distantly related. They were surrendered together, bonded, and they seem to recognize each other like family. But according to their DNA results… they are not biologically related!
Shocking, right? We thought for sure they’d at least share some DNA, but nope. Despite being from the same place and acting like lifelong companions, they are just two dogs who found comfort in each other during a tough time. And honestly, that makes their bond even more special.
Next Steps: Adoption Time!

Regardless of DNA, Pippa and Polly are family, and they will only be adopted together. Their bond is unbreakable, and separating them just isn’t an option.
Before they’re officially available for adoption, Pippa has one last step—an allergy test. While we’ve improved her diet significantly, we want to pinpoint any remaining issues so her future family can provide the best care possible. Once that’s done, they’ll be ready to find their forever home!
Training Tips & Learning Opportunities
- Managing Bossy Dogs – Polly’s leadership skills are impressive, but she needed guidance to channel her energy in a positive way. Training a bossy dog means rewarding good behavior and setting clear boundaries.
- Helping Hairless Dogs Recover – Pippa’s transformation was largely thanks to a tailored diet and skin care routine. If you ever adopt a dog with similar issues, working with a vet to address underlying causes is key.
- Building Confidence in Rescues – Both Polly and Pippa needed time to adjust. Using positive reinforcement, slow introductions to new situations, and consistent routines helped them feel safe.
Treat Time & Flip Coffee Shoutout
Throughout this process, treats were a huge motivator for both dogs. We kept it simple with beef, coconut, and pumpkin-based treats to avoid allergy triggers for Pippa. Oh, and if you saw the live video, you know we were fueled by Flip Coffee’s new caramel mocha blend—because saving dogs is hard work, and great coffee makes it easier!
Share & Stay Tuned
Pippa and Polly’s adoption announcement is coming soon, so if you know someone who’d love these two, stay tuned! And if you haven’t already, make sure to share their story—because every share helps dogs like them find loving homes.
Are you surprised by their DNA results? Let us know what you think!