Large Dogs for Adoption in Lincoln, CA: 14 Big Dogs Looking for a Home
By Dogs of the Day · Updated

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Lincoln have 14 large dogs up for adoption. Here are all 14, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.
Big dogs often wait longer for homes than small ones, though many are gentle, loyal and easy-going. Every dog on this page is listed by their rescue as large or extra large, with breeds like German Shepherd, American Pit Bull Terrier and Cane Corso Mastiff.
Not in Lincoln? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Jack formerly Gomez
Puppy · Male · German Shepherd Dog · 24 mi from Lincoln




Hi, everybody! Guess what?! I've left my shelter name, Gomez, behind and am now going by Jack. I’m just 12 weeks old, and last week I left the shelter with my littermates to start a brand-new adventure with ShepHeroes! I have a lot to learn about this big, exciting world, so I’m going to need a little time to get my paws on the ground before I can tell you all about myself.After leaving the shelter, I spent a night at a foster home in Sacramento with Pumkin and Larry Munster, got a bath and nail trims, and then headed off to my next adventure in San Jose. Then I lived as the solo puppy good life with a whole tribe of friendly German Shepherds who welcomed me in! I even got to go on a pack walk, all safe and cozy in my foster mom's doggie backpack.
Read more about Jack formerly Gomez
My first foster home in SJ was for a few days, while I waited for my intended, and current, foster family to be ready to take me to their house. So I'm now living with a retriever and a ShepHeroes alum and a baby. I absolutely love snuggles and exploring everything around me! My meds helped me recover from kennel cough, which I caught at the shelter. I’ve got lots of growing, playing, and exploring ahead, and I’ll be back soon with more puppy news! Love,Your newest little ShepHeroes recruit
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
2. Larry Munster
Puppy · Male · German Shepherd Dog · 24 mi from Lincoln




Hi, everybody! I’m just 12 weeks old, and I arrived at ShepHeroes with my littermates Pumkin and Jack, aka Gomez! We’re starting a brand-new adventure, and I’m pretty sure lots of exciting things are ahead.My foster family decided to call me Larry Munster, adding Larry to my shelter name. I’ve settled in, and I've even gone to my foster mom's office with her, so I’ll have more to share once I’ve had a chance to explore, play, and show everyone what makes me special. I love cuddles, have the softest coat per my foster, and love to follow her around the house. I'm working on potty training, crate training, and sleeping through the night.
Read more about Larry Munster
We spent our first night out of the shelter with a foster family, getting baths and desperately needed nail trims. After a good night's sleep with lots of playtime with each other and the resident shepherds, plus another foster dog, four-year-old Daisy, who watched over us like all good female shepherds. I adored my bath whereas my littermates weren't so sure it was a good thing. We met Daisy's forever family the morning we were getting back on the road to head to our next foster homes, as she was getting adopted.I'm the only puppy in my current foster home, and I love all the attention and snuggles. To grow, I'm taking lots of naps, as puppies need 16-18 hours of sleep. But I'll be seeing Pumkin et al. frequently for playdates. Stay tuned! My story is just beginning!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
3. Pumkin
Puppy · Female · German Shepherd Dog · 24 mi from Lincoln




Guess who just arrived at ShepHeroes?! Hi, everyone! I’m a 12-week-old German Shepherd puppy, and I busted out of the shelter with my littermates, Jack (aka Gomez) and Larry Munster, to land in rescue! We’ve spent the last week settling in, so there’s lots more to share about our little puppy adventures. The three of us spent a night in a Sacramento foster home, waiting for our ride to San Jose the next day. Baths, nail trims - snuggles made those weird experiences better. Larry Munster enjoyed his bath, though. Oh, and about those names you might see floating around? Those were shelter-given names, and honestly, we hadn't bothered learning them! We hear one of the perks of landing in a foster home is that our foster families get to pick our rescue names.
Read more about Pumkin
How fun is that?! And in the spirit of Halloween, I kept my name Pumkin because I'm just a sweet little pumkin. I am brave, independent, and a steady explorer. I easily incorporate into new households with their shepherds and other dogs, steady for sure. I love attention and snuggles like all pups, but I will also take my toy and happily hang out in my pen area during the day or in my crate all night.My foster family has two resident shepherds, and extended family has a couple of corgis; we have regular playdates. I also got to take a stroller ride with my own personal driver during the Fall Festival; my driver said I was such a well-behaved pup. I didn't need to jump out or explore because people kept coming to say sweet things to me and pet me throughout our time there. Stay tuned, friends! I'll keep giving you updates as I get to go on more adventures.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
4. Coraline
Puppy · Female · German Shepherd Dog · 24 mi from Lincoln




At just 12 weeks old, this adorable German Shepherd puppy traveled by car from the shelter with her two littermates, ready to begin her journey toward finding a forever family. Coraline has settled beautifully into her foster home, winning hearts with her joyful spirit, playful energy, and wonderfully steady temperament. She's curious about the world around her, loves discovering toys, and is blossoming into a delightful little companion.Coraline lives with resident shepherds, two cats, and three teens, and she's adapting to family life like a pro! She's learned to use the doggy door and is making great progress with potty training.
Read more about Coraline
She's already shown she can hold it, making house-training much easier, although she'll still need supervision and consistency as she grows. She also does well around the resident cats, leaving kitties alone with gentle reminders.This sweet girl loves being wherever her people are. She's an affectionate little cuddler who soaks up attention and enjoys being part of the action. As the day winds down, Coraline settles into her crate and sleeps a wonderful eight hours through the night!With her steady temperament, affectionate nature, and impressive progress with all the new things she's learning, Coraline is off to a fantastic start. On all her outings, she's a magnet for kids, and she responds gently to their excitement to meet a puppy. We can't wait to see her continue to blossom into the amazing companion she's meant to be.Coraline is looking for a family ready for all the fun, love, training, and adventures that come with raising a German Shepherd puppy. Could she be the perfect addition to your family?Her littermate Frankie was just adopted, and Rocket just relocated from San Jose to Sacramento while his regular foster family's out of town.Interested in learning more? Fill out an application, and we'll connect you. Have you checked out our YouTube channel? We would greatly appreciate your support by subscribing, liking, and commenting on the videos we share of our adoptable shepherds in action. You can also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and our newest Threads account, where we post plenty of news and updates about our shepherds.As a foster-based rescue, ShepHeroes always needs fosters. An overwhelming number of shepherds in our local shelters need our help for a fresh start. Would you share your home and part of your life to help shepherds find new families? You provide the love, and we'll provide everything else! Saying "yes" today truly saves a life. Complete this https://www.shepheroes.org/foster-form, and we'll be in touch ASAP! We appreciate your consideration.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
5. Rocket
Puppy · Male · German Shepherd Dog · 24 mi from Lincoln




Rocket is joining his buddy, Joey, from 10 to 1 on Saturday, October 31st, at our booth on Q Street between 7th and 18th Streets in Sacramento for the annual Tricks for Treats hosted by Leash and Collar Pet Boutique. Meet Rocket! This charming 12-week-old puppy began his journey with two littermates, Frankie and Coraline, and has already shown remarkable resilience and spirit. While Frankie has since found her furever home, Rocket and Coraline are now ready for their own loving families.Rocket absolutely adores people and has a playful love for toys. He’s learning the ropes from the resident shepherd and one of our beloved alums, who are helping him settle in and become the best companion he can be.
Read more about Rocket
He's learned lots of skills such as sit, out, leave it, pee potty, place, and when tired, he will self-crate for a nap. He puts himself to bed in his crate at 8 pm, has a quick potty break at midnight, and sleeps until 6 am. With his irresistibly handsome looks and floppy ear tips—now perking up more each day—Rocket has truly blossomed. After good nutrition and TLC, he’s gaining weight, and his coat is starting to shine just like his siblings’. Watching him explore his foster home, enjoy the yard, and finally rest easy after his time on the streets and in the shelter has been a joy. He soaks up every bit of love from the resident shepherd, who can’t get enough of this puppy.When he’s not following his best buddy, the resident shepherd, he’s always ready for snuggles and kisses—he truly thrives on attention. He’s had several accident-free days, which have continued with reminders and guidance appropriate for his age, and he has no problem letting you know what’s on his mind, sharing his opinions in classic shepherd style.When Rocket’s foster family left for a preplanned vacation, he traveled to his next foster home in Sacramento, where he now lives with two shepherds and a cat. He’s already mastered the doggy door, respectfully ignores the senior cat, and absolutely loves his crate—especially when it’s filled with his growing pile of favorite toys. Rocket is excellent in the car, traveling for several hours while napping in his travel crate. He's also good on leash, taking short excursions around his neighborhood courtyard. While waiting for his new foster family, Rocket spent a couple of hours with new friends—including our adoptable Joey—and showed how steady and adaptable he is. He fit right in, playing with toys and even enjoying a game of tug with a senior alum.In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Rocket is proudly sporting a pink leash!Interested in learning more? Please submit an application, and we’ll reach out to chat about Rocket.Have you checked out our YouTube channel? We would greatly appreciate your support; please subscribe, like, and comment on the videos we share of our adoptable shepherds in action. You can also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and our newest Threads account, where we post plenty of news and updates about our shepherds.As a foster-based rescue, ShepHeroes always needs fosters. An overwhelming number of shepherds in our local shelters need our help to get a fresh start. Would you share your home and part of your life to help shepherds find new families? You provide the love, and we'll provide everything else! Saying "yes" today truly saves a life. Complete this https://www.shepheroes.org/foster-form, and we'll be in touch ASAP! We appreciate your consideration.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
6. Gus
Puppy · Male · Unknown breed / mixed · 8 mi from Lincoln



Meet Gus, a 5-month-old Shepherd mix who's as sweet and snuggly as they come! This brave boy is the ultimate heart-stealer, constantly seeking affection and wanting to be right by your side. While he's currently receiving care for a serious leg injury and awaiting a surgical consult, his loving spirit shines through every day. Gus is looking for a patient home where he can soak up all the cuddles he deserves while he heals. He is truly a special soul ready to be your loyal best friend! Check out more info and apply to adopt Gus at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_474eaf0ed5e9
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
7. Joey
Puppy · Male · German Shepherd Dog · 24 mi from Lincoln




Joey’s comeback story just keeps getting better! And he'll be hosting our table at Leash and Collar Sacramento's Annual Tricks for Treats event on Saturday, October 31st, from 10 am to 1 pm. Look for us on Q Street between 17th and 18th Streets. Joey’s world is getting bigger, and his happy personality is shining brighter every day! Eight weeks after his femur repair surgery, this resilient boy is enjoying short breaks from crate rest and rediscovering the fun of being a puppy. He loves his toys, has an impressive tug game, a wonderful recall, and an enthusiasm for treats!Joey had his first group lesson last week and also took a field trip to the feed store to check out all kinds of new smells.
Read more about Joey
And he was such a good boy, taking treats and learning to shake. Joey also went to Geisthaus Brewing Company for a Brewery Manners class with Wholistic Canine and was a super good boy at the Citrus Heights Food Plaza's Halloween event. He'll be back to low-key activities and crate confinement for a few days, but this time to recover from his neuter surgery. His surgical incision has healed, and he’s said goodbye to his e-cone. He’s also been practicing his vacation skills! Over Labor Day weekend, Joey joined his foster family for a getaway to Tahoe, where he rode beautifully in the car and enjoyed the mountain air from the deck. What a trooper!Joey’s journey began with a serious fracture of his right femur, broken into multiple fragments, along with an infected open wound. Thanks to the quick response of Hitchcock Road Animal Services, the generosity of our friends at @UCDavisFractureProgram, and a team of dedicated volunteers who arranged transport from Salinas to Davis in just hours, Joey got the urgent medical care he needed. Two plates were used to repair his femur, and he headed to his foster home on August 29 to begin his recovery.The road to healing called for strict crate rest, but Joey has made the most of his recovery. He’s mastered crate and potty training, discovered the joys of chew toys (especially while shedding his baby teeth!), and shown us just how much personality can shine through, even when a puppy has to take it easy.Now, as Joey has healed, we’re excited for everyone to meet this wonderful boy. He’s overcome a lot in his short life, and his future is looking brighter every day. His next big adventure? Finding a forever family who will love him as much as he deserves! Want to help Joey on his road to recovery? You can send toys and treats through our Chewy or Amazon wish lists, donate via Venmo at @shepheroes, or use the donate button next to his bio at shepheroes.org/adopt.Every bit of support helps Joey get one step closer to his happily ever after! We are very thankful for any support you can give as we just launched Ambra, aka Summer, to her forever home after 4 months with us while she healed from multiple surgeries. We continue to care for Otti, who has been with us for 9 months, has undergone two abdominal surgeries, and was recently diagnosed with EPI.Have you seen our YouTube channel? We would really appreciate your support by subscribing, liking, and commenting on our videos of adoptable shepherds in action. You can also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and our new Threads account, where we share lots of news and updates about our shepherds.Since ShepHeroes is a foster-based rescue, we always need more foster homes. Many shepherds in our local shelters need a fresh start. Would you open your home and share your life to help shepherds find new families? You provide the love, and we will take care of everything else. Saying "yes" today truly saves a life. Fill out the form at https://www.shepheroes.org/foster-form, and we will contact you soon. Thank you for considering it.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
8. Gemma
Adult · Female · German Shepherd Dog / Rottweiler / Mixed · 8 mi from Lincoln



Meet Gemma, who is ready to steal your heart! This gorgeous girl is the perfect blend of sweet and spirited. Whether she's chasing after her favorite toy or leaning in for a gentle cuddle, Gemma's playful personality shines through in everything she does. She is a loyal companion with a heart of gold, always eager to share her joyful spirit with everyone she meets. If you're looking for a smart, loving best friend to brighten your days, Gemma is your girl! Check out more info and apply to adopt Gemma at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_da57ab8b368c
- House-trained
9. Kit
Young · Female · American Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 8 mi from Lincoln



Meet Kit, a tiny adventurer with a huge heart! This feisty girl is already leading the way with her fearless and curious spirit. Whether she's investigating a new toy or exploring the great outdoors, Kit's silly antics are sure to keep you smiling. She is the perfect blend of play and affection; once her zoomies are done, she's ready to melt into your arms for endless belly rubs and snuggles. Kit is a charming little firecracker ready to bring a lifetime of love to her forever home! Check out more info and apply to adopt Kit at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_480f57847c9c
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
10. Duckie
Adult · Male · Cane Corso Mastiff · 8 mi from Lincoln



Duckie is a loving, loyal, and deeply people-oriented one-year-old boy. He wants to stay close to his person and thrives on companionship. He is calm, quiet, and low-barking; excellent with commands and recall; great on leash; potty trained, neutered, vaccinated, and crate trained. With other dogs, Duckie is mostly indifferent-he generally prefers humans over dog interaction. Check out more info and apply to adopt Duckie at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_446675bac5344082
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
11. Moe
Adult · Male · American Pit Bull Terrier · 8 mi from Lincoln



Meet Moe, a resilient 5-year-old soul with a heart made of pure gold. After a difficult start in a hoarding situation, this sweet baby is ready to embrace the life of luxury he truly deserves. Moe is the ultimate gentleman who loves soft blankets and gentle head scratches. His past hasn't dampened his spirits; it has only made him more appreciative of every kind word and belly rub. If you're looking for a loyal, loving companion to brighten your days, Moe is your guy! Check out more info and apply to adopt Moe at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_c0a29025a9c4
- House-trained
12. Otti
Puppy · Female · German Shepherd Dog · 24 mi from Lincoln




Meet Otti — Our Special Little Girl with a Whole Lot of Shepherd Love! We’re excited to announce that Otti will be joining Joey and Rocket at our booth this Saturday in Sacramento for the Tricks for Treats event, hosted by Leash and Collar Pet Boutique! All three are wonderful, adoptable shepherds looking for their forever homes. Stop by to meet them on Q Street between 7th and 8th Streets from 10 am to 1 pm.Some dogs come into your life and steal your heart. Others come along and teach you that a little extra love, patience, and understanding can make all the difference. Our sweet Otti has done both! Otti’s journey with us began when we picked her up from the shelter at an estimated 4 weeks old.
Read more about Otti
She was so tiny she could fit in the palm of your hand, with barely enough ears to see! She looked more like a baby otter than a German Shepherd puppy, and just like that, our little Otti got her name.From those first tiny puppy days, we’ve loved watching her grow, learn, play, and develop into a sweet, silly, affectionate girl with a personality all her own.By about 4 months old, we started to realize Otti was going to be a little different. She developed a fascination with chasing her tail that went well beyond the adorable puppy-spinning phase. And when I say spinning, I mean this girl looked like a load of laundry on the spin cycle! Knowing she might need some extra help, we worked with the wonderful behavioral team at UC Davis to better understand her needs and learn how to give her the happiest, most fulfilling life possible.With their guidance, daily medication, consistency, and positive redirection, we’ve learned ways to help Otti settle and refocus. She still thinks her tail is pretty fascinating, but a yummy treat, a good bone to chew, or a little distraction can help her redirect that energy.And here’s the beautiful thing about Otti: her extra needs are only one small piece of who she is.This girl has SO much love to give!She’s a true German Shepherd in every sense of the word. A loyal, loving, Velcro girl who wants to be wherever her people are. If you’re moving from room to room, you can bet Otti isn’t far behind. She likes to keep her people within eyesight because, heaven forbid, something exciting happens without her! She absolutely loves visitors and welcomes opportunities for attention and affection. She enjoys playing with our pack, chasing after our dogs during fetch, and turning a simple game into a full-blown case of the zoomies!And when the excitement settles? She’s more than happy to curl up next to you for a good snuggle and nap.A few more things that make Otti pretty darn wonderful: Walks nicely on a leash and enjoys exploring with her people. Crate trained and sleeps through the night. Loves her nighttime cuddles and will happily take every extra minute of snuggle time you’re willing to give before heading to bed. Enjoys an occasional car ride and being included in life’s little adventures. Loves playing fetch, romping with other dogs, and spending time with her people. Has a sweet, affectionate personality and a whole lot of enthusiasm for life!Around 7 months old, we noticed something else about our girl. She seemed to have stopped growing. At first, we thought she might just be a petite little Shepherd, but when her weight also stopped increasing, we wanted to make sure nothing more was going on.We requested bloodwork and discovered Otti has a pancreatic disorder that prevents her body from properly absorbing the nutrients from her food. The good news? We had an answer and a way to help her!Otti now receives a digestive enzyme powder mixed into her meals to help her absorb the nutrients she needs. And WOW, what a difference we’ve already seen!In just over a month, she’s gained more than 10 pounds, grown a couple of inches taller, and her coat is becoming beautifully shiny. Watching her little body finally get the nutrients it needs has been such a wonderful part of her journey. Our sweet girl may require
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
13. Timmy
Young · Male · Boxer / Husky / Mixed · 8 mi from Lincoln



Meet Timmy, a wiggly 8-month-old Boxer with a heart of gold and energy to spare! This smart boy already knows sit, stay, down, and shake, especially if deli turkey or peanut butter is involved. Timmy is a social butterfly who loves making new human friends on outdoor adventures, usually while proudly carrying his favorite plush duck. After a day of play, he transforms into a world-class snuggler who will happily crawl into your lap. If you want a loyal, affectionate best friend, Timmy is your guy! Check out more info and apply to adopt Timmy at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_dfddc1cf87ec
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
14. Denver
Young · Male · American Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 8 mi from Lincoln


Meet Denver, the puppy sweetheart who is ready to find his forever home! This charming boy is the definition of a 'good boy,' already boasting impressive potty training skills and a heart of gold. Denver is a true social butterfly who gets along wonderfully with both people and other animals, making him the perfect addition to any family. Whether he's offering gentle snuggles or playing with his furry friends, his warm personality shines through in everything he does. Check out more info and apply to adopt Denver at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_a2803c2e83f94846
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
Adopting a large dog in Lincoln
Large dogs need room to stretch out and plenty of exercise: at least one good walk a day, and a secure yard is a bonus. Check your lease too, as some landlords limit the size or breed of dog.
Start training from day one. A big dog who walks nicely on a leash and doesn't jump up is a pleasure to live with, and many rescues can recommend a local trainer.
Rescues with large dogs near Lincoln
- NorCal German Shepherd Rescue dba ShepHeroesWest Sacramento, CA · 7 large dogs above
- Three Eye Blind Animal RescueRoseville, CA · 7 large dogs above
Questions about adopting large dogs in Lincoln
How many large dogs are up for adoption in Lincoln?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Lincoln, California, have 14 large dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a large dog in Lincoln?
The rescues with the most large dogs near Lincoln right now are NorCal German Shepherd Rescue dba ShepHeroes (West Sacramento, CA) and Three Eye Blind Animal Rescue (Roseville, CA). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.
Can I adopt a large dog if I live in an apartment?
Often, yes. Many big dogs are calm indoors as long as they get enough walks and exercise. Check your lease for size or breed limits, and ask the rescue how active the dog is.
Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a dog may have been adopted since this page was updated.