Large Dogs for Adoption in Merced, CA: 23 Big Dogs Looking for a Home

Rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Merced have 23 large dogs up for adoption. Here are all 23, 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 Labrador Retriever, Siberian Husky and German Shepherd.

Not in Merced? Find dogs near your zip code.

1. Francine

Young · Female · Labrador Retriever / Mixed (medium coat) · 54 mi from Merced

Francine, a young female Labrador Retriever dog up for adoption

FRANCINE – White Female Mix, 11 Months, 105 lbs.
Have you been waiting for a SPECIAL dog? Meet the sweetest girl EVER!
Francine is an 11-month-old, 105-pound Pyrenees, Hound and Golden Retriever mix! How do we know? Well, we were really curious (mainly because of the length of her ears), so we did it! And if we do it, we're going to tell you! Besides, we're pretty sure you see what we saw. There's no Labrador in there!
How, what, why, when and where? Here you go!
Francine was surrendered to LRRF, and based on the picture we were sent, we kinda figured! But we're only human, and if you've followed us for any length of time, you know depending on the situation the dog is in, we just can't help ourselves!

2. Shaeffer

Adult · Male · German Shepherd Dog · 34 mi from Merced

Shaeffer, an adult male German Shepherd dog up for adoption

Meet ShaefferAdoption fee on this dog is $300.Shaeffer is a 3 yo Black and Tan male with an impressive stature. He is currently underweight at 75 lbs, but he is making good progress on rebuilding strength and stamina. Although the story of his youth is unknown, he has puppy-curiosity and is responding remarkably well to human partnership.While he was in the loud shelter environment, Shaeffer displayed constant high-energy with rough play behaviors. Once he adapted to the comforts of a quiet indoor life, however, he is showing quite the opposite. He enjoys being with his human in the home where lounging on his extra-large dog bed has become his favorite pass time.

3. Coco Chanel

Adult · Female · Labrador Retriever (short coat) · 54 mi from Merced

Coco Chanel, an adult female Labrador Retriever dog up for adoption

Coco Chanel, Chocolate Female, 3 years, 80 lbs.
Meet Coco Chanel, a timeless beauty that will always be in style
Are you looking for a classic, elegant canine to complete your aesthetic? Look no further than Coco Chanel! At 3 years old, this gorgeous chocolate labrador is the definition of chic high fashion. She doesn't need designer accessories or a runway to turn heads. Coco comes dressed in her very own luxurious chocolate coat, paired with the signature labrador charm that never goes out of fashion.
Coco is a classic labrador through and through. She loves her toys, enjoys the finer things in life, like affection, attention, and being close to her favorite people. For Coco, there is nothing more luxurious than a good cuddle session. She's sweet, affectionate, and has plenty of love to give. She is the little black dress of dogs as she goes well with everything. Coco has been lovely with children, big dogs, small dogs, cats, and even a pig! Truly a staple for any household wanting to be in vogue.
But Coco isn't looking for a fancy penthouse or a life of luxury. She's looking for the most essential accessory: her person. Someone to spoil her with toys, take her places, and remind her every day that she's cherished. She's ready to trade in the runway and become someone's one and only designer original.
After all, darling, trends come and go, but a classic Labrador is forever. Apply today to claim your one-of-a-kind Coco Chanel at www.labrescuefresno.org!

4. Big Mack

Senior · Male · Labrador Retriever (short coat) · 54 mi from Merced

Big Mack, a senior male Labrador Retriever dog up for adoption

Big Mack – Black English Male, Approx. 10 Years Old, 80 lbs.
Big Mack is the epitome of the English Labrador Retriever, and according to his foster, the epitome of perfection!
This big, lovable boy gets along with everyone and everything. He loves his food, loves to snooze, loves his walkies, and most of all, loves being near his people. Honestly, what more could a Lab ask for?
His foster says she wishes she could have known him in his younger days, which tells you just how special this boy is.
Mack is one of the 11 neglected dogs Labrador Retriever Rescue of Fresno took in from a hoarding situation involving approximately 50 dogs. The lack of care was immediately evident, but Mack has come a long way since arriving in rescue. Today, he is neutered, vaccinated, heartworm tested, and microchipped. His horribly infected ears have healed. He also had several badly damaged teeth removed, and what a difference that made! Now he can eat and chew like a champ. Did someone say FOOD? Yep, Mack is a Lab through and through!
Mack is house-trained and crate-trained, although a crate isn't necessary. He enjoys the freedom to move about the house, whether it's daytime or bedtime. He does have some arthritis, common in older dogs, and receives pain management to help keep him comfortable.
Those wild puppy days are long behind him, and Mack is perfectly content with the simple pleasures in life. His favorite things, in no particular order, are:

5. Cameo

Senior · Female · Labrador Retriever (short coat) · 54 mi from Merced

Cameo, a senior female Labrador Retriever dog up for adoption

Cameo – Yellow English Female, 10ish years, 62 lbs.
Meet Cameo – A Sweet Senior Lady Looking for Her Forever Home
Cameo is one of the 11 dogs Labrador Retriever Rescue of Fresno welcomed from a difficult hoarding situation. She has had her veterinary checkup and received care for an ear infection and dry eyes. She is spayed, microchipped, and vaccinated, and she’s ready to begin a new chapter surrounded by love and comfort.
Cameo is about as easy going as they come! On a scale of 1 to 10 for craziness, she’s a 2. Her favorite activities include sleeping, enjoying a good back rub in the grass, and soaking up a little attention. She’s potty trained and has settled nicely into her foster home’s routine, especially when it comes to mealtime!
Her foster mom was pleasantly surprised when Cameo figured out how to use the potty bells to let her know she needed to go outside. What a smart girl!
Cameo also enjoys getting attention from people at the Clovis Farmers Market and calmly ignores the other dogs walking by. She’s a laid-back companion who doesn’t ask for much beyond a comfortable place to rest, some gentle affection, and someone to love.
After everything she has been through, Cameo deserves to spend her golden years knowing what it means to be cherished. If you have a soft spot for a sweet senior lady, Cameo might just be your perfect match.
Apply to adopt Cameo at labrescuefresno.org.
Her foster mom would love to tell you more about this special girl!

6. Harley

Adult · Male · Labrador Retriever / Yellow Labrador Retriever / Mixed (short coat) · 54 mi from Merced

Harley, an adult male Labrador Retriever dog up for adoption

Harley – Yellow Male X, 3.5 Years Old, 102 lbs.
HARLEY: 102 POUNDS OF LOVE IN A YELLOW LAB SUIT!
Meet Harley, an approximately 3½-year-old Yellow Lab mix who proves that the biggest packages really can hold the biggest hearts!
At a whopping 102 pounds, Harley is less of a lap dog and more of a lap dog with a weight-limit warning!
Harley came to us from a local animal shelter, so his past is a bit of a mystery. But one thing is becoming crystal clear: this boy is all about LOVE!
His foster family describes him as a big, gentle sweetheart who simply wants to be your best friend. He walks beautifully on a leash, is crate trained, and enjoys people of all ages, including the little ones. He has been around children as young as one year old and takes it all in stride. Wildlife doesn't seem to bother him, and he gets along with other dogs, too. Cats are an unknown.
Here's another little mystery about Harley: so far, we haven't heard him bark! Maybe he's saving his voice for something really important, like announcing that dinner is ready.
Harley is neutered, microchipped, well-mannered, and eager to please. He doesn't need a fancy lifestyle or a calendar full of adventures. He just wants a family to love, a comfy place to relax, and a home where he belongs.
He could be a wonderful companion for an active individual or a family ready to welcome a whole lot of dog into their lives. With a big boy like Harley, you'll need a little extra room to stretch out, some couch space to share, and absolutely no expectation of maintaining a personal bubble!
Could Harley be your missing piece?
This oversized sweetheart has 102 pounds of love to give and is ready to find the people who will cherish him for the wonderful dog he is.
Adopt Harley. Because sometimes the biggest dogs have the gentlest hearts.
Interested in making Harley part of your family? Please apply to adopt through Labrador Retriever Rescue of Fresno! www.labrescuefresno.org

7. Splash

Puppy (3 months 21 days) · Female · Chow Chow / Mixed (short coat) · 93 mi from Merced

Splash, a female Chow Chow puppy up for adoption

MEET SPLASH — YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE PARTNER!

Looking for a smart, adventurous pup who wants to be your partner in crime? Meet Splash! This girl is more than just cute—she’s driven, eager to learn, and happiest when she has a job to do!

SMART GIRL, READY TO LEARN! Splash LOVES training, especially when her kibble is involved! She already knows sit, down, come, and look. She has a great foundation in training, walks well on leash, and shows impressive focus and engagement. She’s the kind of pup who wants to work with her person!

8. Saylor

Senior · Female · Labrador Retriever (short coat) · 54 mi from Merced

Saylor, a senior female Labrador Retriever dog up for adoption

Saylor – Black Female, 9 years young, 72 lbs.
MEET SAYLOR! After nine years, she's finally learning how to be a puppy!
Saylor came to us from a hoarding case involving 50 dogs. For nine years, she lived without many of the simple pleasures every dog deserves. She had never even known what a toy was.
Now, she's discovering just how much fun life can be!
This beautiful English Labrador proudly carries her toys around like a puppy, and watching her discover these simple joys will melt your heart.
A little about our sweet Saylor:

9. Perry

Adult (5 years 11 months) · Male · Siberian Husky (long coat) · 93 mi from Merced

Perry, an adult male Siberian Husky dog up for adoption

Meet Perry — The Blue-Eyed Gentleman Who Will Steal Your Heart!

Looking for a loyal companion who would rather cuddle beside you than run a marathon? Meet Perry!

For a husky, Perry is refreshingly laid-back. Sure, he enjoys playtime, chew toys, and treats, but his favorite place to be is right next to his person, soaking up all the pets, belly rubs, and affection he can get. And when he looks at you with those beautiful blue eyes, you'll swear he's looking straight into your soul.

Here's what makes Perry so special:

A natural cuddler: Perry loves being close to his people. Give him affection, and he'll happily return it tenfold.

10. Max

Adult (3 years 1 month) · Male · Alaskan Malamute (short coat) · 94 mi from Merced

Max, an adult male Alaskan Malamute dog up for adoption

Max is a delightful boy whose owner sadly passed away which left Max was living alone in the backyard and being fed every two days by neighbors for several weeks. He is friendly and affectionate, gentle, but busy, crowded places can feel a little overwhelming for him. Max is a bit shy at first and may not have had many opportunities to explore the world, so he is still building his confidence.

With love, patience, and gentle guidance, Max is sure to blossom into an exceptional companion. He gets along well with other dogs his size and is learning how to be part of a pack. Every day he shows a little more of his sweet personality.

11. Arlee

Adult (2 years) · Female · German Shepherd Dog / Mixed (medium coat) · 93 mi from Merced

Arlee, an adult female German Shepherd dog up for adoption

Meet Arlee!

Look how she started, and look how far she’s come! Arlee is living proof that a rough beginning doesn’t define your future. When a skin infection left people counting her out, this resilient girl fought her way back and came out stronger than ever. Now, she’s ready for her next chapter: finding a forever family of her own.

At 2 years old, Arlee is the perfect mix of smart, playful, funny, and loving, with a protective side that makes her extra special. She may take a little time to warm up to new people, but once you earn her trust, you’ll have a loyal companion who wants to please you and be by your side.

12. Gabby

Adult · Female · Labrador Retriever (short coat) · 54 mi from Merced

Gabby, an adult female Labrador Retriever dog up for adoption

Gabby – Black Female Purebred Labrador, 6 Years, 67 lbs
Meet Gabby!
If you’re looking for an all-Lab Lab, look no further! Gabby is everything we love about the breed wrapped up in one beautiful, gentle girl. She has the sweetest disposition and simply wants to be with her people.
Gabby is a total foodie and firmly believes that no meal should ever be missed! She loves people of all ages and is wonderfully social with dogs, cats, and even goats. She is gentle, affectionate, and eager to please. Her favorite place is right beside you, soaking up belly rubs, cuddles, and plenty of reassurance that she is, indeed, a very good girl.
And Gabby has some serious Lab fun in her, too! She loves squeaky toys, playtime, fetch, walks, and—oh my goodness—SWIMMING! This girl absolutely loves the water. She has a wonderful recall and is terrific on leash, but she is also a pleasure off leash and will happily walk right alongside you in a natural heel.
Gabby is equally happy enjoying the simple things in life. Most of the time, she is a calm, quiet girl who is perfectly content to relax near her people. But when the other dogs are ready to play, Gabby is more than happy to join in! She also loves going for a stroll or hopping in the car for an adventure. She is excellent in the car and gets in and out like a pro.
Gabby is very much a people dog. She wants to be close to her humans and doesn’t like being separated from them. If you leave her sight, she may bark to let you know that she has noticed your absence and would very much prefer that you come back! ❤️ Because of this, Gabby will need a home where someone is home most of the time. She is looking for people who want a devoted companion who will happily spend her days simply being by their side.
❤️ A note about Gabby's medical care
Gabby has been diagnosed with MG (myasthenia gravis), but we are very happy with how she is doing. She currently presents with no signs of MG and is doing wonderfully on her medication. She receives medication three times a day, and we have begun a carefully monitored diminishing dose. Her most recent bloodwork and titers were all normal.
Her medical needs are something her future family will need to continue managing, but Gabby herself doesn't seem to have gotten the memo that she's supposed to be anything other than a happy, loving Labrador! She is enjoying life, loves her people, loves her dog friends, and is ready for a family who will give her the same devotion she gives them.
Gabby is the kind of Lab who makes you smile just by being in the room. She doesn't need a complicated life—she wants her people, a comfy place to relax, some good food, a belly rub, a walk, a game of fetch, and maybe a swim whenever possible.
If you have room in your heart and home for a sweet, gentle, devoted, fun-loving six-year-old Lab, Gabby would love to meet you. Apply for Gabby at www.labrescuefresno.org

13. Blossom

Young (4 months 28 days) · Female · Unknown breed (short coat) · 93 mi from Merced

Blossom, a young female dog up for adoption

Meet Blossom!

Part puppy, part mystery, 100% adorable! We’re not exactly sure what breeds make up Blossom, but she’s keeping that secret to herself! Her DNA may be a mystery, but her personality is definitely not.

Blossom is a happy, playful, spunky puppy who is eager to learn and always ready for her next adventure. She gets along well with dogs of all sizes, does great with cats, walks well on a leash, and even enjoys car rides. Whether it’s playtime, an outing, or simply hanging out with her people, Blossom is ready to have a good time!

14. Queen Maeve

Adult (8 years) · Female · Siberian Husky (short coat) · 94 mi from Merced

Queen Maeve, an adult female Siberian Husky dog up for adoption

Meet Queen Maeve, Her Royal Highness

Queen Maeve is a 90-ish-pound, long-legged, dainty-pawed queen who has graciously decided that humans may serve her—provided they understand proper royal etiquette.

She is affectionate, goofy, playful, curious, and absolutely convinced that life should include plenty of attention, adventures, and perhaps the occasional cheese tax. When she wants affection, she has no problem pressing her royal head into you to make her wishes known. She loves car rides, exploring, and being brushed like the royalty she believes herself to be.

15. Freddie Fazbear

Adult (4 years 1 month) · Male · Alaskan Malamute (short coat) · 94 mi from Merced

Freddie Fazbear, an adult male Alaskan Malamute dog up for adoption

Freddie Fazbear is a happy, loving, and affectionate dog with a heart as big as he is. This gentle giant is kind and respectful with both people and other dogs, making friends wherever he goes. While he certainly enjoys attention, he has a wonderfully easygoing nature and excellent manners.

Freddie loves long outdoor walks and is a pleasure on leash, rarely pulling as he explores the world by your side. He also enjoys playing with other dogs and would be thrilled to have canine friends to romp around with.

16. Saben

Young · Male · German Shepherd Dog / Affenpinscher / Mixed · 34 mi from Merced

Saben, a young male German Shepherd dog up for adoption

ntroducing Saben, a young male German Shepherd who came from a local shelter. He is estimated to be about a year old, bursting with energy and a playful spirit! He’s always ready for an adventure, whether it’s chasing toys in the yard or exploring new sights and sounds. This lively guy is nicely balanced – while he is engaging and fun, he also has an OFF switch and is often found napping under his foster mom’s feet while she works. Thanks to his clever use of the dog door, he comes and goes as he pleases, and at the end of the day, he settles comfortably in his crate for a good night’s sleep (although he does not appreciate being confined during the daytime hours).

17. Sully

Adult · Male · Mastiff / Cane Corso Mastiff · 81 mi from Merced

Sully, an adult male Mastiff dog up for adoption

Meet Sully! Looking for a giant lap dog, BFF, and big drooly shadow who wants to go everywhere with you? Sully might be your guy.Sully is a 6 ish year old Mastiff, 135lbs ish, easy going and sweet as pie. He has one good eye, the “good eye” had cherry eye repair on it but it may pop out again, otherwise he is doing great. Personality: Sully is a gem! He’s the definition of a social butterfly- incredibly friendly and affectionate, just loves being right by his person’s side.Things he loves: Car rides, little adventures, walks, just being part of your everyday life. He is very much a “where are we going?” kind of dog.Potty trainedCrate trainedSully will go into a crate, but it definitely isn’t his favorite place to be.

18. Bob

Adult (5 years) · Male · Unknown breed (medium coat) · 94 mi from Merced

Watch Bob's video

Meet Bob — Big, Beautiful, and Even Better! ❤️

Meet
Bob
, an impressive
101 pounds of love, fun, and companionship
. This magnificent boy is wrapped in the most gorgeous, fluffy coat, and those adorable
“raccoon eyes”
make him even more charming and irresistible. He's also completely vetted and ready for action.

Bob absolutely loves being with people. He has attended adoption fairs and other Norsled events and has been a
model citizen
at every spot. He’s the kind of dog who makes friends wherever he goes—and since arriving at Norsled, he has made
a LOT of them
.

19. Clifford

Adult · Male · Labrador Retriever (short coat) · 54 mi from Merced

Clifford, an adult male Labrador Retriever dog up for adoption

Clifford – Yellow Male, 3 years old, 95 pounds
Clifford is a BIG yellow boy with an even bigger heart.
This handsome guy first stumbled onto someone’s property in Visalia as a stray. No one came looking for him, (surprise, surprise) and he eventually made his way to LRRF. It quickly became apparent that something was very wrong with his right eye—it was bulging, and we knew he needed immediate medical attention.
A specialist confirmed that Clifford’s eye needed to be removed, and he underwent surgery. Thankfully, he seems to be seeing better and is clearly feeling much more comfortable now that the painful eye is gone.
Unfortunately, Clifford has a hereditary eye disease that means there is a possibility he could eventually lose vision in his remaining eye. We know that may sound scary, but Clifford doesn't know he's supposed to feel sorry for himself. He is simply happy to be loved, included and part of a family.
And what a sweetheart he is. ❤️
Clifford is playful, affectionate and loving. He gets along wonderfully with people and other dogs, and even ignored the cats in the home of the Good Samaritan who found him. He's great with children, too. He's a little clumsy at times, but honestly, that's just part of his charm.
He enjoys going for walks and would benefit from having a confident, friendly helper dog in his forever home as he continues to adjust to his vision changes. He is crate trained and house trained.
What Clifford needs most is someone who will see Clifford—not his eye.
Someone who will look past the medical issue and recognize the wonderful dog standing right in front of them. A dog who wants to love you, your family, your dogs, your cats and simply be part of your life.
We truly believe Clifford will make an exceptional companion for the right family.
He doesn't need someone to feel sorry for him.
He needs someone willing to love him. And Clifford has plenty of love to give right back.
Could you be the person who sees Clifford for the amazing boy he is? Apply for Clifford www.labrescuefresno.org

20. Mask

Adult (2 years) · Female · Siberian Husky / Mixed (medium coat) · 93 mi from Merced

Mask, an adult female Siberian Husky dog up for adoption

Meet Mask — Your Next Adventure Buddy!

Looking for a beautiful, loyal companion who’s happiest by your side? Mask may be your girl!

This sweet female Husky is potty trained, crate trained, leash trained, and wonderfully low-maintenance. She loves being outdoors, especially when there’s a toy ball involved! When playtime is over, Mask is perfectly content to curl up and relax with her person.

Why you’ll love Mask:

21. Blaze

Adult (2 years 3 months) · Male · Siberian Husky (short coat) · 94 mi from Merced

Blaze, an adult male Siberian Husky dog up for adoption

Blaze is a 2 yr old boy that has already survived more than most dogs ever will. After an accident, one of his rear legs had to be amputated. He adjusted immediately and lives life with the same joy, confidence, and gentle spirit as any other dog.

He's also big, weighing 60 lbs. Blaze is a tall, handsome husky with stunning blue eyes and the sweetest old soul. He’s calm, affectionate - and has a kind, quiet presence.

✔️Crate trained
✔️ Potty trained
✔️ Dog-friendly
✔️ Fully healed

✔️ All vetted

Blaze doesn’t need someone to feel sorry for him. He just needs someone to see him for who he is: an incredible dog who happens to have three legs.

Good with dogs
No cats
House-trained

Adopt Blaze fromNorthern California Sled Dog RescueWalnut Creek, CA · listed Jul 8

Call (800) 471-5822 Website Facebook

22. Ricky

Adult (1 year 7 months) · Male · Siberian Husky (short coat) · 94 mi from Merced

Ricky, an adult male Siberian Husky dog up for adoption

Ricky -This affectionate, intelligent young husky is the full package: energetic, eager to learn, and overflowing with potential. He bonds quickly with calm, confident handlers and thrives in a home that offers routine, consistency, and clear expectations. He’s not a “difficult” dog—he’s a high‑arousal adolescent still mastering impulse control, and he wants to succeed. In just a few days, he’s already shown impressive improvement.

23. Nia

Young · Female · German Shepherd Dog · 34 mi from Merced

Nia, a young female German Shepherd dog up for adoption

Nia is a 6 month old all black female. Affectionate, playful, and bit timid with new encounters. She’s slowly learning the world with the help of her big foster brother, Seamus. Nia is looking for a home that will include her in their daily routines. Another male confident dog will help her thrive. She is very cute and currently. under 50 lbs, so we don't expect her to be very large as an adult dog. Nia is a 6 month old all black female. Affectionate, playful, and bit timid with new encounters. She’s slowly learning the world with the help of her big foster brother, Seamus. Nia is looking for a home that will include her in their daily routines.

Adopting a large dog in Merced

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 Merced

Labrador Retriever Rescue of FresnoClovis, CA · 8 large dogs above
Northern California Sled Dog RescueWalnut Creek, CA · 6 large dogs above
PAW Estate Rescue and Shelter IncVisalia, CA · 5 large dogs above
Greater California German Shepherd RescueModesto, CA · 3 large dogs above
K9 Paw Print RescueOakley, Ca · 1 large dog above

Questions about adopting large dogs in Merced

How many large dogs are up for adoption in Merced?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Merced, California, have 23 large dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a large dog in Merced?

The rescues with the most large dogs near Merced right now are Labrador Retriever Rescue of Fresno (Clovis, CA), Northern California Sled Dog Rescue (Walnut Creek, CA) and PAW Estate Rescue and Shelter Inc (Visalia, 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.