Yorba Linda, CA

Large Dogs for Adoption in Yorba Linda, CA: 16 Big Dogs Looking for a Home

Large Dogs up for adoption near Yorba Linda, CA

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Yorba Linda have 16 large dogs up for adoption. Here are all 16, 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, Cane Corso Mastiff and Pit Bull Terrier.

1. Argos Adopt Me

Adult · Male · Cane Corso Mastiff / Mixed · 18 mi from Yorba Linda

Meet Argos, a 7-year-old, 85 lb Cane Corso with a heart as big as he is! Rescued from the Riverside shelter just moments before euthanasia, Argos was severely malnourished but has since made a full recovery and is ready for his forever home.This gentle giant is a total couch potato who loves snuggling, relaxing with his people, and going for walks. He's calm, affectionate, walks nicely on leash, is crate trained, and is doing well with potty training. He can be shy initially but warms up quickly.Argos has done well with female dogs and may enjoy a compatible female companion. He has shown little interest in cats and would do best in a calm home without young children.Argos is neutered and urgently needs a forever home or new foster placement. He deserves a loving family and a comfy couch to call his own!Courtesy Post: Argos is not under The Little Red Dog's care.

  • No young kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Argos Adopt Me fromThe Little Red Dog, IncLake Forest, CA · listed Oct 21

2. Polo

Adult · Male · German Shepherd Dog / Mixed · 18 mi from Yorba Linda

Polo is a handsome 4-year-old German Shepherd weighing approximately 75 pounds. This sweet boy is the perfect combination of intelligence, loyalty, and affection, and he's ready to find a family to call his own!One of Polo's favorite things in the world is playing fetch! He's quite the ball-catching superstar and loves showing off his skills. He also enjoys car rides, walks nicely on a leash, and is always happy to spend quality time with his people.Polo is wonderful with other dogs and has been around children of all ages. He's gentle, affectionate, and well-behaved with kids. He's even been around goats and geese without any issues! A home without cats is a must.This smart boy already knows basic commands and is a quick learner.

Read more about Polo

He's neutered, fully vaccinated, healthy, potty trained, crate trained, and leash trained. He's got so much going for him—all he's missing is a forever family to share his love with!Located in Southern California. Transport within the U.S. may be available for the right home, with fees depending on distance.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Polo fromThe Little Red Dog, IncLake Forest, CA · listed Oct 19

3. Diesel

Young · Male · German Shepherd Dog / Mixed · 18 mi from Yorba Linda

Looking for a fun-loving, loyal companion to share life's adventures? Meet Diesel! Diesel is a handsome 1½-year-old German Shepherd with a little Husky charm, weighing approximately 75 pounds. This sweet boy is full of personality, loves attention, and is always ready for his next adventure!Whether it's playing fetch, exploring hiking trails, enjoying long walks, or hopping in the car for a ride, Diesel is happiest when he's spending time with his people.Diesel is intelligent, affectionate, and playful. He gets along great with other dogs and does well with children. He would love an active family who will include him in their daily adventures and give him all the love he deserves! A home without cats is a must.Diesel is neutered, vaccinated, healthy, crate trained, and leash trained.

Read more about Diesel

He's ready to leave his past behind and start his next chapter with a family of his own. Located in Southern California. Transport within the U.S. may be available for the right home, with fees depending on distance.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Diesel fromThe Little Red Dog, IncLake Forest, CA · listed Oct 19

4. Jewel

Adult · Female · Pit Bull Terrier (short coat) · 20 mi from Yorba Linda

Our beautiful Jewel was found as a pregnant stray and was brought to a shelter in San Bernadino where she gave birth to her babies. As you can imagine, that's simply no place to raise a family so CARMA brought Jewel and her brood to safety when the puppies were just a few days old. Jewel was an amazing and sweet mama right from the start. She's great with children and adults but will need to be an only child when it comes to other pets. She is totally potty trained, vaccinated, spayed and healthy. Jewel is super affectionate and smart. She's a big fan of belly rubs and just love in general. If you would like to meet and adopt Jewel, please apply at www.carmoc.org

  • Good with kids
  • Only dog
  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Jewel fromCompassionate Animal Rescue for Medical AidMission Viejo, ca · listed Oct 16

5. Bell

Adult · Female · Great Pyrenees (medium coat) · 6 mi from Yorba Linda

Meet Bell! Your new best friend!
Bell is a beautiful Great Pyrenees girl, about 4 years old, with a heart full of love and a serious appreciation for the great outdoors! She absolutely LOVES people and wants nothing more than to be by your side, sharing life’s adventures and soaking up all the affection you have to give.
Bell is fine with other dogs, but we think she would really shine in a home where she gets to be extra special — where she can be your number one girl and the apple of your eye! ❤️ A home without other dogs might be her dream come true, giving her all the attention and love she deserves.
If you love spending time outside and want a loyal companion who will adore you right back, Bell could be your perfect match.
This sweet girl is ready to be somebody’s whole world. Could that somebody be you?
FOCHP.org for more info.

  • Good with kids
  • House-trained

6. Cinder

Puppy · Female · Weimaraner / Mixed (short coat) · 20 mi from Yorba Linda

CINDER AT A GLANCE

• Approximately 1 year old
• Weimaraner mix
• ❤️ An absolute sweetheart
• Playful & fun-loving
• Loves other dogs
• Would make a wonderful canine companion & playmate
• ✂️ Spayed
• Up-to-date on vaccines
• Microchipped

This sweetheart is ready to leave rescue/foster life behind and find the forever home she’s been waiting for. ❤️

Located in Southern California
Accepting applications now at angelsnpaws.com
Adoption Fee: $300

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Cinder fromAngels n PawsAlta Loma, CA · listed Sep 30

7. Kara

Puppy (1 month 29 days) · Female · German Shepherd Dog / Mixed (short coat) · 21 mi from Yorba Linda

Hi! My name is Kara, and I’m a beautiful little shepherd mix… although exactly what kind of shepherd mix is still a bit of a mystery.
My siblings and I had a pretty rough start. We were found abandoned in a box at a park by a Good Samaritan who took us home and bottle-fed us. He quickly realized that raising a litter of tiny puppies was a bigger job than one person could handle, so he reached out for help. That’s when a foster stepped in and welcomed my sister and me into her home.
Now I’m busy doing what puppies do best: growing, learning, playing, and showing off my personality. I’m sweet, smart, confident, and just the right amount of sassy.

Read more about Kara

Basically, I have that classic shepherd sparkle.
I’m expected to grow into a large girl, likely 70+ pounds, so I’m looking for a family that understands that adorable little shepherd puppies eventually become big, intelligent, active dogs. I’ll need continued training, structure, exercise, enrichment, and a family ready to give my busy brain something to do.
In return, you’ll get a loyal companion with plenty of personality, a whole lot of love to give, and probably a few strong opinions about how things should be done.
If you’re looking for a big, beautiful girl to grow up alongside your family, Kara might just be the one. ❤️
See their adoption page here: http://www.causeforsbpaws.org/animals/browse
Apply to adopt here: http://www.causeforsbpaws.org/forms/form?formid=3251

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Kara fromCause for SB PawsSan Bernardino , Ca · listed Sep 29

8. Osito and Cloud

Adult · Male · Labrador Retriever / Cattle Dog / Mixed · 18 mi from Yorba Linda

Meet Osito & Cloud, two wonderful young dogs who were found by a transport company while traveling through New Mexico. Now they need help finding the loving homes they deserve. Osito — About 2 years old, 62 lbs and believed to be a Lab/Cattle Dog mix. He’s affectionate, attentive, great with dogs and children, and walks beautifully on leash. Osito is not yet neutered.Cloud — About 1½ years old, 72 lbs and believed to be a Great Pyrenees mix. He’s neutered, gentle, affectionate, great on leash and loves being close to his people.These boys are bonded and would love to stay together, but finding each of them a wonderful home is most important. They can be considered separately if the right homes come along.Please share and help us find Osito & Cloud their next chapter!

  • House-trained
  • Adopt together
Adopt Osito and Cloud fromThe Little Red Dog, IncLake Forest, CA · listed Sep 28

9. Freeman

Adult · Male · German Shepherd Dog · 18 mi from Yorba Linda

Freeman is a handsome 2-year-old German Shepherd who was rescued from a heartbreaking situation, living outside on a 3-foot chain in the heat. Thankfully, those days are behind him!Freeman is now thriving in his foster home and discovering what it means to be part of a family. He is sweet, mellow, and eager to learn. He’s doing well with potty training and has started enjoying walks, where he loves sniffing and exploring. His leash skills are still a work in progress, but he’s learning quickly.Freeman is looking for a loving home that will give him the exercise, structure, and continued training he needs to thrive.

  • Only dog
  • House-trained
Adopt Freeman fromThe Little Red Dog, IncLake Forest, CA · listed Sep 13

10. George Foster or Adopt Me

Adult · Male · Cane Corso Mastiff / Mixed · 18 mi from Yorba Linda

George is a handsome Cane Corso mix born in 2023 looking for a new home or foster home! He is not currently in our care but with his owner. George’s owner works long 12–16 hour days, including weekends, which means this sweet boy spends far too much time alone. His owner wants George to have the companionship, attention, and life he deserves.George is a sweet, loving boy who, according to his owner, is good with other dogs. He was adopted as a puppy and is now ready for a fresh start and a new place to call home.Could you be the one to give George the life he deserves?

  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt George Foster or Adopt Me fromThe Little Red Dog, IncLake Forest, CA · listed Aug 28

11. Smokey

Adult · Male · German Shepherd Dog / Mixed · 18 mi from Yorba Linda

Smokey is a smart, friendly, playful 72-pound guy who loves spending time with people and playing fetch. He knows sit and down and is even learning to roll over!Smokey can do well with dogs who match his energy, although he can be dog selective. He needs a cat friendly home. He’ll need plenty of exercise, structure, and a confident leader to help him channel his excitement.Smokey is looking for a fresh start with someone who will give him the guidance, consistency, and love he needs to thrive.

  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Smokey fromThe Little Red Dog, IncLake Forest, CA · listed Aug 25

12. Hercules Foster or Adopt Me

Adult · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed · 18 mi from Yorba Linda

COURTESY POST: Hercules is not in the care of The Little Red Dog. He is with current owners until new placement is found. Handsome Hercules is a 5-year-old Blue Nose Pit Bull, approximately 60–80 lbs., looking for someone special to give him the fresh start he deserves!Hercules is a loving, playful boy who enjoys his walks and spending time with his people. He hasn’t had many opportunities for socialization, so he’s looking for an experienced, adult-only home where he can build confidence, enjoy a consistent routine, and continue learning.Hercules can be unsure around unfamiliar people and will do best with someone patient who will give him time to settle in and feel secure. Compatibility with other animals would need to be evaluated.

  • House-trained
Adopt Hercules Foster or Adopt Me fromThe Little Red Dog, IncLake Forest, CA · listed Aug 25

13. Boris

Adult (3 years) · Male · American Pit Bull Terrier / Shar Pei / Mixed (short coat) · 18 mi from Yorba Linda

Courtesy Post

If happiness had four legs and a wagging tail, it would be Boris.

Boris is the kind of dog who finds joy in everything. He loves people, loves other dogs, and approaches life with an enthusiasm that's impossible not to smile about. Whether he's making new friends, playing with his buddies, or soaking up attention from his humans, Boris is simply happy to be included.

Read more about Boris

Like any fun-loving pup, Boris can get a little rambunctious during playtime. He gets excited, throws his whole heart into having fun, and sometimes forgets just how big and strong he is. With continued guidance and an active home, he'll continue to grow into the wonderful companion he's already becoming.

Right now, Boris receives plenty of love and time outside of his crate in rescue, but we know he'll truly flourish in a home where he can be part of the family's everyday life. He's ready for a place where the crate is only used when his people are away and the rest of his days are spent making memories with the people he loves.

Quick Facts

Friendly with people and other dogs
❤️ Affectionate, social, and eager to be part of the family
Playful, goofy, and full of joyful energy
Would thrive in a home where he can spend lots of time with his people
⭐ Benefits from continued structure and guidance as he matures
Ready to be someone's loyal best friend for life
Located in Southern California

If you're looking for a dog who will make you laugh, keep life fun, and love you with his whole heart, Boris is ready to meet you. If you'd like to meet Boris, please fill out our application here.

❤️ We believe every dog deserves to be loved and safe.

  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Boris fromOur Underdog Rescue SquadLa Verne, CA · listed Aug 9Courtesy listing: Boris's family is rehoming him through this rescue.

14. Ben

Young · Male · Newfoundland Dog (medium coat) · 6 mi from Yorba Linda

Ben – Available for AdoptionBen is a 2‑year‑old Newfoundland and weighs 94 pounds. He’s a gentle giant, sweet, skittish at first, but very loving once he trusts you. Great with dogs, house trained with outdoor access, and needs a big yard.
Apply or learn more at fochp.org.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained

15. Zion

Adult (5 years 2 months) · Male · German Shepherd Dog (medium coat) · 20 mi from Yorba Linda

Zion is an absolute stunner of a dog, he is a 5 year old German Shepherd who turns heads everywhere he goes. He is a great dog that just needs a strong handler, familiar with the GSD breed. After about 3 years living in New Mexico, after being adopted from us in 2023, Zion had to return to the shelter through no fault of his own. Here at the shelter, he has made a lot of friends with our volunteers. They love to play fetch with him up in the yard! Zion is also a big lover of squeaky toys, the bigger the better!! He is so sweet with the people within his circle of friends here. Always rolling over for belly rubs, or leaning into them for booty scratches. This big guy also LOVES car rides!

Read more about Zion

A little bit about Zion from his previous owner:

He is a stunning German Shepard and a big boy weighing in around 100lbs and very strong.

At home with people he trusts he is very chill, playful, friendly, and always happy for attention.

His greatest joy in life is fetch and loves to carry his ball around with him.

Zion has been formally trained with basic commands and behavior and responds to them excellently. He is always eager for learning, activity and engagement.

He is kennel and muzzle trained. He can be slow to trust but once he does there is not a more loyal dog.

Zion can be insecure, so he needs an owner he can look to for reassurance! When he trusts you, he will follow your lead, and follow you anywhere!

Zion does need to be the only pet, in an adult only home.

  • No young kids
  • Only dog
  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Zion fromFriends of the Seal Beach Animal Care CenterSeal Beach, Ca · listed May 26

16. Ozzy

Adult · Male · Shepherd / Mixed (medium coat) · 19 mi from Yorba Linda

Ozzy is a gentle soul who was found lost and alone in the desert, but his luck is about to change. This 7-year-old, 65-pound boy has a heart as big as the open desert sky and is ready to share it with a loving family. Ozzy is good with people and just wants to be part of the pack. He's house-trained and vetted, so you know he's a well-mannered boy who's ready to settle into his new forever home. Ozzy's story is a bit of a mystery, but one thing is certain: he's a resilient, loving dog who deserves all the comfort and happiness a family can offer.
Could you be the one to show Ozzy what it means to be loved and cherished? To meet Ozzy, apply at-
https://muttsinneed.org/apply/adopt

  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Ozzy fromMutts in NeedNewport Beach, CA · listed May 14Courtesy listing: Ozzy's family is rehoming him through this rescue.

Adopting a large dog in Yorba Linda

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 Yorba Linda

Questions about adopting large dogs in Yorba Linda

How many large dogs are up for adoption in Yorba Linda?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Yorba Linda, California, have 16 large dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a large dog in Yorba Linda?

The rescues with the most large dogs near Yorba Linda right now are The Little Red Dog, Inc (Lake Forest, CA), Friends of Orange County's Homeless Pets (Menifee, CA) and Compassionate Animal Rescue for Medical Aid (Mission Viejo, 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.