Large Dogs for Adoption in Bradenton, FL: 11 Big Dogs Looking for a Home
Rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Bradenton have 11 large dogs up for adoption. Here are all 11, 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, Pit Bull Terrier and Boxer.
- All dogs 306
- Puppies 21
- Adult Dogs 232
- Senior Dogs 35
- Kid-Friendly Dogs 65
- Cat-Friendly Dogs 14
- Small Dogs 39
Not in Bradenton? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Tank
Tank would like to introduce himself. He even knows how to shake hands.
This handsome boy has been showing us his calm, polite side. He knows sit and shake, loves treats, and accepts them gently. Spending a little time together—and sharing a few biscuits—is a lovely way to get acquainted!
Tank has also responded favorably to nearby dogs during leash walks and was traveling with another dog when found. If you have a canine companion, ask shelter staff about an introduction.
Read more about Tank
At approximately 6 months–2 years old and 66 pounds, Tank is a youngster with some nice manners already in place. We’d love to see him continuing to learn with a family who appreciates his gentle approach.
Come meet Tank and offer him your hand. A handshake could be the start of a wonderful friendship.
Tank’s listed adoption availability date is October 31, if he is not reclaimed by his owner. Call 352-746-8400 to ask about his adoption wait list.
All adoptable dogs are neutered, microchipped, heartworm tested, and vaccinated.
Citrus County Animal Services
4030 S. Airport Rd., Inverness, FL
Tuesday–Saturday, 10am–5pm (closed 1–2pm)
Extended hours Thursday until 7pm
Adoption fees are WAIVED FOR THE PUMPKINS, PAWS & FOREVER HOMES PROMOTION!
Citrus County Animal Services
4030 S. Airport Rd., Inverness, FL
Tuesday–Saturday, 10am–5pm (closed 1–2pm)
Extended hours Thursday until 7pm
Tank • ID# 58873327
- Good with dogs
2. Duke Butler
DUKE BUTLER: A GENTLEMAN WITH A HEART FULL OF LOVE! Meet Duke Butler, a handsome 41-pound bundle of sweetness who believes the best place to be is right beside his favorite person! Duke is a friendly, affectionate boy who loves attention and is always happy to stick around for extra pets, cuddles, and a little one-on-one time. He has a wonderful way of making you feel special, and with his sweet personality and loving nature, he's easy to enjoy!This boy has some pretty great manners, too! Duke knows “sit” and “stay,” comes when called, takes treats gently, and walks nicely on a leash. He also does well in a crate, making him a nice companion to have around the house.
Read more about Duke Butler
He's good with children, too! Estimated to be 2–6 years old, Duke is past the puppy stage but still has plenty of fun and companionship to share. He'd love a family who appreciates a dog who enjoys being close, soaking up affection, and simply spending time together. A few things to know about Duke:Male, approximately 41 lbs.Estimated age: 2–6 yearsSweet, friendly, cuddly, and people-lovingKnows sit and stayWalks nicely on leash and does well in a crateGood with children*NO CATS, please!Citrus County Animal Services4030 S. Airport Rd., Inverness, FL
- Good with kids
- No cats
3. Joanie
Urgent
Could anyone use a Halloween buddy to watch spooky movies with?
Joanie would LOVE to be your Halloween movie buddy! ❤️ Imagine this sweet 85-lb girl curled up next to you while you watch scary movies, handing out treats, and enjoying Halloween together!
She’s
2 years old, spayed, microchipped, and up to date on vaccines and preventatives.
She’s affectionate, loving, housebroken, and absolutely loves people.
But Joanie’s time is running out — she is scheduled to be euthanized Tuesday.
Could YOU be the person who gives Joanie her happily-ever-after?
Please foster or adopt and SAVE HER LIFE! ❤️
JOANIE
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
4. Lewis
MEET LEWIS — A GENTLE GUY LOOKING FOR A GOOD PLACE TO LAND
Lewis is a young dog with a lot of growing up still ahead of him. And while he may not be the type of dog who demands the spotlight, there’s something especially endearing about this handsome boy.
Lewis is friendly and gentle, and he seems to appreciate a calm, kind approach. He has a sweet expression and those wonderfully floppy ears that give him plenty of personality without him having to say a word.
Read more about Lewis
Lewis is also a bit of a homebody! He’s okay with shorter car rides, but longer trips and extended time in the car aren’t really his idea of a good time. He’d much rather enjoy the comforts of home than spend hours on the road. If your idea of a good life involves a comfortable home, familiar routines, and enjoying the simple pleasures together, Lewis might be just your kind of guy.
At his age, Lewis has plenty of time to discover all the good things that life with the right person can offer—comfortable places to rest, regular walks, affection, patience, and the simple security of knowing he has someone he can count on.
He doesn't need to be the most outgoing dog in the room. He just needs someone willing to let him settle in, get comfortable, and show them who he is at his own pace.
Lewis is 1 1/2 yrs. old, weighs 71 lbs., and is neutered, microchipped, heartworm tested and vaccinated.
Citrus County Animal Services
4030 S. Airport Rd.
Inverness, FL
If you're looking for a young dog with a gentle nature and a sweet, understated personality, Lewis is waiting to meet you. ID#61319073
PUMPKINS, PAWS & FOREVER HOMES!
ADOPTION FEES ARE WAIVED! Fall is the perfect time to add a little more love to your family!
5. Max
Courtesy Post for Owner. Meet Max: The Low-Maintenance GSD You’ve Been Waiting For!
If you love the German Shepherd look but aren’t looking for a high-strung working dog, Max is your guy. At 4-5 years old, Max has officially mastered the art of "chilling."
Personality: Sweet, loving, and a professional snuggler.
Behavior: Non-destructive and trustworthy at home.
The Bonus: He’s a "velcro dog" who stays right by your side.
Max should be an only pet. He was a blank slate, has had some training, and is ready for a family. If you want a loyal companion who is as easygoing as he is handsome, Max is ready to meet you!
Read more about Max
If interested in this dog, please email Lenore, darkrain1234@gmail.com for an application.
Courtesy Post for Owner. Meet Max: The Low-Maintenance GSD You’ve Been Waiting For! If you love the German Shepherd look but aren’t looking for a high-strung working dog, Max is your guy. At 4-5 years old, Max has officially mastered the art of "chilling." Personality: Sweet, loving, and a professional snuggler. Behavior: Non-destructive and trustworthy at home. The Bonus: He’s a "velcro dog" who stays right by your side. Max should be an only pet. Max was a blank slate, has had some training, and ready for a family. If you want a loyal companion who is as easygoing as he is handsome, Max is ready to meet you! If interested in this dog, please email Lenore, darkrain1234@gmail.com for an application.
- No cats
- House-trained
6. Jamboree
JAMBOREE — BIG, BEAUTIFUL & READY TO PLAY! Jamboree is one of those dogs who is going to make you look twice. At 65 pounds, with his gorgeous cream-and-white coat, expressive eyes and those fabulous ears, he is one handsome guy!But Jamboree isn't just a pretty face. He's a social, playful, high-energy dog who recently participated in a play session with other dogs and had a great time. His play style can be enthusiastic and physical, and when he's really having fun he can get moving at full speed! He greeted his playmates with plenty of excitement, but remained social and non-aggressive throughout the session.With people, Jamboree is attentive and interested in what you're doing.
Read more about Jamboree
Jamboree would be a great dog to meet if you're looking for an active companion and enjoy a dog with some size and personality. He isn't looking to spend life on the sidelines — this guy is ready to get out and do things!* Estimated 2–6 years old* Social and playful with other dogs* High energy and athletic* Attentive with his handler* Neutered, microchipped, heartworm tested and vaccinatedCome spend some time with this beautiful boy and see if Jamboree might be your kind of dog. Come meet him at Citrus County Animal Services, 4030 S. Airport Rd., Inverness, FL. ID#61644841
- Good with dogs
7. Jack
Meet Jack, a sweet 11-year-young gentleman with the biggest heart.
Jack is truly an oldie but a goodie, but don’t let his age fool you—he’s still got plenty of pep in his step! He enjoys the simple things in life, whether that’s soaking up the sunshine during a cozy nap or heading out on a new adventure.
Jack is quiet, easygoing, and non-reactive. He loves people watching from the porch and taking in everything happening around him. And when his playful side comes out, it’s absolutely adorable! You’ll find him rolling around in the grass, running at the start of his walks, or even chasing waves at the beach.
Jack is so easy to be around, and all he really wants is someone to share his golden years with. If you’re looking for a loving, laid-back companion with just the right amount of playful spirit, Jack might be your perfect match.
Come on! Submit an application and come meet this senior sweetie today!
https://animalrefugecenter.com/adoption-application
Read more about Jack
My ideal home:
I just need a loving family to cuddle up with
I'm good with:
Some Other Dogs
Young Children
Older Children
Men
Women
Date of birth Oct 2015
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
8. Dallas
Dallas
Meet Dallas—a 1½-year-old Golden Retriever who is learning that the world can be a safe and wonderful place.
Dallas was rescued by a Good Samaritan after surviving on his own for months. When he was found, his skin was in terrible condition, but with love and care, his fur is beginning to grow back and he is looking more handsome every day.
Read more about Dallas
Dallas can be a little fearful of new people, new things, and unfamiliar situations. On walks, new experiences can scare him enough that he wants to turn around and head back home. But once he realizes he is safe, his sweet personality shines through. He is incredibly loving, eager to please, and very treat-motivated. Give him a few treats and some patience, and he quickly learns that people can be kind.
We like to say Dallas is a little like the Cowardly Lion—he has a huge heart, but he needs a patient family to help him find his courage.
Dallas is:
Potty trained
Loving and affectionate
Eager to please and quick to learn
A professional furniture lounger
A big fan of belly rubs
A talented counter surfer—so keep those snacks out of reach!
In need of a secure fenced yard
Dallas has met with our trainer, who has given his foster family helpful tips and guidance for building his confidence and helping him work through his fears.
He has not yet been tested with dogs or cats. Since unfamiliar things on walks currently make him nervous, we want to give him time to build confidence before introducing him to other animals.
Dallas is heartworm positive, so he cannot be neutered until he completes his heartworm treatment. The rescue will cover all medical expenses related to his heartworm treatment and neuter.
Because Dallas is a large, strong boy and we don't have a history of him living with children, we are looking for an adult-only home where he can continue gaining confidence at his own pace.
Dallas doesn't need someone to expect him to be fearless overnight. He needs someone willing to show him, one little step at a time, that the world isn't so scary after all
Give this sweet boy some patience, a few treats, a safe yard, and lots of love—and you just might watch his inner lion emerge. Dallas is ready to find the person who will help him discover just how wonderful life can be.
- House-trained
9. Leia
This beautiful girl came to ARC from LaBelle Animal Control with her best friend, Red, and she’s been winning hearts ever since. Blue has a fun-loving personality and an endless supply of happy tail wags. She loves to play, enjoys spending time with people, and is always ready to make a new friend.
With her sweet nature and cheerful spirit, Blue brings joy wherever she goes. Whether it’s a walk, a game of fetch, or simply soaking up affection, she’s happiest when she’s with her favorite humans.
Blue is ready to find a family to call her own and fill their home with love, laughter, and plenty of wiggly excitement.
Read more about Leia
Submit an application and schedule an appointment to meet this special girl—you just might find your new best friend!
https://animalrefugecenter.com/adoption-application
My ideal home:I need a family to give me lots of lovI'm good with:Some Other Dogs Cats Young Children Older Children Men Women
Date of birth Nov 2025
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
10. Max
Courtesy Post for Owner.
Meet Max: The Low-Maintenance GSD You’ve Been Waiting For!
If you love the German Shepherd look but aren’t looking for a high-strung working dog, Max is your guy. At 4-5 years old, Max has officially mastered the art of "chilling."
Personality: Sweet, loving, and a professional snuggler.
Behavior: Non-destructive and trustworthy at home.
The Bonus: He’s a "velcro dog" who stays right by your side.
Max should be an only pet.
Max was a blank slate, has had some training, and ready for a family. If you want a loyal companion who is as easygoing as he is handsome, Max is ready to meet you!
Read more about Max
If interested in this dog, please email Lenore, darkrain1234@gmail.com for an application.
- Good with kids
- Only dog
- No cats
- House-trained
11. Dixie
We take the dogs that are adopted down...so if a dog is on the website they are available.
Obedience training and fully fenced in yard is required for all our pups. Completion certificate for training needs to be emailed once complete. When applying pictures/videos of your fully enclosed yard is needed.
Please only send inquiries to the email in this bio all others will not be answered. Please read the bio before sending questions - we answer all we know about the dog here. If the question is not answered in the bio please send emails to info@HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
Meet Dixie
Read more about Dixie
Dixie is the gentlest soul who didn't fight back during a senseless attack. Now, she needs our community to step up so she doesn't lose her leg.
The Medical Reality
The trauma Dixie endured is severe:
The Damage: Her wrist is "crushed to pieces" with extensive ligament damage. She is missing bone in her foot, and at least two toes will likely need to be removed.
The Bandaging Costs: To fight infection and promote healing, Dixie requires daily professional bandage changes ranging from $470 to $600 per visit.
The Surgical Goal: We are pushing for a specialized surgery next week. Options include a wrist fusion or synthetic bone grafting to reconstruct her foot and avoid amputation.
We Are Her Only Hope
Amputation is a last resort. Heidi’s Legacy Dog Rescue has stepped in to save Dixie from being euthanized, but they cannot handle the massive financial burden alone. "She simply endured the pain. Now, we must help her find the healing.
Dixie has been a trooper with her daily bandage changes. She has become a bit irritated so now she has yo have light sedation with every change. We did find a "regular " vet to do the weekend changes but it still cost over $400 a day.
When she is not at vet she enjoys her own private room, stuff toys and a ball. She does wander around the fosters home but prefers her own bedroom just like your normal "teenager".
We hope to get another update soon from orthopedic surgeon but right now the plan is still to save the leg with either fusion or an internal fixator.
#GSD #germanshepherd #rescuedog #AdoptDontShop
Dixie's adoption fee is $500 - obedience training is required after adoption and fully enclosed front or backyard is also required.
#germanshepherd #InjuredDog #rescuedog
To apply to foster or adopt please fill out application at
www.heidislegacydogrescue.com/apply-to-foster-or-adopt
Thank you for completing the application. We are all volunteers and short on time, we will contact you back only if we have more questions or your application is approved and you will be invited to meet the dog. We apologize for not being able to answer everyone back.
For more information contact info@HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
DOGS are in Foster Homes. There is NO shelter.
Our companions MUST live in your home as part of your family.We do not transport.
**See our website for more information. www.HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
All communication is thru email only so please be patient with us. We are all volunteers and work full time jobs and have families of our own.
The more complete the application the easier it is for us to process it. Please notify your vet that we will be contacting them and to release information to us. If you don't hear from us we have
chosen a home better matched for the dog's needs. We apologize for not being able to answer everyone back.
ADOPTION PROCESS:
1. Complete this application
www.heidislegacydogrescue.com/apply-to-foster-or-adopt
***Everyone must submit an application - we only keep them on file for 30 days
2. Application background check, vet check, etc
3. Invitation thru email only to meet the dog(s).
If you don't hear from us we have
chosen a home better matched for the dog's needs
4. Adoption Contract
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
Adopting a large dog in Bradenton
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 Bradenton
- Adopt Citrus County Animal Shelter PetsInverness, Fl · 4 large dogs above
- Tampabay German Shepherd RescuePalm Harbor, FL · 2 large dogs above
- Animal Refuge CenterNorth Fort Myers, FL · 2 large dogs above
- Hopeful Paws of FloridaEstero, Fl · 1 large dog above
- Golden Retriever Rescue of Southwest Florida, Inc.Bonita Springs, FL · 1 large dog above
- Heidi's Legacy Dog RescueTampa, FL · 1 large dog above
Questions about adopting large dogs in Bradenton
How many large dogs are up for adoption in Bradenton?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Bradenton, Florida, have 11 large dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a large dog in Bradenton?
The rescues with the most large dogs near Bradenton right now are Adopt Citrus County Animal Shelter Pets (Inverness, Fl), Tampabay German Shepherd Rescue (Palm Harbor, FL) and Animal Refuge Center (North Fort Myers, FL). 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.