Large Dogs for Adoption in Baton Rouge, LA: 30 Big Dogs Looking for a Home
By Dogs of the Day · Updated

Rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Baton Rouge have 30 large dogs up for adoption. Here are all 30, 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 Terrier, German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever.
Not in Baton Rouge? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Nate
Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge



Meet Nate Dogg—and this handsome boy is ready to regulate his way right into a forever home. At just 1 year old, Nate is 56 lbs. of sweet, playful, happy energy. He loves attention, loves to have fun, and has plenty of that classic Nate Dogg swagger.It was a clear black night, a clear white moon… and Nate was sitting at VPRAC wondering when his people were coming to get him.So mount up, Regulators—Nate Dogg needs a ride out of the shelter and a couch to call his own!
2. Annie
Senior · Female · Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge


Meet Annie, a 10-year-old girl who is still waiting for her tomorrow. Annie is terrified at the shelter, and it’s taking time and patience for her to learn that the volunteers are there to love her, not hurt her. This big, vulnerable girl needs a gentle person willing to earn her trust and show her that the sun really can come out tomorrow.At 10 years old, Annie deserves to spend her golden years knowing what it means to feel safe, loved, and home.
3. Brinks
Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




Poor Brinks Surrendered through absolutely no fault of his own, this sweet 5-year-old boy is struggling with shelter life. He watches and waits for his people, and you can tell he doesn’t understand why they aren’t coming back.Brinks is 45 lbs. of pure sweetness and just needs someone to remind him that being left behind isn’t the end of his story. He deserves a family who will choose him—and this time, choose him forever.
4. Newman
Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




Unlike Seinfeld’s Newman, this Newman is impossible not to like! At around 2 years old and 40 lbs., he’s brand new to the shelter but is already showing everyone what a fantastic temperament he has. He’s happy, friendly, and tested GREAT with all the dogs he met!No drama, no enemies, no “Newman!” said through gritted teeth here. Just a handsome, happy boy with an enormous smile who seems ready to make friends wherever he goes.What’s the deal with Newman still being at the shelter?! Someone come get this good boy!
5. Nova
Puppy (7 months) · Female · German Shepherd Dog (medium coat) · 74 mi from Baton Rouge



Nova is a 7-month-old bundle of puppy joy who's back with us and ready to find her forever home. She was adopted three months ago and recently returned through no fault of her own. Her loss is your gain, because this girl is a delight!
This little girl has LOADS of puppy energy and plays relentlessly with her German Shepherd foster brother. She's very much a puppy in every sense of the word, so she's looking for a home that's ready to match her enthusiasm with daily, appropriate exercise, playtime, and ongoing training and socialization.
Read more about Nova
Nova is "extra". She hollers. She’s loud. And she will tell you all about it, in great detail, with full commentary.
We love her for it and we love her opinions.
Even with all that energy, Nova shows manners around her elderly canine foster brother. She respects his space and lets him enjoy his quiet time.
Because we make every effort to set our puppies and their new families up for success, Nova's adopter will be required to complete an NOGSR-approved training course.
If you have the time, energy, and heart for a playful pup who will grow into a wonderful companion, we'd love to hear from you. She will be available for adoption after she is been spayed later this week. Apply at nogsr.org.
- Good with dogs
6. Arthur Bourgeois
Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




We’re still getting to know this sweet pup and will share more soon! For now, is looking for someone willing to give them a chance and help them start their next chapter.
7. Sawyer
Senior · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




At 9 years old and 65 lbs, Sawyer is past the puppy chaos and knows how to be a really great companion. He’s very friendly, house trained, and happiest spending time with his people. He has that wonderful older-dog balance—still plenty of life and love to give, but with the manners and maturity that make him easy to enjoy.Sawyer does need to be the only dog in the home, but he’s more than ready to fill the role of best friend all by himself. He doesn’t need a pack—he just needs a person or family to call his own
- Only dog
8. Ariel aka Suga
Adult · Female · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




We’re still getting to know this sweet pup and will share more soon! For now, is looking for someone willing to give them a chance and help them start their next chapter.Ariel aka Suga would be best as the only animal in the home!
- Only dog
- No cats
9. Sara
Adult · Female · German Shepherd Dog · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




We’re still getting to know this sweet pup and will share more soon! For now, Sara is looking for someone willing to give them a chance and help them start their next chapter.
10. Sheba
Adult · Female · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge



We’re still getting to know this sweet pup and will share more soon! For now, Sheba is looking for someone willing to give them a chance and help them start their next chapter.
11. Axel
Adult · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




Axel is a sweet, playful, energetic boy who loves being around his people! He’s a Lab/American Staffordshire mix and is still settling in while we learn more about his personality and what type of home will be the best fit for him.Axel is a big boy who thinks he’s a lap dog, so a family who can appreciate his enthusiasm and give him plenty of room to run and play would be ideal. Stay tuned as we get to know Axel better!
12. Sherman
Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge


We’re still getting to know this sweet pup and will share more soon! For now, Sherman is looking for someone willing to give them a chance and help them start their next chapter.
13. Creed
Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




Someone cropped his ears. Someone cropped his tail. We don’t know what Creed’s life looked like before the shelter—but they couldn’t take away his sweet spirit. Creed is a handsome 2-year-old, 55-lb boy with a huge smile and an even bigger heart. He’s a genuinely nice boy who tested well with other dogs and is heartworm negative! Like Apollo Creed said, “There is no tomorrow!” And for shelter dogs like Creed, sometimes that’s heartbreakingly true. He needs someone in his corner today.
- Good with dogs
14. Izzy
Adult · Female · Black Mouth Cur / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




Izzy may have been found as a stray all by herself, but something about this sweet girl tells us she’s been a mama before. And apparently, once a mama, always a mama. Every time Izzy meets a younger dog, her motherly instincts seem to kick right in. She gently checks them over, sniffing and fussing over them as if she’s asking, “Are you okay? Do you need a mama?” It’s one of the sweetest things to watch.We don’t know Izzy’s story or where her own puppies might be. We just know that this beautiful 2-year-old girl has a tender, nurturing heart and plenty of love left to give. She spent enough time looking after everyone else—now it’s Izzy’s turn to be someone’s baby.
- Good with dogs
15. Baxton
Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




Every once in a while, a dog comes into the shelter and leaves us completely baffled. Baxton is one of those dogs. He arrived already neutered. He’s clean and well cared for, without a flea on him. He knows how to sit. He clearly knows people and a leash. And most importantly, he is an incredibly sweet, friendly boy who looks at you with that huge smile like you’re already his best friend. Everything about Baxton makes us think this boy has known what it means to belong to someone. So we waited for his family to come. They never did. We may never know Baxton’s story or how he ended up here. But we do know the dog standing in front of us now—and he is an absolute gem.
Read more about Baxton
Baxton is only about 1–2 years old and 62 pounds, with that wonderful combination of youthful happiness and good-boy manners. He sits when asked, loves attention, and has the kind of warm, easy personality that just feels like family dog.Because Baxton is the kind of dog we can picture right in the middle of somebody’s life—stretching out on the living-room floor, following his people into the kitchen, joining family adventures, greeting everyone with that enormous smile, and finally knowing that this time, his people are coming back for him.
16. Macey
Adult · Female · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




At just 1 year old and 46 lbs, Macey is a beautiful young girl who’s still trying to figure out why she’s in a shelter. Everything is new and a little overwhelming, but through it all she has remained incredibly sweet, gentle, and accepting of love.She happily leans in for pets, looks up at you with hopeful eyes, and seems to be searching for someone to tell her everything will be okay. With her soft brown coat, bright smile, and loving personality, it won’t take much for Macey to blossom into an amazing best friend.
17. Rosie
Adult · Female · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




Rosie is 47 pounds of confidence, personality, and one seriously contagious smile! This 6-year-old girl knows who she is and isn’t afraid to show it. She’s strong, outgoing, and full of life—the kind of dog who walks into a room like she owns it. Rosie would thrive with someone who appreciates a confident girl and is ready to let her be the one and only queen of the castle. She hasn’t been a fan of other female dogs, so we think Rosie will be happiest as the only dog in her home, where she won’t have to share her people—or the spotlight.
- Only dog
18. Rubel
Young · Male · Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




Rubel is all puppy—long legs, floppy ears, endless curiosity, and enough happy energy to brighten every room he walks into. This handsome boy is very friendly, tested well with other dogs, and is always ready to make a new friend. Whether he’s chasing a toy, exploring the backyard, or bouncing over for belly rubs, Rubel lives life with pure joy. After playtime, he’s more than happy to soak up love and attention from his favorite people. Rubel is still just a pup, which means he’s the perfect age to continue learning and growing alongside his forever family. If you’re looking for a loyal adventure buddy with a heart as big as his puppy paws, Rubel is ready to meet you!
- Good with dogs
19. Hillary
Adult · Female · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




With her fox-like face, perky ears, and striking amber eyes, Hillary is impossible to overlook. She’s absolutely beautiful—but it’s her loving personality that will truly steal your heart.This sweet 3-year-old tested well with other dogs and spent her time with volunteers doing exactly what she wanted most: soaking up pets, snuggles, and affection. Hillary leans right into the love and makes it clear she’s been waiting for someone to call her own. If you’re looking for a loyal companion who’s as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside, Hillary is ready to meet you.
- Good with dogs
20. Oakley
Adult · Female · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




This beautiful girl is already spayed and has the sweetest smile to match her gorgeous speckled coat. Calm, affectionate, and dog-friendly, Oakley walks beautifully on a leash and has an easygoing personality that makes her a joy to be around. She’s just as happy joining you for a walk as she is relaxing by your side.Oakley has done everything right. All she needs now is a family who won’t let her down again. If you’ve been looking for a loyal, loving companion with a stunning smile and a one-of-a-kind coat, Oakley is waiting to meet you.
- Good with dogs
21. Lucy Girl
Adult · Female · Catahoula Leopard Dog / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




Lucy Girl has the kindest eyes… the kind that tell a story. When you first meet her, she gently lowers her head in submission, as if she’s unsure whether she’s allowed to trust. It’s heartbreaking—and it makes every little tail wag and soft kiss she offers feel that much more special.The best part? Lucy wants to love. Give her a few gentle words, a few scratches behind the ears, and you’ll watch her melt into your hands. She absolutely blossoms with kindness and reminds you that sometimes the dogs who have known the least love appreciate it the most.Lucy also tested well with other dogs and has a calm, gentle demeanor that would make her a wonderful addition to a loving family. She’s not looking for perfection—just someone who will show her that her past doesn’t define her future.
- Good with dogs
22. Rexy
Adult · Female · German Shepherd Dog · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




If you’ve always dreamed of sharing your life with a classic German Shepherd, Rexy is ready to make that dream come true. This girl has everything people love about the breed—she’s intelligent, attentive, eager to engage, and always aware of what’s going on around her. Rexy already knows “sit,” watches her people closely, and carries herself with the confidence and grace that make German Shepherds so admired.But behind those alert ears and brilliant mind is an incredibly sweet soul. Rexy loves attention, enjoys spending time with people, and has tested well with other dogs, showing she can be both a loyal companion and a friendly canine neighbor. Whether you’re looking for a walking partner, a dog who enjoys learning new things, or simply a devoted best friend, Rexy is ready to be by your side through it all.
- Good with dogs
23. Zeus
Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




Named after the king of the Greek gods, Zeus has a larger-than-life personality—but instead of ruling Mount Olympus, he’d much rather rule your heart.This handsome 2-year-old is the perfect mix of playful and affectionate. Zeus tested well with other dogs, loves to romp around and have fun, then happily settles in for cuddles when playtime is over. He’s also a smart boy who already knows how to sit for treats—especially if snacks are involved!With his goofy grin, happy spirit, and loving heart, Zeus is the kind of loyal companion who makes every day a little brighter. If you’re looking for a best friend who’s equal parts champion, cuddle bug, and adventure buddy, Zeus is ready to claim his throne in your home.
- Good with dogs
24. Simba
Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




Simba has left his mischievous cub days behind and grown into a loyal, loving gentleman who’s ready for his forever kingdom. He has tested well with other dogs, proving that every great king knows the value of friendship. His favorite part of the day? Royal spa treatments! Give him scratches on his lower back or a good belly rub, and you’ll be rewarded with the biggest grin and a happy wiggle that would make even Timon and Pumbaa cheer.Like the Lion King himself, Simba has faced challenges, but now he’s ready to leave the past behind and step into the life he was always meant to have—a life filled with love, family, and endless adventures.
- Good with dogs
25. Duchess
Young (1 year 8 months) · Female · German Shepherd Dog (medium coat) · 74 mi from Baton Rouge



Here's Duchess — Found eating trash in the street, she'd landed in a small, hot, rural shelter. Now, thanks to some amazing volunteers, she is safely with our rescue. She is a young (between 1 and 2 years old) petite, 50-lb sweetheart looking for her forever family!
Don't let her smaller size fool you, she's got a big heart. Duchess is affectionate, snuggly, and just wants to be near her people (or curled up in your lap, if you'll let her). She's an absolute doll — her foster put it best: "She is a catch!"
A few things that make her extra special:
Loves other dogs — she settled right in with her GSD foster sister showing her the ropes
Read more about Duchess
House trained and crate trained
Still working up her courage around squeaky toys unless she's the instigator (they're just a little alarming — give her time!)
Spayed and up to date on all vaccines
She is heartworm positive and has already started her treatment, fully covered by NOGSR and a generous benefactor, so cost will not be a barrier to giving her a home
Duchess deserves a forever home of her own. Could that be with you?
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
26. Jude
Young · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge



Jude is the total package — big, handsome, young, and bursting with happiness. His goofy smile, airplane ears, and constantly wagging tail make it impossible not to fall in love with him.Jude looks like the kind of dog who would happily join you for adventures, then flop down beside you afterward like he’s been your best friend forever. He’s friendly, cheerful, and soaking up every bit of attention he can get. Even in the shelter, his personality shines through.This lovable boy deserves so much more than kennel life. He deserves a family who will appreciate his happy spirit and give him the life he’s been waiting for.
27. Paxton
Adult (4 years 2 months) · Male · German Shepherd Dog (medium coat) · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




Meet Paxton, a handsome 4-year-old German Shepherd looking for his forever family!
A little about him: Paxton is lovely and affectionate, and very chill in the house. He is incredibly smart and is able to play nicely on his own. He is extremely sweet and affectionate with his people. Per his foster, he has been an absolute joy to have around. He was even a very good boy at the vet when he went for his vaccines. He is very smart and has already learned "sit", "down", "leave it", and is working on more.
Read more about Paxton
Paxton is heartworm positive and has already started treatment. With proper care and treatment (handled by the rescue), he is expected to make a full recovery and go on to live a long, healthy life.
We are still learning how he feels about other dogs. Like many German Shepherds, he can be reactive to dogs while on leash, but has not shown reactivity to anything else at this time. An adopter with some experience and patience around leash reactivity and a willingness to work with him on this, would be a great fit for him because he is an amazing boy.
Paxton is up to date on vaccines and is neutered.
- House-trained
28. Colt
Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




Colt is learning what it’s like to be loved and truly enjoy life, and he’s settling into his foster home beautifully. He loves going for walks, spending time outside, and—most importantly—his dog bones! He’s also quite the nap enthusiast and has a special blanket he insists on keeping close. Colt enjoys the company of other dogs, but cats aren’t really his thing. He’s still learning and we’re getting to know him more every day. Colt’s past may not have been easy, but his future can be so much brighter.
- Good with dogs
- No cats
29. Breezy
Young · Male · German Shepherd Dog (short coat) · 74 mi from Baton Rouge





Meet Breezy! This two-year-old German Shepherd is an absolute sweetheart — affectionate, gentle, and loves meeting new people and soaking up all the attention. He's settled beautifully with his foster family's resident German Shepherds so would most likely enjoy being in a home with other friendly and playful dogs.
Breezy is calm and easygoing at home, incredibly intelligent, and a joy to train. He is on medication to help with separation anxiety— his adopter would simply continue that protocol. As of now, separation anxiety is no longer an issue for him!
Read more about Breezy
Breezy is heartworm positive. He is currently undergoing treatment and handling it like a champ!
If you're after a loyal, loving, playful, and highly trainable companion, Breezy might be your perfect match!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
30. Baby Girl
Young (1 year 1 month) · Female · German Shepherd Dog (short coat) · 74 mi from Baton Rouge




Baby Girl is a 1 year old, 60-pound German Shepherd settling into foster life and starting to show her true colors including a goofy, silly side we're loving more every day. She's a classic loyal shepherd who loves being near her people, and her foster mom is gently helping her build confidence and independence along the way.
She has been spending time with other dogs on a weekly basis and is great with them! She appears to be good or fairly neutral toward other dogs on walks and is showing calm curiosity toward cats.
Baby Girl is current on vaccines, spayed, and heartworm negative,
Read more about Baby Girl
UPDATE: Baby Girl and her foster are working on her socialization/interactions with dogs and people once a week with a local, certified, positive reinforcement trainer. She is doing an amazing job and her tail wags now! It is a beautiful thing to watch. Because of this, we think Baby Girl would do well in a home with other calm and confident dogs who can help her come out of her shell.
- Good with dogs
Adopting a large dog in Baton Rouge
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 Baton Rouge
- Animal Aid for Vermilion AreaAbbeville, LA · 25 large dogs above
- New Orleans German Shepherd RescueNew Orleans, LA · 5 large dogs above
Questions about adopting large dogs in Baton Rouge
How many large dogs are up for adoption in Baton Rouge?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, have 30 large dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a large dog in Baton Rouge?
The rescues with the most large dogs near Baton Rouge right now are Animal Aid for Vermilion Area (Abbeville, LA) and New Orleans German Shepherd Rescue (New Orleans, LA). 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.