Lakewood, NJ

Large Dogs for Adoption in Lakewood, NJ: 17 Big Dogs Looking for a Home

Large Dogs up for adoption near Lakewood, NJ

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Lakewood have 17 large dogs up for adoption. Here are all 17, 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 American Staffordshire Terrier, Labrador Retriever and American Pit Bull Terrier.

1. Mack

Adult · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier · 10 mi from Lakewood

If you have room in your heart (and on your couch) for a 115-pound gentle giant, come meet Mack! At 2 ½ years old, this handsome guy is the total package. He’s spent his whole life in one loving home, but due to a change in his family’s work schedule, he’s now searching for his next chapter.

Mack is super friendly and loves everyone he meets.
He is professionally trained, housebroken, and walks beautifully on the leash. While he is completely neutral around other dogs when out and about, we prefer he be the only dog in the home so he can soak up all the love and attention he deserves.

Read more about Mack

If you're looking for a giant, loyal companion with excellent manners and a sweet, affectionate soul, please submit at application on our website Rescueridge.com to meet Mack.

Mack is neutered and up to date on shots and would love to get out of the kennel and back into a home where he belongs.

Mack is located in Monmouth County, NJ

Please note, we rarely do out of state adoptions.

Adopt Mack fromRescue RidgeSpring Lake, NJ · listed Nov 1

2. Georgia

Adult · Female · Labrador Retriever / Mixed (medium coat) · 7 mi from Lakewood

Georgia is up to date on vaccines, spayed/neutered and microchipped.

Read more about Georgia

Georgia is a gem! 7 year old Golden Retriever/Lab mix, confident, she loves walks and running around the yard exploring. No other dogs for Georgia as she doesn't like to share her food and treats. We are looking for a cozy home with a fenced in yard for Georgia who will show her understanding and kindness. We are helping Georgia with some medical needs that include the start of a weight loss journey, continued treatment for skin allergies, ear infections, renal disease which is maintained by diet, and some other issues that can be addressed after some weight loss and chill time. Despite everything, Georgia is a love.

*Updated 10/28/26 11:05am

  • House-trained
Adopt Georgia fromJersey Shore Animal CenterBrick, NJ · listed Oct 22

3. Zoey

Young (8 months) · Female · American Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 15 mi from Lakewood

Zoey is with our rescue partner in Louisiana is available to come to NJ if someone steps up to foster or adopt her.

Sweet Zoey knows what it feels like to be loved. She spent her life in a caring home until her owner passed away suddenly, leaving her heartbroken and searching for her next chapter. A family member stepped up to help, but with a young, active girl like Zoey, they simply don’t have the time she deserves.

Now Zoey is ready to put the sadness behind her and find a family of her own again.

Read more about Zoey

And honestly? She’s the whole package. Her foster says Zoey is smart, eager to please, friendly, and just an all-around wonderful dog. She walks beautifully on leash, is crate-trained, and has the kind of easygoing, loving personality that makes you wonder why she’s still looking.

Zoey isn’t asking for much—just someone to love her the way she loves. Could that be you?

Zoey is spayed, microchipped and up to date on age appropriate vaccines. Her adoption donation is $600.

Adopting a dog is a commitment that will require annual veterinary care at a minimum, training, exercise, enrichment, etc. Pet care is not cheap or easy and adopters should consider the costs, time and training prior to adoption. After all these dogs have been through they deserve a loving, committed home.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Zoey fromWag On Inn RescueOakhurst, NJ · listed Oct 15

5. Arthur

Adult · Male · Shepherd / Mixed (short coat) · 7 mi from Lakewood

This dog is part of our shelter outreach program where we take dogs from overcrowded shelters in hopes of finding them a forever home here! We generally do not have much background info on them and cannot guarantee they are housebroken. They are all up to date on vaccines, spayed/neutered and microchipped.

King ARTHUR is looking for his Camelot. Arthur is a 1 year old Male, Neutered, a Shepherd Mix, approximately 60 lbs. He is stunning, handsome, physically fit, confident, knows some commands. Arthur loves his walks, running and playing. Perfect Adventure Buddy material. A fenced in yard is required for Arthur.

*Updated 10/26/26 4:25pm

Adopt Arthur fromJersey Shore Animal CenterBrick, NJ · listed Oct 13

6. Chachi

Adult · Male · Great Dane / Mixed (medium coat) · 7 mi from Lakewood

This dog is part of our shelter outreach program where we take dogs from overcrowded shelters in hopes of finding them a forever home here! We generally do not have much background info on them and cannot guarantee they are housebroken. They are all up to date on vaccines, spayed/neutered and microchipped.
Chachi is a handsome 2 year old male, Great Dane mix, weighing approximately 50 lbs. This boy is tall and lanky, super fun, energetic, sweet, playful, amazing, and will be even more amazing once he has a forever home!
Kids 8+, Fenced in yard, and Basic Obedience Classes required.
*Updated 10/26/26 4:45

Adopt Chachi fromJersey Shore Animal CenterBrick, NJ · listed Oct 13

7. Daisy

Adult (2 years 9 months) · Female · Labrador Retriever / Mixed (medium coat) · 15 mi from Lakewood

Daisy is with our rescue partner in Louisiana is available to come to NJ if someone steps up to foster or adopt her.

Beauty, Brains & Loyalty

Meet Daisy—a stunningly beautiful black Lab mix with the kind of soulful eyes and glossy coat that stop people in their tracks. At about 2½ years old and 55 pounds, this gorgeous girl is the complete package: sweet, loyal, playful, and ready to be someone’s best friend.

Read more about Daisy

Daisy was found as a stray, but she has quickly shown everyone what an incredible dog she is. She loves people, gets along well with other dogs, and is good with kids too—making her a wonderful fit for a family looking for a loving, easygoing companion.

She walks nicely on leash, rides well in the car, enjoys her toys, and is always happy to be part of the action. Whether it’s family walks, weekend adventures, toy time in the yard, or curling up nearby at the end of the day, Daisy is ready to be right by your side.

Now all she needs is the forever home she has been waiting for.

Daisy is spayed, microchipped and up to date on vaccines. She completed her heartworm treatment and has a clean bill of health. Her adoption donation is $500.

Adopting a dog is a commitment that will require annual veterinary care at a minimum, training, exercise, enrichment, etc. Pet care is not cheap or easy and adopters should consider the costs, time and training prior to adoption. After all these dogs have been through they deserve a loving, committed home.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Daisy fromWag On Inn RescueOakhurst, NJ · listed Oct 5

8. Susie

Young · Female · Unknown breed (short coat) · 19 mi from Lakewood

Lovebug looking for a home.

Read more about Susie

Susie came to us scared and skinny not knowing how to be a dog. What she did come with was the sweetest disposition we’ve ever seen in a dog; pure love and joy. With time, patience and a lot of love from her foster family and the resident dogs, Susie is learning to trust and has blossomed into an amazing dog. Susie truly smiles when she is happy and does her squishy face when she wants to get close to you and get some pets. She has made leaps and bounds in learning how to be a dog. Susie is good with other dogs although personal space is not her thing so older/senior dogs who don’t like her puppy energy may not enjoy her company. She is good with kids but older children may be best since fast movements tend to scare her. We feel Susie is ready to find her forever family and make them as happy as she makes her foster family.

Susie likes:

Playing with dog toys (and your shoes should you leave them near where the toys are )
Cheese – she knows the morning lunch making routine and is often first there to get her cheese tax
Other dogs – she loves to play and run in the yard with other dogs. She takes her cues from them still as she still has some confidence to build
Kids – older kids preferred as quick movements make her nervous
Her crate – Susie’s crate is her safe place and her preferred place to be if there is a lot of noise or a lot of people to be around. She goes in and sleeps through the night and prefers it over even the couch most days
Looking out windows to see who else is walking by

Susie’s has a few requirements for her adoption.

A fully fenced 6 foot or higher decent size yard where she can play and run. This girl can jump! She does not like the leash so running and playing in the yard are her main source of exercise and enjoyment
At least one other dog who likes to play and will be willing to engage with her
Someone who is willing to keep a crate available to her for as long as she wants which may be forever
Someone who has patience to continue to work with her and help her be the best dog yet

If Susie, sounds like your girl, please put in application in and someone will reach out.

****Please note: Susie came to us with documentation of her name as Shiobhan. But that is a big name for a dog and her foster family felt Susie was a much better fit.

Interested in adopting me? To fill out an application visit 3 Hearts 4 Paws. Please note: we generally do not adopt out of state (NJ).

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
  • Special needs
Adopt Susie from3 Hearts 4 Paws Animal RescueMorganville, NJ · listed Oct 2

9. Haze

Adult · Male · Bulldog (short coat) · 7 mi from Lakewood

This dog is part of our shelter outreach program where we take dogs from overcrowded shelters in hopes of finding them a forever home here! We generally do not have much background info on them and cannot guarantee they are housebroken. They are all up to date on vaccines, spayed/neutered and microchipped.
Haze is a 2 year old American Bully mix. Haze is a big sweetie. He's also a very strong boy that will do fabulous with active humans. He is a really good boy, incredibly smart and will impress you with all of the commands he knows. Haze loves to run outside, play with his toys, go for walks, and especially looks forward to cuddle time.
No cats for this boy. Kids 16+
*Updated 10/28/26 12:35pm

  • Good with kids
  • No cats
Adopt Haze fromJersey Shore Animal CenterBrick, NJ · listed Sep 20

10. Billy

Adult · Male · Pit Bull Terrier (short coat) · 8 mi from Lakewood

Billy, Pit Bull mix, Tan, Male neutered, 2 years old

Billy is a fun and playful boy with lots of energy! He enjoys playing with toys, especially playing fetch with a ball! He seems to like other dogs, but his energy level may be too much for some. Billy would do best in a home without cats, and would do better with children over the age of 12, as he may be too much for younger kids.

This dog is at the Ocean County Animal Facility North located at 615 Fremont Ave, Jackson NJ (off of Hope Chapel Rd). All dogs are spayed/neutered, micro-chipped, and have age appropriate shots.

Read more about Billy

To adopt our dogs you must come to the facility with your entire family, including dogs, to meet with our staff and the dog you are interested in.

We are open to the public seven days a week between the hours of 1pm and 4pm. Please call our facility at 732-657-8086 for more information about any of our pets!

Adopt Billy fromNorthern Ocean County Animal FacilityJackson , NJ · listed Sep 12

11. Milton

Adult (5 years 7 months) · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 15 mi from Lakewood

Milton is a goofy boy who is looking for a home! He's currently with our rescue partners in Louisiana but hoping to come to NJ soon with a foster or adopter.

Read more about Milton

Meet Milton, a charming canine companion bursting with goofiness and love. At 6 years old and around 60 lbs, this spirited pup is not just looking for a home; he's searching for a family that appreciates his playful antics. Milton's friendly disposition extends to both kids and dogs, making him a delightful addition to any household. Currently thriving in a foster home with dogs of all ages and sizes, Milton has proven to be house and kennel trained, showcasing his adaptability. His sunny personality matches his love for basking in the sunshine outdoors. Fully vetted and ready for his furever home, Milton is the complete package—he's seeking a residence with a fully fenced yard and a cat-free environment. If you're ready for endless laughs and canine companionship, Milton is eagerly awaiting to be the goofy heartthrob of your home.

Milton is fixed,

microchipped and up to date on rabies, DHPP and Bordetella vaccines. Oliver tested negative

for heartworm. His adoption donation is $500
.

Adopting a dog is a commitment that will require annual veterinary care at a minimum, training, exercise, enrichment, etc. Pet care is not cheap or easy and adopters should consider the costs, time and training prior to adoption. After all these dogs have been through they deserve a loving, committed home.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Milton fromWag On Inn RescueOakhurst, NJ · listed Sep 11

12. Sabrina

Puppy (6 months) · Female · Doberman Pinscher / Black and Tan Coonhound / Mixed (short coat) · 15 mi from Lakewood

Sabrina is a sweet girl who is looking for a fresh start. She's currently with one of our partner rescues in Louisiana and can come to NJ with an approved foster or adopter. Foster-to Adopt is available to ensure we have the perfect match.

Meet Sabrina — a sweet, long-legged girl with a gentle heart, a smart little mind, and so much love waiting to blossom in the right home.

Sabrina and her brother, Sora, were both on the euthanasia list at a shelter in Louisiana before they were pulled to safety by one of our amazing rescue partners. Now Sabrina is learning what it means to be safe, loved, and part of a family—and she is doing beautifully.

Read more about Sabrina

Compared with her more outgoing brother, Sabrina is a little more docile and submissive. She may take a moment to settle in, but once she feels comfortable, her playful puppy side shines through. She has those gorgeous long legs and is expected to grow into a tall, large girl, so she will need a home ready to welcome a big dog with an even bigger heart.

Sabrina is already making wonderful progress:

• She is nearly fully kennel-trained and having fewer accidents every day

• She is highly motivated by treats and food, making her a wonderful student

• She is smart, eager to learn, and catching on quickly to home life

• She loves the chance to move, explore, and stretch those long legs

• She is learning how to play more gently with smaller adult dogs

Like many young dogs, Sabrina can get a little bouncy when she is excited. The smaller dogs in her foster home are helping her understand that not everyone appreciates enthusiastic puppy energy—but she is being gently corrected and is learning to be more polite every day.

Sabrina would thrive with a patient family who can continue her training, give her structure and encouragement, and provide room for her to gallop, sniff, explore, and simply enjoy being a dog. She has come so far already, and we know her best days are still ahead.

Could Sabrina be the sweet, silly, smart girl your family has been waiting for?

Sabrina is fixed, micro-chipped, and up to date on her puppy vaccines. Her adoption donation is $6
00.

Adopting a dog is a commitment that will require annual veterinary care at a minimum, training, exercise, enrichment, etc. Pet care is not cheap or easy and adopters should consider the costs, time and training prior to adoption. After all these dogs have been through they deserve a loving, committed home.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Sabrina fromWag On Inn RescueOakhurst, NJ · listed Aug 22

13. Reebok

Young (1 year 5 months) · Male · Black Mouth Cur / Mixed (short coat) · 15 mi from Lakewood

Reebok is with our rescue partner in Louisiana and can come to NJ with an approved foster or adopter. We do offer foster-to-adopt trials for approved adopters.

Meet Reebok! Unlike the sneakers, this Reebok won’t make you run… he’ll happily stroll right beside you! This handsome Black Mouth Cur mix was found as a stray, but he’s the total package wrapped in a gorgeous tan coat with the sweetest face.

✔️ Walks like a gentleman on a leash

✔️ Rides great in the car

✔️ Polite houseguest and doesn’t jump on anyone

✔️ Zero food aggression

✔️ Keeps a clean kennel

✔️ Loves other dogs

✔️ Friendly with EVERYONE he meets

Read more about Reebok

✔️ Gentle, sweet, and always ready for treats and toys

✔️ Curious about cats, but not obsessive or aggressive

Reebok is one of those rare dogs who just seems to fit wherever he goes. Whether you’re looking for a walking buddy, a road-trip copilot, or a best friend to binge-watch your favorite TV series with, he’s ready to clock in for the job! He’s handsome, easygoing, and has the kind of personality that makes everyone fall in love. Now all he needs is a family to call his own. Could that be you?

Reebok is fixed, microchipped, and up-to-date on vaccines. He tested negative for heart worm. His adoption donation is $500.

Adopting an animal is a commitment that will require annual veterinary care at a minimum, training, exercise, enrichment, etc. Pet care is not cheap or easy and adopters should consider the costs, time and training prior to adoption. After all these animal have been through they deserve a loving, committed home.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Reebok fromWag On Inn RescueOakhurst, NJ · listed Jul 9

14. Gabriel

Adult (4 years) · Male · American Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 15 mi from Lakewood

Gabriel is with our rescue partner in Louisiana and can come to NJ with an approved foster or adopter. We do offer foster-to-adopt trials for approved adopters.

Meet Gabriel! This boy is a certified couch potato with a heart of gold. He has completely mastered the art of relaxing and is more than happy to lounge beside you, as long as you keep the belly rubs coming! Gabriel is calm, easygoing, and just has a very peaceful energy about him. He adores his toys, never turns down a treat, and truly just wants a comfy spot to land and someone to love.

Read more about Gabriel

Gabriel also has great manners! He’s house-trained, knows how to sit, and walks nicely on a leash. Gabriel has been friendly with children and other dogs as well and is just an all-around happy guy!

The part we can’t quite understand is how this gentle boy has been sitting in boarding for so long. There is never any chaos or drama with him. He’s just a really good dog waiting patiently while the world passes him by.

If you’ve been searching for a loyal and laid-back companion who’s happiest by your side, Gabriel is most definitely your guy. Let’s get this sweet boy out of boarding and into the home he deserves!

Gabriel is fixed, microchipped, and up-to-date on vaccines. He tested negative for heart worm. His adoption donation is $500.

Adopting a dog is a commitment that will require annual veterinary care at a minimum, training, exercise, enrichment, etc. Pet care is not cheap or easy and adopters should consider the costs, time and training prior to adoption. After all these dogs have been through they deserve a loving, committed home.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Gabriel fromWag On Inn RescueOakhurst, NJ · listed Jun 23

15. Hiro

Adult · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 10 mi from Lakewood

Meet Hiro, a sweet and loving 4-year-old mixed breed with a heart of gold. After a tough start in life, Hiro has made remarkable progress. Despite his resilience, kennel life remains challenging for him, and he longs for the peace and comfort of a stable home.

Hiro is a tender soul with a touch of insecurity, but his love for his trusted humans runs deep. Once he forms a bond, hell be your most loyal and affectionate companion, always ready for cuddles and quiet moments together.

Read more about Hiro

Hiro is dog-tolerant and has previously lived with small children. However, he thrives best in a calm, predictable household, as loud noises and busy environments can make him uneasy. Hes searching for a foster or forever family who can provide the love, patience, and sense of security he so greatly deserves.

If youre looking for a gentle, devoted companion who just needs a little extra reassurance, Hiro is ready to fill your home with unconditional love. Will you be the one to give him the peaceful life hes been waiting for?

If you are interested in Hiro, please go to
bfdaaa.
com to complete an application.

  • Good with kids
  • House-trained
Adopt Hiro fromRescue RidgeSpring Lake, NJ · listed Jun 23Courtesy listing: Hiro's family is rehoming him through this rescue.

16. Jeffrey

Adult · Male · Mastiff / Shepherd (medium coat) · 8 mi from Lakewood

Jeffrey, Mastiff/Shepherd mix, Brindle, Male neutered, 2 years old

Jeffrey is a very handsome boy! He may take a little time to warm up, but once he does, he is very sweet and enjoys getting attention. Jeffrey is a very big boy and is very strong when being walked on a leash. He needs a family that can handle a dog of his size and is experienced with his breed. Jeffrey does not seem to enjoy the company of other animals and would do best as the only pet in the home. He also needs a home without children, as they would be too much for him.

Read more about Jeffrey

This dog is at the Ocean County Animal Facility North located at 615 Fremont Ave, Jackson NJ (off of Hope Chapel Rd). All dogs are spayed/neutered, micro-chipped, and have age appropriate shots.

To adopt our dogs you must come to the facility with your entire family, including dogs, to meet with our staff and the dog you are interested in.

We are open to the public seven days a week between the hours of 1pm and 4pm. Please call our facility at 732-657-8086 for more information about any of our pets!

Adopt Jeffrey fromNorthern Ocean County Animal FacilityJackson , NJ · listed Jun 10

17. Nala

Senior · Female · Pit Bull Terrier (short coat) · 8 mi from Lakewood

Nala, Pit Bull, Black and White, Female spayed, 10 years old

Nala can be a bit anxious at first but is friendly when she greets you. Once you give her a little time to settle, she enjoys playing with toys, and especially loves to play fetch with a ball. Nala would do best as the only pet in the home, and she would do better with a family that has experience with her breed, and can give her the time she needs to adjust to her new home.

This dog is at the Ocean County Animal Facility North located at 615 Fremont Ave, Jackson NJ (off of Hope Chapel Rd). All dogs are spayed/neutered, micro-chipped, and have age appropriate shots.

Read more about Nala

To adopt our dogs you must come to the facility with your entire family, including dogs, to meet with our staff and the dog you are interested in.

We are open to the public seven days a week between the hours of 1pm and 4pm. Please call our facility at 732-657-8086 for more information about any of our pets!

Adopt Nala fromNorthern Ocean County Animal FacilityJackson , NJ · listed May 31

Adopting a large dog in Lakewood

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 Lakewood

Questions about adopting large dogs in Lakewood

How many large dogs are up for adoption in Lakewood?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Lakewood, New Jersey, have 17 large dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a large dog in Lakewood?

The rescues with the most large dogs near Lakewood right now are Wag On Inn Rescue (Oakhurst, NJ), Jersey Shore Animal Center (Brick, NJ) and Rescue Ridge (Spring Lake, NJ). 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.