Toms River, NJ

Large Dogs for Adoption in Toms River, NJ: 19 Big Dogs Looking for a Home

Large Dogs up for adoption near Toms River, NJ

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Toms River have 19 large dogs up for adoption. Here are all 19, 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, Pit Bull Terrier and Labrador Retriever.

1. Mack

Adult · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier · 14 mi from Toms River

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. Apollo

Adult · Male · Pit Bull Terrier (short coat) · 20 mi from Toms River

Apollo, Pit Bull, White and Tan, Male neutered, 6 years old

Apollo can be a little nervous at first, but once you give him some time he settles down and is very loving. Apollo needs a home with a patient family that can give him the time he needs to settle in, and work on his socialization with everything around him. He seems afraid of other dogs and cats, and may do best as the only pet in the home at this time.

Read more about Apollo

This dog is at the Ocean County Animal Facility South located at 360 Haywood Rd, Manahawkin NJ (off of Garden State Parkway South Exit 63) Adoption hours 1-4 p.m. 7 days a week. Contact the facility at (609) 978-0127. 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.

You must also provide us with proof of home-ownership or a renter's policy that states you are allowed to have a dog.

Adopt Apollo fromSouthern Ocean County Animal FacilityManahawkin, NJ · listed Oct 30

3. Georgia

Adult · Female · Labrador Retriever / Mixed (medium coat) · 5 mi from Toms River

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

4. Zoey

Young (8 months) · Female · American Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 20 mi from Toms River

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

6. Arthur

Adult · Male · Shepherd / Mixed (short coat) · 5 mi from Toms River

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

7. Chachi

Adult · Male · Great Dane / Mixed (medium coat) · 5 mi from Toms River

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

8. Daisy

Adult (2 years 9 months) · Female · Labrador Retriever / Mixed (medium coat) · 20 mi from Toms River

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

9. Maverick

Adult · Male · Siberian Husky (medium coat) · 20 mi from Toms River

Maverick, Siberian Husky, Black and White, Male neutered, 7 years old

Maverick is a very sweet and gentle boy. He enjoys going for his walks and loves to be with people. He seems to get along well with other dogs, but does need a home without cats. Maverick would do best in a home with children over the age of 7 years old.

This dog is at the Ocean County Animal Facility South located at 360 Haywood Rd, Manahawkin NJ (off of Garden State Parkway South Exit 63) Adoption hours 1-4 p.m. 7 days a week. Contact the facility at (609) 978-0127. All dogs are spayed/neutered, micro-chipped, and have age appropriate shots.

Read more about Maverick

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.

You must also provide us with proof of home-ownership or a renter's policy that states you are allowed to have a dog.

Adopt Maverick fromSouthern Ocean County Animal FacilityManahawkin, NJ · listed Oct 2

10. Haze

Adult · Male · Bulldog (short coat) · 5 mi from Toms River

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

11. Billy

Adult · Male · Pit Bull Terrier (short coat) · 12 mi from Toms River

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

13. Milton

Adult (5 years 7 months) · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 20 mi from Toms River

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

14. Sabrina

Puppy (6 months) · Female · Doberman Pinscher / Black and Tan Coonhound / Mixed (short coat) · 20 mi from Toms River

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

15. Reebok

Young (1 year 5 months) · Male · Black Mouth Cur / Mixed (short coat) · 20 mi from Toms River

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

16. Gabriel

Adult (4 years) · Male · American Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 20 mi from Toms River

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

17. Hiro

Adult · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 14 mi from Toms River

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.

18. Jeffrey

Adult · Male · Mastiff / Shepherd (medium coat) · 12 mi from Toms River

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

19. Nala

Senior · Female · Pit Bull Terrier (short coat) · 12 mi from Toms River

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 Toms River

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 Toms River

Questions about adopting large dogs in Toms River

How many large dogs are up for adoption in Toms River?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Toms River, New Jersey, have 19 large dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a large dog in Toms River?

The rescues with the most large dogs near Toms River 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.