Large Dogs for Adoption in Lorain, OH: 14 Big Dogs Looking for a Home
Rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Lorain have 14 large dogs up for adoption. Here are all 14, 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, Hound and Labrador Retriever.
Not in Lorain? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Winnie
Meet Winnie, one of our newest residents at the Mikey & Me Kennels for Happy Days Rescue.
Winnie is a Rottweiler/Shepherd mix, she’s just 8 months old, she has short hair and a beautiful bicolored coat, and she weighs about 50 pounds. She is a wonderful dog, she doesn’t bark much, she’s good with kids and other dogs, and she walks nicely on leash. Winnie loves spending time in the outside play yard and discovering everything the outdoors has to offer; she appears to be potty trained too.
Read more about Winnie
Winnie had her first physical and vaccinations prior to arrival, she will be going in for additional vaccinations in the next week or so, and she will be microchipped for her safety at that time. Winnie will be scheduled for spay surgery shortly thereafter.
If you’d like to meet this sweet girl, please submit an adoption application under her name at happydaysdogandcatrescue.org. (Or, a quick-meet app can be submitted at Mikeyandme.org).
Happy Days Dog and Cat Rescue microchips all dogs and cats before adoption. Microchips are implanted between the shoulder blades and are another form of identification should the animal get lost. The microchips are registered to Happy Days Dog and Cat Rescue. The adopter's information is added once the adoption is complete. The adopter is responsible for a $19.99/Year registration fee or a $45.00/Lifetime registration fee to change information. Dogs and Cats still need to have collar with tags should they get lost.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
2. Rooster
Meet Rooster, one of several new arrivals at the Mikey & Me Kennels for Happy Days Rescue.
Rooster is a Mixed Breed, he’s 1-2 years old, and he weighs about 65 pounds. He is a loving and sweet dog and he enjoys playing ball and other fun games with his people.
Rooster has a wonderful personality, he likes to stand up and give you a hug, he gets along well with other dogs, and he easily meets new people. He was neutered by his previous owner and he may be potty trained.
Rooster has been fully vaccinated, including his Rabies shot, and he will be tested for heart worm disease at his first Vet visit. He did well on his recent physical examination.
Read more about Rooster
If you would like to adopt this fun family dog, please submit an adoption application under his name at happydaysdogandcatrescue.org.
Happy Days Dog and Cat Rescue microchips all dogs and cats before adoption. Microchips are implanted between the shoulder blades and are another form of identification should the animal get lost. The microchips are registered to Happy Days Dog and Cat Rescue. The adopter's information is added once the adoption is complete. The adopter is responsible for a $19.99/Year registration fee or a $45.00/Lifetime registration fee to change information. Dogs and Cats still need to have collar with tags should they get lost.
3. Finley
Meet Finley-Finn, one of our newest residents at the Mikey & Me Kennels for Happy Days Rescue.
Finn is a 2 year old Black Lab mix and he’s slowly learning that the world can be a safe and exciting place. We are looking to place Finn into a loving Foster home while he continues to embrace his new life. Mikey & Me and Happy Days Rescue will cover all standard expenses while Finn is being fostered.
Read more about Finley
Finn arrived at Mikey & Me in late August and he was afraid to go outside. But he is beginning to overcome this fear with noticeable improvement every day. He came to us underweight but he is gradually gaining weight and feeling better. Thankfully, he tested negative for Heart Worm disease at his first Vet appt. in Dexter.
While he may be reserved with new people at first, Finn’s gentle nature shines through once he begins to feel comfortable. Even with his current level of fear, Finn has never growled, tried to nip, or reacted in any way to any of our 70+ volunteers. Finn does well with other dogs and seems to gain confidence when he has canine companions around. He would likely thrive in a home with another friendly, well-balanced dog who can help show him the ropes and boost his confidence.
Finn is very sweet at heart and just needs patience, kindness, and time to fully open up. In the right home, he has all the potential to grow into a loyal, loving companion who bonds deeply with his person.
If you’re unable to Foster, please consider sharing this post to help Finn find a safe, loving, and quiet home. When he’s ready, his foster family will have the first chance at adopting Finn into their home.
Happy Days Dog and Cat Rescue microchips all dogs and cats before adoption. Microchips are implanted between the shoulder blades and are another form of identification should the animal get lost. The microchips are registered to
Happy Days Dog and Cat Rescue. The adopter's information is added once the adoption is complete. The adopter is responsible for a $19.99/Year registration fee or a $45.00/Lifetime registration fee to change information.
Dogs and Cats still need to have collar with tags should they get lost.
- Good with dogs
4. Roma
Meet Roma! This beautiful 1 year old German Shepherd mix girl is looking for a new home. She is spayed and up to date on her vaccinations. A $75 adoption fee is requested. Roma is located in the Aurora 44202 area. She is not a Rose's Rescue dog, we are posting her in order to help her owner find Roma a forever home. For more information please text Brooke at 740-408-0366.
- House-trained
5. Remington
Meet Remington — “Remi”!
Remi is a beautiful 3-year-old German Shepherd searching for a patient, loving family to call her own.
Remi can be shy when she first meets you , but give her a few days to settle in and her sweet personality begins to shine. Once she feels comfortable, she is an absolute sweetheart who will quickly steal your heart.
Remi would thrive with a family who understands that some dogs just need a little extra time and patience to feel safe. Having another confident dog in the home would be a wonderful bonus and could help her continue to come out of her shell.
Read more about Remington
Before heading to her forever home, Remi will be spayed, up to date on vaccinations, and microchipped.
If you’re looking for a sweet German Shepherd and are willing to give her the time she needs to blossom, Remi might just be your girl.
Help Remi find the forever home she deserves!
This animal is up to date on all shots, dewormed, and spayed/neutered. They have been heartworm tested (negative) and on prevention. The adoption fee is $275.00 If you are interested in adopting this pet please fill out an application.
http://www.ajssearchandrescue.org/adoption-application
- Good with dogs
6. Ruger
Meet Ruger!
Ruger is a handsome
10-year-old German Shepherd
looking for a loving home to spend his golden years! ❤️ Don’t let his age fool you — Ruger is still
very playful
and has plenty of personality and love to give.
Ruger does have
pannus
, an eye condition commonly seen in German Shepherds. Thankfully, it can be managed with
eye drops and doggie goggles
, and Ruger doesn’t let it stop him from enjoying life!
This sweet senior deserves a family who will give him all the love, comfort, and adventures he deserves. If you have room in your heart and home for a handsome older gentleman,
Ruger may be the perfect addition to your family!
❤️
Read more about Ruger
Give Ruger the golden years he deserves!
This animal is up to date on all shots, dewormed, and spayed/neutered. They have been heartworm tested (negative) and on prevention. The adoption fee is $275.00 If you are interested in adopting this pet please fill out an application.
http://www.ajssearchandrescue.org/adoption-application
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
7. Agar
I'm Agar a big handsome baby of a Block Head Rott, that is 2 and weighs in at 100 pounds. I should need about 10 more lbs, to get to my full weight. I have had a neglected 2 years. I was basically used to make puppies and kept outside. The person had a lot of dogs and sold me to a couple. I was covered in fleas and had lost some of my fur. The second couple kept me outside too. Now I am at the rescue, which I am thankful for. They gave me a good flea med and they died quickly. Then I had a medicated bath. Oh how good that felt. I have been neutered and vetted. I am in a big barn with my own couch and radio.
Read more about Agar
There is a door I can go outside into a kennel area. Then I get walks daily in a huge yard, for big me . I am very strong and need to learn to walk on a leash. I need overall training, because I have had none. I am too much, for the 70 year old lady I am with. A Rott lover that understands my breed, would be best to help me. A man would be great. I would love to hang out with the fellas in a barn or garage. I need a strong foster or adopter. I still think I'm a 10 pound puppy. I haven't really had a chance to bond to a person. If I could, I would be your best fan. I look forward to being in a home with someone to love me. It gets lonely out here. I don't expect much. I like being inside away from pesky bugs,but I do need a fenced yard to stretch my big body in. I am medium energy and entertain myself. I do love toys and balls. If you consider fostering me, you can start me in the right direction and get me ready for adoption, or keep yourself. What do you think, I will be your best bud. I'm ready to learn.
If interested, you can easily fill out an adoption application by clicking here: adoption application
For those viewing on Petfinder, if you are interested in adopting this animal please click on More About Rose's Rescue, you may fill out adoption application from there. Or go to the Rose's Rescue website, www.rosesrescue.net , and click on Fees - Adoption Info - Online Application
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
8. Lilliana
Lilliana is an approximately 4 year old Japanese Terrier mix girl. She is spayed and microchipped and gets along well with other dogs. She was originally adopted from the Grafton Prison Training program, but lost her home when her adopter became homeless. Her caretaker says Lilliana is a "very good girl".
Lilliana is in the care of the City of Kent Animal Control Officer and is looking for a new home.
Lilliana is not a Rose's Rescue dog, we are posting her on our website in order to help her caregiver find her a new home.
All inquiries should be directed to Marla at 330-673-7732.
Read more about Lilliana
Please help us find Lilliana a new home. Please consider making a $50 donation of toys, treats and or food for the other dogs waiting for homes.
- Good with dogs
9. Scooter
Meet Scooter. Rescued from a shelter in southern OH after his people surrendered him. Thus is a great dog and will make an awesome companion to an active family willing to exercise him. Scooter would love a canine companion, one that likes to play would be a bonus. He should go to a cat free home. He has been very friendly with everyone he has met but has kittens been around children since with us. His temperament seems good so older respectful children should fine. He rides like a dream in the car. A fenced yard is preferred. Scooter is house trained and crate trained. He is neutered and all his vetting is up to date. Scooter’s adoption fee is $225. If interested in Scooter, please email hartmanshounds@gmail.com.
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
10. Ziggy
I’m Ziggy, a 7 year old heeler/terrier mix and would really like a dog buddy to play with! I weigh 75 pounds and don’t know my size, so when I get excited, I may be a bit sturdy for small dogs or young kids. I really like fetching tennis balls, playing tug-o-war and being around people. I know some commands like sit, shake, down, and would love to learn more. I’m easily bribe-able with treats! When I’m done playing, I like to be a couch potato and will snuggle next to you. I do all my business outside and never had an accident in the house. I don’t like the crate or being confined, but I am trustworthy enough to be left out while my humans aren’t home. I also like car rides and will hop right in. The dogtor did a checkup and said everything looks good so I’m ready to meet my furever family!
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
11. Roman
Meet Roman! ❤️
Roman | 3 years old | 115 lbs | Cane Corso
Meet Roman, a big handsome boy with an even bigger heart! ❤️ Born in December 2022, Roman is a 115-pound Cane Corso who absolutely LOVES his people.
Roman is definitely an attached-at-the-hip kind of dog. If his people are around, he wants to be right there with them. He loves being included and is happiest when he can hang out with his favorite humans.
He knows his sit and shake, and he is an absolute rockstar in the car.
Roman can be a little shy when meeting new people and needs some time to warm up. Give him about 30 minutes, though, and you may find this giant boy trying to climb right into your lap! ❤️ Once he knows you, he is incredibly affectionate and loves being close.
He is still working on a few things, too.
Read more about Roman
Roman isn't a huge fan of the crate yet, but he's learning to accept it and making progress. He hasn't shown much interest in toys so far, and the hose is definitely on his “no thank you” list.
Roman is looking for someone who will give him the time and patience he needs to feel comfortable, while appreciating all the love and loyalty he has to give.
If you're looking for a big, goofy, affectionate shadow who wants nothing more than to be by your side, Roman might be your guy.
Roman is available for adoption! Born December 2022⚖️ 115 lbs Cane Corso❤️ Professional people-lover & certified Velcro dog
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
12. Helen
Helen is an adorable all natural 5-month-old female Doberman mix puppy who is ready to find her forever family.
Life didn't get off to the best start for Helen and her littermates. They were removed from their home by authorities due to poor living conditions, and the local shelter knew these puppies needed the help of a rescue. Doberman Underground stepped in and give them the chance they deserve.
Read more about Helen
Helen is thriving in her foster home. She's everything you would expect from a happy Doberman puppy—playful, curious, affectionate, energetic and full of personality! She loves exploring the world around her, enjoys playing with other dogs, is cat friendly, and is ready to shower her future family with love.
Dobermans are an intelligent, active working breed, and prior Doberman ownership experience is required. A canine companion in the home is ideal to help Helen continue building confidence and appropriate social skills. A physically fenced yard is preferred.
While puppies are undeniably adorable, they are also a significant commitment. They require patience, consistency, training, and plenty of time to grow into well-balanced adult dogs. All adopters are required to engage with a professional trainer to help set both puppy and family up for success. Spay/neuter contract required.
Before applying, please carefully consider whether you're ready for the time, energy, and dedication required to raise a puppy, as well as the lifelong commitment of the next 10–12 years. If you're prepared for the adventure, Helen is ready to reward you with a lifetime of love, laughter, and loyal companionship.
Apply today at
https://dudobes.org/adopt/application/
Doberman Underground adopts to Ohio and some close in counties of bordering states. Be sure to check the complete list of the state and specific counties we adopt to at the top of the application.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Sponsor Me by purchasing:
Toys / Treats $10.00 USDLeash & Collar $15.00 USDMonth of Food $35.00 USDMonthly Heartworm/Flea/Tick $40.00 USDTransportation Costs $60.00 USDVaccinations $100.00 USDSpay / Neuter $150.00 USDThyroid Panel $150.00 USDIncoming vetting $300.00 USDHeartworm Treatment $1,500.00 USD
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
13. Buck
Buck is almost 3 years old, is DNA tested, and guess what!?! He is exactly 50% GSD and 50% Great Pyrenees. What a fun combo for a dog!
He gets super excited when he sees me getting my tennis shoes on, or my ball cap because he knows it means we're going hiking. He's 100 pounds of lean handsomeness. LOL. He does well as a couch potato and is calm in the house on a normal quiet day. He is house trained, crate trained and does well with other non dominant dogs.
He loves playing fetch with any ball, and if you don't have time to play, Buck plays by himself. I'm looking for a home without young children because Buck does have herding/guarding tendencies.
Read more about Buck
Buck is looking for someone who loves the big boys, and can handle them.
Bucks adoption fee is $200, and includes all up to date vaccines, neuter, microchip, flea and heartworm preventative, and endless love and appreciation from BUCK!
Please fill out our non-obligatory application at pawsandprayers.org if you would like to adopt him!!
Please email sswank1@gmail.com with any questions.
This pet qualifies for the Pets for Patriots program https://www.petsforpatriots.org/veterans
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
- Special needs
14. Pound Dog-Coal -
Watch Pound Dog-Coal -'s videos (2)
BEEN WAITING SO LONG!
179858 Coal's Story
Black male pit bull came in as a stray. About 2 years old. Coal is a favorite with volunteers for a well behaved walk on the leash.We have restrictions on pit bull adoptions.
Coal being Coal…..good boy.
COAL
Age: 2–3 years
Gender: Male
Weight: about 57 lbs
About Coal:
Coal loves walks, listens well, and is very treat-motivated. He’s the kind of dog who would thrive in a calm, steady home.
He’s been patiently waiting for a home since October 2024, hoping for someone who appreciates his loyal and gentle nature.
Read more about Pound Dog-Coal -
Dog-Friendly?
Coal can walk past other dogs if reminded to “leave it,” but he prefers not to socialize. He’d be happiest as the only pet in the home.
Cat-Friendly?
No, he hasn’t tested well with cats.
Come meet Coal at Portage County Dog Warden’s Office & Shelter. No appointment needed!Coal's Petfinder Listing:
https://www.petfinder.com/dog/179858-coal-61960a32-275d-4845-bede-dafd7f971582/oh/ravenna/portage-county-dog-warden-shelter-oh184/details/Coal is not a Rose's Rescue dog. Coal may be met and adopted at the Portage Co Dog Warden's Shelter, 8120 Infirmary Rd, Ravenna, Ohio 330-297-6924
- Only dog
- No cats
Adopting a large dog in Lorain
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 Lorain
- Rose's RescueRootstown, OH · 4 large dogs above
- Happy Days Dog and Cat RescueLivonia, MI · 3 large dogs above
- AJ's Search & RescueLakemore, OH · 2 large dogs above
- Hartman's HoundsAmherst, OH · 1 large dog above
- Powell Animal Welfare Society (PAWS)Powell, OH · 1 large dog above
- The Buster Foundation Pit Bull Education and RescueBelleville, MI · 1 large dog above
- Doberman UndergroundAurora, OH · 1 large dog above
- Paws and PrayersCuyahoga Falls, OH · 1 large dog above
Questions about adopting large dogs in Lorain
How many large dogs are up for adoption in Lorain?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Lorain, Ohio, have 14 large dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a large dog in Lorain?
The rescues with the most large dogs near Lorain right now are Rose's Rescue (Rootstown, OH), Happy Days Dog and Cat Rescue (Livonia, MI) and AJ's Search & Rescue (Lakemore, OH). 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.