Large Dogs for Adoption in Erie, PA: 11 Big Dogs Looking for a Home
Rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Erie have 11 large dogs up for adoption. Here are all 11, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.
Big dogs often wait longer for homes than small ones, though many are gentle, loyal and easy-going. Every dog on this page is listed by their rescue as large or extra large, with breeds like German Shepherd, Shepherd and Australian Shepherd.
Not in Erie? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Winston
Everyone, meet Winston!
Winston is a 4-month-old Shepherd/Black Mouth Cur mix who made the journey all the way from Texas in hopes of finding his forever family. Sadly, this sweet boy found himself on the euthanasia list at just 12 weeks old. Thankfully, he was given a second chance at life, and now he’s ready to find the loving family he deserves! ❤️
Winston is a happy-go-lucky guy who is full of life, love, and puppy energy! He currently lives with two foster canine siblings and two foster feline siblings, and he absolutely loves them all! He enjoys playing with his foster siblings but is also perfectly happy entertaining himself with his favorite stuffed bat toy.
This friendly little guy is looking for a family to call his own — one that will love him unconditionally, spoil him rotten, and help him grow into the amazing dog he’s meant to be!
Winston is already making great progress with potty training, learning to love his crate, and practicing his good manners.
Read more about Winston
He’s a smart boy who is eager to learn and ready to start his next chapter with a family of his own!
Could Winston be the missing piece to your family? If you’re ready to give this sweet boy the forever home he’s been waiting for, please fill out an adoption application, and we’ll be in touch!
Let’s help Winston find his happily ever after! ❤️
Apply today at www.sadiesrescue.org
Please keep in mind there are many factors to consider when choosing the right match for a puppy, so an application cannot guarantee adoption. Nor do we work on a "first come first served" basis, but rather strive to find the best match for the personality of each dog. At the time of adoption, the puppy will be current on vaccinations and deworming. He or she will come with a pre-scheduled appointment at our vet to be spayed or neutered that the adopter is obligated to keep. The puppy will also be microchipped at this time. Please consider the time and effort it takes to raise a puppy. Foster puppies are typically NOT potty trained. They require time and patience from their adopter. If you are NOT serious about adoption and have not discussed the possiblility of adding a new canine to your home with ALL live in family members, DO NOT APPLY. Volunteers spend countless hours reviewing applications, calling references, and scheduling home visits. Please be sure you are ready to add a puppy to your home BEFORE applying. Our puppy adoption fee is $400 plus a $50 training deposit, which is refunded to the adopter when he or she provides proof of having completed a basic obedience class with their puppy. As part of our adoption process, references both personal and veterinarian will be checked. Sadie's also requires a home visit before we adopt any of our dogs out; therefore we only adopt to our local WNY region.
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
2. Jax Allen
Jax was born around April 15 2017 and weighs about 55 pounds. Jax is with us because his owner could no longer care for him. Jax rides well in the car and walks ok on a leash. Jax has been around children of all ages, cats, and dogs and does well with everyone. Jax has a lot of energy and is very smart! We will be looking for a home that can meet both his mental and physical exercise needs since his world is fast and fun! He is a smart boy and learned the dog door quickly, but for some reason he thought he had to BURST through it instead of walk. It's just how Jax rolls and he surely doesn't act his age. He has learned how to swim and LOVES it even though he is still a bit splashy with his front legs. He is a very funny boy. We've also discovered that he loves to play fetch and does bring the toy or ball back for you to throw again. The Adoption Fee for this dog is $450.00
Adoptions fees vary based on adoptability. In general our fees include spay/neuter, all age appropriate vaccines, Home Again micro-chipping & registration, worming & flea control - a "complete" pet. We accept CASH or Visa/Mastercard ONLY.
Read more about Jax Allen
Joyful Rescues has no funding except for our adoption fees and miscellaneous donations. Pet care and vet bills are expensive - you must be ready to take on this financial (as well as emotional) responsibility. YOU MUST BE AT LEAST 25 YEARS OF AGE TO ADOPT A DOG FROM JOYFUL RESCUES
We keep our pet list as up-to-date as possible. As soon as a pet is adopted, it is removed from the list. If a pet is still showing, it is still available for adoption.
Can't Adopt Me? SPONSOR ME
Look for the Link "Special Instructions to Seller" if you want to note a particular pet
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
3. 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
4. Francine
Meet Francine!
Regal beauty or cartoon character? We’re still trying to decide.
Francine is a gorgeous 58 pound black Lab/retriever type girl with long legs, an extra long nose, enormous paws and some very distinctive features. Her foster family suspects there may be a little German Shepherd in there somewhere... although based on those legs, we haven't completely ruled out horse. Francine has been in her foster home for a couple weeks and more of her personality comes out every day. She is sweet, silly, playful and has quickly settled into life with her foster family. One of Francine’s absolute favorite activities is splashing in her water bowl. Drinking from it is apparently only part of its intended purpose. If she can get some of the water onto the kitchen floor in the process, even better. She is doing wonderfully with potty training and has had no trouble understanding that business belongs outside. She is also learning the ropes of crate training and making progress, although confinement isn't exactly her favorite thing yet. She’s a clever girl, so her foster family continues to work on making her crate a comfortable, positive place.
Francine loves chewing on her chew bones and especially loves playing with her foster brother, Zuul, a pittie. The two have become great playmates, and when she's finished romping around, Francine is perfectly happy to curl up on the couch alongside him. And then there's the Francine flop. She knows how to sit, but when affection is involved, sitting frequently turns into slowly sliding herself all the way down until she's sprawled on the floor waiting to be loved. Kitchen, living room, outside... location doesn't seem to matter. At 58 pounds, Francine is currently underweight and has some filling out to do. Between those big paws, long legs and lengthy frame, she's going to be a substantial girl once she reaches a healthy weight.
Read more about Francine
Francine is spayed, potty trained, dog friendly in her foster home and learning more about home life every day. She has plenty of puppy like playfulness wrapped up in one very long, very lovable and wonderfully goofy package.
If you're looking for a beautiful girl who can make you laugh, splash your kitchen floor, play hard and then flop down beside you, Francine might just be your girl.
If you are interested in adopting, please complete an adoption application at www.sadiesrescue.org Please keep in mind there are many factors to consider when choosing the right match for a dog, so an application cannot guarantee adoption. Nor do we work on a "first come first served" basis, but rather strive to find the best match for the personality of each dog.
As part of our adoption process, references both personal and veterinarian will be checked. Sadie's also requires a home visit before we adopt any of our dogs out; therefore we only adopt to our local WNY region. Please only apply if you are serious about adopting as placing each foster dog in the best home takes time and effort by our volunteers.
- Good with dogs
5. 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
6. 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
7. Norman
If you’re looking for the most lovable, handsome hound around, Norman is your guy!
After spending nine long months in a shelter in North Carolina, Norman recently made the journey to Buffalo and is embracing every moment of his new life. Norman is truly the sweetest guy and loves absolutely everyone he meets! He loves meeting new people, exploring the world around him, going for walks, and playing with his toys.
Norman is the perfect mix of playful and lazy. He’s always up for a walk, some playtime, or an adventure, but he’s just as happy lounging around, soaking up attention, and enjoying a good nap with his people.
What Norman loves most is being with his people.
Read more about Norman
Whether he’s following you around the house, hanging out by your side, or soaking up all the pets and attention he can get, this affectionate guy just wants to be part of the family.
This sweet hound has the most adorable ears and is learning to use them to listen! At approximately seven years old, Norman has so much love left to give and deserves nothing but the very best for the rest of his days.
If you’re looking for a sweet, loyal companion who will make you laugh, join you for an adventure, and then happily curl up and relax with you, Norman is waiting to meet you!
If you are interested in adopting, please complete an adoption application at www.sadiesrescue.org
Please keep in mind there are many factors to consider when choosing the right match for a dog, so an application cannot guarantee adoption. Nor do we work on a "first come first served" basis, but rather strive to find the best match for the personality of each dog.
As part of our adoption process, references both personal and veterinarian will be checked. Sadie's also requires a home visit before we adopt any of our dogs out; therefore we only adopt to our local WNY region. Please only apply if you are serious about adopting as placing each foster dog in the best home takes time and effort by our volunteers.
- Good with dogs
8. 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.
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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
9. 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
10. Onyx
If you're looking for a loving companion, Onyx is your girl! She just wants to be loved, and she'll give all the love right back to you. She is a sweet, kind girl who settled in quickly to her Foster home and is just happy to be right there to supervise daily life. She is eager for all the walks, especially a nice sniffari!Onyx is perfectly happy to lay with you on the couch with those soulful eyes, or entertain herself with her favorite toys. Bonus points for playing fetch with her! She is very curious and has fun keeping an eye on the neighbors. She does well with a crate and is eager to work on new commands, especially for treats!
Read more about Onyx
If you are interested in adopting, please complete an adoption application at www.sadiesrescue.org Please keep in mind there are many factors to consider when choosing the right match for a dog, so an application cannot guarantee adoption. Nor do we work on a "first come first served" basis, but rather strive to find the best match for the personality of each dog.
As part of our adoption process, references both personal and veterinarian will be checked. Sadie's also requires a home visit before we adopt any of our dogs out; therefore we only adopt to our local WNY region. Please only apply if you are serious about adopting as placing each foster dog in the best home takes time and effort by our volunteers.
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
11. 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 Erie
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 Erie
- Sadie's Safe Harbor Canine RescueHamburg, NY · 4 large dogs above
- Rose's RescueRootstown, OH · 4 large dogs above
- Joyful Rescues, Inc.Cuba, NY · 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 Erie
How many large dogs are up for adoption in Erie?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Erie, Pennsylvania, have 11 large dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a large dog in Erie?
The rescues with the most large dogs near Erie right now are Sadie's Safe Harbor Canine Rescue (Hamburg, NY), Rose's Rescue (Rootstown, OH) and Joyful Rescues, Inc. (Cuba, NY). 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.