Large Dogs for Adoption in Knoxville, TN: 10 Big Dogs Looking for a Home
By Dogs of the Day · Updated

Rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Knoxville have 10 large dogs up for adoption. Here are all 10, 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 Labrador Retriever, American Pit Bull Terrier and Black Labrador Retriever.
Not in Knoxville? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Lady
Adult · Female · Black Labrador Retriever / Mixed (short coat) · 19 mi from Knoxville




See Courtesy Posting Disclaimer *
Hi, my name is Lady. I am a 3-year-old black Lab. I am in foster in Knoxville, Tennessee, from Texoma Dog Ranch Rescue in Texas. I was stressed out at the Dog Ranch being in kennels all the time and around a lot of loud dogs, so I was lucky enough to find a foster. I am a really sweet and smart girl.
I weigh 54 pounds, and I have been spayed and fully vetted, and even have a health certificate. I will come with 3 months heartworm preventative and 3 months flea and tick control. I know some basic commands, and I am house-trained and crate-trained. And I do not get on the furniture.
Read more about Lady
I do have a little bit of a fear of men but it doesn't take me long with some understanding to start to feel comfortable. I have been in my foster home for a little over a week, and I have really started coming out of my shell... oh, and by the way, I am dog-friendly, as my foster has two little dachshunds.
I would do well in just about any home, but preferably without younger kids, as I am quite large and might accidentally bump into one. I would absolutely love a home that was active and could take me on lots of walks and hikes, as I do really good on a leash and do not pull. I really hope I can find my forever home! If somebody will just give me a chance and let me get comfortable and get over my fears, I will do great. I promise I am a kind, gentle soul and will love you forever.
I would also love a fenced in yard to play in and run Zoomies. My foster has a privacy fence which is perfect, but I think as long as your fence is 5 feet or higher I will do fine and not try to escape, I promise. Is there anyone out there that will give me a chance? I was rescued from a shelter a day before I was supposed to be euthanized due to space, so I know I have a purpose for someone out there. For more information on me please email texomadogcoordinator@gmail.com. Also applications can be found at www.texomadogrescue.com
Thank you! [Posted 10/14/2026]
*Please be aware that this animal is a courtesy posting for the owner ONLY. SARG has no personal knowledge of this animal, nor of the animal's background and makes no claims with regard to the animal's health or behavior. SARG is therefore not responsible, nor do we make any claim about the adoptability of this animal.
- No young kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
2. Meatball
Young · Female · Labrador Retriever / Terrier / Mixed · 93 mi from Knoxville




Meet Meatball, a beautiful retriever mix around a year old who has already experienced more hardship than any dog should.Meatball was dumped at another facility that was already struggling with overcrowding. On top of that, this sweet girl is heartworm positive and currently working on gaining some much-needed weight. Despite everything she’s been through, she has maintained the most incredibly gentle, loving, and docile personality.And guys, when we say this girl is SWEET, we mean it!Meatball is genuinely one of those dogs who just seems to love everyone she meets. She does phenomenally with other dogs and adjusts beautifully to just about any playstyle, whether her friends are rambunctious or more laid-back.
Read more about Meatball
She loves children, has shown little interest in our office cats, and is an absolute dream on a leash!She’s still a young dog who enjoys playing and having fun, but she’s not excessively energetic. She’s a wonderful balance of playful and laid-back, making her a great fit for so many different lifestyles.PLEASE DON’T LET HER HEARTWORM DIAGNOSIS SCARE YOU AWAY!We are covering 100% of the cost of Meatball’s heartworm treatment! All we need is someone willing to open their heart and home to this deserving girl, provide the TLC she needs, and give her a safe, loving place to recover.Meatball has spent enough of her short life being let down. We want the rest of her story to be filled with full bellies, soft beds, endless love, and a family who will never give up on her.She’s only a year old. She has her whole life ahead of her, and we desperately want that life to be a good one. ❤️We also want to take a moment to remind everyone just how important community support is. It is because of YOUR donations and continued support that we are able to pull dogs like Meatball who have medical needs that many already overwhelmed facilities simply don’t have the resources to take on. Every donation, no matter how small, helps us give animals like her a chance they might not have had otherwise. We truly could not do what we do without you, and Meatball is a perfect example of the lives your generosity helps us save. ❤️Puppies 6 months and under are typically $200 and dogs from 7 months to 6 years are typically $100.00. The adoption fee may be higher or lower than stated however, and is dependent on many factors including age, behavior, medical condition and demand. All dogs 7 years and older are free under our Saving Seniors program. We frequently run discount specials and occasionally a dog will be more than the stated fee.Most cats and kittens are $35.00, however there may be instances in which the fee is higher or lower, due to age, behavior, medical condition or demand. With felines, we always have an "Adopt one, bring another one home for free" adoption special!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
3. Tinker
Young · Female · Labrador Retriever / Terrier / Mixed · 93 mi from Knoxville



Meet Tinker! This sweet girl is ready to wiggle her way into someone’s heart! Tinker is an EXTREMELY sweet, playful, and affectionate girl with a personality that’s impossible not to love!She absolutely LOVES other dogs and is quite the social butterfly! Whether she’s making new furry friends, enjoying some playtime, or heading out for a walk, Tinker is always happy to be included! She’s also fantastic on leash, making her a wonderful companion for adventures!Tinker has so much love to give and is eagerly waiting for a forever family to share it with! Come meet this sweet girl and see for yourself just how special she is!Puppies 6 months and under are typically $200 and dogs from 7 months to 6 years are typically $100.00.
Read more about Tinker
The adoption fee may be higher or lower than stated however, and is dependent on many factors including age, behavior, medical condition and demand. All dogs 7 years and older are free under our Saving Seniors program. We frequently run discount specials and occasionally a dog will be more than the stated fee.Most cats and kittens are $35.00, however there may be instances in which the fee is higher or lower, due to age, behavior, medical condition or demand. With felines, we always have an "Adopt one, bring another one home for free" adoption special!
- Good with dogs
4. Debbie
Young · Female · Labrador Retriever / Anatolian Shepherd / Mixed · 22 mi from Knoxville




Debbie: Freshly Baked & Made with Love Debbie is a 1-year-old Retriever mix weighing 78 lbs, and this big batch of sweetness is fresh out of the oven and ready to steal your heart! Warm, affectionate, and just a little goofy, Debbie is the kind of treat everybody loves—whether they're young, old, two-legged, or four-legged. With her playful spirit and endless supply of love, this oversized Little Debbie is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth!Debbie is: Sweet as a warm chocolate chip cookie Loves people of all ages Great with dogs and cats Young, goofy, and full of playful energy 78 lbs of freshly baked happiness Made with love and extra sprinkles Call or text Lisa at 865-310-2599 or apply at www.maarcadopt.org/adoption-application
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
5. Gunner
Young (8 months) · Male · Mountain Cur / Mixed (short coat) · 88 mi from Knoxville







This dog is in Tennessee. Adoption Donation $200 if picked up in TN, $275 plus transport fee for out-of-state adoptions.
Read more about Gunner
Gunner believes with his whole heart that the best place in the world is wherever you happen to be. This gentle Mountain Cur mix is about 7.5 months old and weighs 45 pounds, carrying a low-medium energy level with a big, loving heart. He lives for being petted and loved on, and honestly, that would be his whole world if he could get it. He enjoys playing with his foster puppy sibling and lazily chasing a ball, and he is still a little uncoordinated during fetch, which only adds to his charm. He is quiet by nature and sleeps soundly through the night. Gunner is fully housetrained with no accidents in his foster home, and he did well riding in a crate in the car. He is learning to sit for meals and is working on putting his feet up on a retaining wall to get pets instead of jumping, since his enthusiasm for affection sometimes gets the better of him. He is also making great progress on leash walking, and is now confidently walking around the fields near his foster home.
He does well with other dogs and has shown curiosity toward the goats, though his intentions there are still a bit of a mystery. Gunner is not a good fit around chickens as he has shown stalking behavior toward them. Gunner would thrive in a home where he gets to be involved in everyday family life and stay close to his people, he truly is a velcro dog at heart. A fenced yard is strongly recommended to keep him safe and happy. If you are looking for an affectionate, gentle dog who wants nothing more than to be by your side, Gunner would love to meet you. Reach out to A.A.R.F. by text at 931-260-8018 or visit www.aarf-tn.com to start the application process.
Meet this dog at Petco on Saturday, Nov 7th from 1-4 pm CST at Petco, 377 W. Jackson St #11 Cookeville, TN 38501.
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
6. Mandy
Adult · Female · American Pit Bull Terrier (short coat) · 90 mi from Knoxville




AVAILABLE FOR SAME DAY ADOPTION Mandy, Animal ID#A61401976, Adult, Approx. 3 yrs, Female, 50 lbsI came into the shelter on 7/20/26 as a stray from Rock Stand Gap in Clarkesville, GA.Make an appointment to meet me here: https://calendly.com/hcacc/Please contact the shelter directly @ 706-839-0195 for inquiries!General Info: https://www.facebook.com/HcaccShelter/about
7. Rags
Adult · Male · American Pit Bull Terrier (short coat) · 90 mi from Knoxville




AVAILABLE FOR SAME DAY ADOPTION Rags, Animal ID#A61508414, SENIOR, Approx. 8 yrs, Male, 45 lbsI was brought to the shelter on 8/6/26 from Wall Bridge Road in Clarkesville, GA.Make an appointment to meet me here: https://calendly.com/hcacc/Please contact the shelter directly @ 706-839-0195 for inquiries!General Info: https://www.facebook.com/HcaccShelter/abou
- No cats
8. Buddy
Young (1 year 1 month) · Male · German Shepherd Dog / Collie / Mixed (short coat) · 88 mi from Knoxville




BUDDY is a courtesy listing, not in the AARF foster program, and we are posting online to help the owner find a home for them. Please visit http://aarf-tn.com/adopt/adoption-app/ to apply.
Read more about Buddy
Introducing Buddy! Buddy is around 1 yr old and weighs around 60lbs. He is the kind of dog who will remind you every day that love comes first. Still young at heart, Buddy is a smart, active shepherd, collie, and hound mix who loves having a job to do. Whether he's keeping an eye on the yard, exploring a trail, or riding along in the truck, he's happiest when he's with his people. Before he's ready for a meal, he's looking for a few pets and some attention from his favorite people, and that sweet habit says so much about who he is. He already knows "sit," walks nicely on a leash, and appears to be housetrained. He has also done well with the senior dog in his current home and has formed a deep bond with the family who rescued him. Buddy has plenty of energy and would love a home where he can run, play, and continue learning through positive training. A fenced yard or a home with room to explore would suit him well, and he seems like a great match for someone who enjoys hiking or country living. He has shown a strong instinct to chase cats and passing motorcycles, so a home without cats and with a secure place to play would help him succeed. Storms can be scary for him, and he appreciates reassurance when the weather turns rough. After being found as a stray, Buddy has blossomed into a loyal, affectionate companion with a goofy side that keeps everyone smiling. He's ready to trade his temporary porch for a forever one where he can be part of the family, inside the home and close to the people he loves. Buddy is neutered, up to date on vaccines and has been treated for fleas. Contact us for more information on adopting Buddy.
- No cats
9. Ferlin
Young · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 22 mi from Knoxville




Ferlin: Director of Fun & Friendship Ferlin is a 10-month-old Pit Bull mix weighing 50 lbs who takes his job as the play yard's official Fun Director VERY seriously. Whether he's organizing a wrestling match, refereeing tug-of-war, or recruiting a shy newcomer for a game of chase, Ferlin makes sure every dog gets a chance to join the fun. Big or small, young or old, this social butterfly knows exactly how to match his playstyle to his friends!Ferlin is: The play yard's resident VIP Great with dogs of all ages and sizes A master of tug, wrestling, and chase Adapts his playstyle to his doggie pals Makes sure nobody gets left out Best suited for families with kids 12+ Call or text Lisa at 865-310-2599 or apply at www.maarcadopt.org/adoption-application
- Good with dogs
10. Thor
Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 76 mi from Knoxville




Thor is a handsome boy that is looking for love! He was born around 12/1/23 and weighs about 70 pounds. His previous adopters stated he is house-trained. He would love to be the king of your castle, but he might be ok with a female dog if introduced slowly. He has great leash manners and is such a joy to be around. Thor is neutered, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations, heartworm negative and on monthly prevention, and ready to be adopted! His adoption fee is $200 and you can apply to adopt at mpravl.org. Thank you for checking out Thor!
Adopting a large dog in Knoxville
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 Knoxville
- Yancey County Humane SocietyBurnsville, NC · 2 large dogs above
- Maryville Alcoa Animal Rescue CenterMaryville, TN · 2 large dogs above
- A.A.R.F. - All About Rescue and Fixin' Inc.Cookeville, TN · 2 large dogs above
- Habersham County Animal Care and ControlClarkesville, GA · 2 large dogs above
- Shelter Animals Rescue GroupOak Ridge, TN · 1 large dog above
- Mountain Pet Rescue AshevilleCandler, NC · 1 large dog above
Questions about adopting large dogs in Knoxville
How many large dogs are up for adoption in Knoxville?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Knoxville, Tennessee, have 10 large dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a large dog in Knoxville?
The rescues with the most large dogs near Knoxville right now are Yancey County Humane Society (Burnsville, NC), Maryville Alcoa Animal Rescue Center (Maryville, TN) and A.A.R.F. - All About Rescue and Fixin' Inc. (Cookeville, TN). 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.