Large Dogs for Adoption in Murfreesboro, TN: 14 Big Dogs Looking for a Home
By Dogs of the Day · Updated

Rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Murfreesboro 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 Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier and Poodle.
Not in Murfreesboro? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Professor Knox
Adult · Male · Doberman Pinscher (short coat) · 28 mi from Murfreesboro




Professor Knox.... my oh my what a beautiful soul this Doberman is!!! What you feel from Knox when you meet him is hope and an energy that he wants to learn and grow in to a phenomenal Doberman. Born on Christmas Day of 2025 this sweet puppy had all the hope in the world of a great life ahead. Somehow the stable future got sidetracked and he was not treated well in his first adoptive home. What happened next was a kind young couple heard of his plight and need for a new place and eagerly took him home without doing all the homework on the needs of a smart Doberman. They could not give him the big fenced yard and the time that a Doberman of his caliber needs. They have tried to be what he needs but they realize he needs so much more. With love they are asking Critter Cavalry Rescue to help them find his forever home soon but with much scrutiny. This 70 pound boy at just 10 months must not be placed in hands that are not capable and knowledgeable of the breed. Professor Knox is a sweet soul that has no aggression or fear. He is still so innocent in his time to learn and a sponge to be shaped and molded in to greatness. Professor Knox is a boy that needs more time out and about in the world so that he can be a great Ambassador for his breed. He loves cats and has his "own" cat in this second home that he is in now. He needs a dog to play with . The current dogs in his home are old and over the excitement of youth. Knox deserves a youthful playmate. He is housebroken, crate trained and knows how to manage a doggie door. Professor is a lover and not a fighter but if someone he does not know comes to the house and he greets them, he will stand between the visitor and his owner. Natural Doberman character. He is truly not leash savvy at all. He will need a new owner to train him on that and perhaps a harness will work best. He is not a chewer but he will gather things from around the house and put in his dog bed. This boy has the nature of a protector and a lover. A smart dog that is the best of his breed. He is still young and learning and we want a Doberman savvy family to adopt him and polish his nature talents to the fullest shine!!!!
Read more about Professor Knox
If you have a fenced yard, time, experience and love for the Doberman breed, please email Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennessee@gmail.com Professor Knox is ready for the new forever chapter of his life to begin. It has been a journey in this first year while in the hands of a few families. His destination is now in our hands at Critter Cavalry and we will be very careful and caring to find the perfect landing for him.
- House-trained
2. Jack
Adult · Male · Poodle (Standard) (medium coat) · 28 mi from Murfreesboro




Jack is a handsome 5 year-old, 60 lbs black Standard Poodle who is finally getting the opportunity to discover what it means to be part of a family. Originally his life started off being purchased as a puppy for one purpose — to be a breeding dog. He was never given the chance to live inside, curl up beside his people, learn the routines of a household or simply be someone's companion. He spent his years outside in a small pen and requured to father many puppies. He never got to experience the life that a dog like Jack deserves. Now that chapter is behind him, and we are so excited about what comes next.
Read more about Jack
Jack is incredibly loving, affectionate and smart. He has a wonderful temperament and truly enjoys people. There is a sweetness to him that makes it easy to imagine just how much he is going to blossom once he realizes that being someone's dog means so much more than simply being cared for. Although Jack has never lived inside, he is already showing us some very promising signs. He has been doing remarkably well with keeping his kennel clean, giving us a wonderful foundation as he learns house manners. And with the intelligence Standard Poodles are known for, we expect Jack to be a very willing student once he understands what is being asked of him. There will be plenty of new things for Jack to discover — household sounds, doors, furniture, routines and all the little parts of family life he has never experienced. He may need patience and guidance along the way, but he has everything we could hope for in a dog beginning this journey: intelligence, affection, a gentle nature and an enormous capacity to love. We can't help but think that Jack is going to be absolutely amazed by his new life with a family. A warm bed, a family to follow from room to room and someone who wants him beside them simply because they love him. The freedom to finally be a companion instead of a breeding dog. Jack has spent five years waiting for the opportunity to be someone's beloved family member. Now it's finally his turn. And we have a feeling this incredibly sweet, intelligent boy is going to be amazing at it. If you are interested in being this sweet boy's rescue family, please write to Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennessee@gmail.com
PLEASE NOTE: Our dogs and cats are fostered in Tennessee and can transport weekly up to the Northeast region. Request an application and learn more about Critter Cavalry at https://www.crittercavalry.com/adoption.
3. Jaco+
Male · Poodle (unknown type) / Mixed · 37 mi from Murfreesboro


Available dogs are met by pre-approved adopters ONLY after a match is made.The application is the first step. Please complete the adoption (or foster) application here: https://www.russellrescuetn.com/application-for-adoption/We do not have any paid staff members. We are 100% volunteer powered. Thx for your patience.If you’d like to help offset the costs of our precious dogs care: Donations can be made via PayPal russellrescuetn@gmail.com or Venmo @russellrescuetn (Russell Rescue Inc, Columbia, TN; Mary Ruth Rogers, last 4 of phone 5889)Find all of our links here: https://linktr.ee/russellrescuetn
4. Puppy Jay Jay
Puppy · Male · Black Labrador Retriever / Mixed (short coat) · 28 mi from Murfreesboro




It was a hot Sunday afternoon, late in the day and a pick up truck approached the bridge going over the small river tributary. Some black dots were scurrying around like little squirrels that were not sure that direction to go. Soon it would be dark and the group would be in even greater danger. They were black Lab mix puppies. All around 15 pounds and all were covered in fleas and of course dirt from never having had a bath in their life. There were 7 and Jay Jay was one of those abandoned 7 pups. The man wasn't going to take them home. He wanted no part of them nor to be stuck with them at his place. A kind woman stepped forward and soon the news trickled down to Critter Cavalry's exceptional foster mom who took two of them in.
Jay Jay is learning what air conditioning is like and what a good bath scrub down feels like as the warm water pours over his body washing away his past. He is a lucky pup and receiving love and good food and some normalcy that we are sure he never had before. He is good with other dogs and still hesitant to just go running up quickly to a new stranger. He wants to but he just cannot trust to do that yet. He will come to those that he knows. Two weeks is not enough time to reprogram a young soul that has never been a part of a family. But since he is young he will become new in all the ways of learning trust. He knows about pee pads and would love a fenced yard to run with true fun and free abandon any time his human can let him outside. This boy will be a 75 pound Lab when fully grown. We think he might have a touch of hound in him.... no Pitbull that we can see at all. We know nothing of his parents, just that someone carelessly threw his litter out of a car or truck on that bridge and sped off and never looked back. Jay Jay is looking forward and we are encouraging him every day to learn a leash and harness can be his doorway to experiencing exciting new places and good fun walks. If you are interested in this handsome boy who is ALL BOY DOG, then write to Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennessee@gmail.com He is ready for a new home and neutered with all shots and microchip and dewormings done. Healthy, sweet and on his way to finding all the happiness that a new family is willing to give
Read more about Puppy Jay Jay
ADOPTION FEE REQUIRED. Contact ccrtennessee@gmail.com.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
5. Tesla
Adult (1 year) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 34 mi from Murfreesboro


Meet Tesla!
Tesla’s story started with a frightening situation. We were called by the Police Department after Tesla and three other dogs were found left inside a truck in 90-degree weather. Thankfully, they were rescued in time, and now Tesla is ready for a fresh start.
Tesla is an absolute sweetheart who LOVES her people. Wherever you are, that’s exactly where Tesla wants to be! She’s happiest right by your side, soaking up all the love and attention she can get.
And don’t forget mealtime—this girl loves her food! ️ She also does great with other dogs and would be happy to have some canine friends.
Read more about Tesla
Tesla survived being left behind, but that doesn’t define her. What defines her is the love she has to give. Now she just needs someone who will choose her and make sure she never has to wonder where she belongs again.
Tesla is ready for forever. Could it be with you?
Medical Notes:
Spayed
Vaccinated
Microchipped
Heartworm Negative
ProHeart 12 Injection
Maintained on monthly preventatives
APPLY HERE
- Good with dogs
6. Lexus
Adult (2 years) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 34 mi from Murfreesboro


Meet Lexus!
Lexus’s story could have ended very differently. We were called by the Police Department after Lexus and three other dogs were found left inside a truck in 90-degree weather . Thankfully, they were rescued in time, and now Lexus is ready to leave that chapter behind and find the loving home she deserves.
Despite everything she’s been through, Lexus is an incredibly sweet girl who absolutely loves being close to her people. If you’re nearby, that’s exactly where she wants to be!
Lexus has already experienced what it feels like to be forgotten. Now we want her to know what it feels like to be chosen, loved, and treasured forever.
Read more about Lexus
Could Lexus be the missing piece of your family?
Medical Notes:
Spayed
Vaccinated
Microchipped
Heartworm Negative
ProHeart 12 Injection
Maintained on monthly preventatives
APPLY HERE
- Good with dogs
7. Lady Anne
Adult · Female · Great Pyrenees · 28 mi from Murfreesboro




Meet Lady Anne, a stunning 4-year-old Great Pyrenees whose story is one of resilience, devotion, and unconditional love.
When it came time to give birth, Lady Anne did what any devoted mother would do—she searched for a place she believed would keep her babies safe. She chose a quiet spot beneath a shed, only for that refuge to become anything but safe. Thankfully, a compassionate neighbor recognized the danger and reached out for help. Critter Cavalry stepped in just in time, giving Lady Anne and her nine newborn puppies the second chance they so desperately needed.
Read more about Lady Anne
Placed with an experienced foster family, Lady Anne slowly learned that she and her puppies were finally safe. At first, she was understandably protective, but with patience and kindness she allowed her foster family to help her. Beneath her thick coat were painful mats, ticks, and fleas, and she needed a gentle grooming and a trimmed belly so her puppies could nurse comfortably. Through it all, her only concern was her babies.
For seven weeks, Lady Anne rarely left their side. As the puppies grew, she would ask to step out of their pen, only to lie beside the fence, faithfully watching over them. Day and night, she stood guard, making sure every puppy was safe. Even after they were weaned, she continued her watch. It wasn't until each puppy had gone to a loving home and the pen stood empty that Lady Anne finally walked into the air-conditioned house, curled up, and truly rested.
Her watch was finally over.
But Great Pyrenees are born with a purpose, and Lady Anne simply found a new one. She now happily patrols the fence lines, checking on the livestock with quiet confidence before making her rounds to visit the very dogs she once chased away from her puppies. Today, they're all friends.
Lady Anne can be a little reserved when meeting new people, taking her time to decide who she can trust. Once she knows your intentions are kind, however, she gives you her whole heart. She'll greet you with joyful full-body wiggles, lean into your affection, and "talk" to you in her soft, gentle Pyrenees whines that seem to say just how happy she is to be by your side. She is cat-friendly, easygoing, gentle, and deeply loyal—the kind of dog who doesn't just become a pet but a steadfast companion. Lady Anne has already proven what an incredible guardian she is. Now she's looking for a family of her own to love and protect.
If you give this remarkable girl a chance, she'll spend the rest of her life reminding you that some of the greatest hearts belong to those who have overcome the hardest beginnings.
Please email Critter Cavalry Rescue is you are interested in having this beauty as a part of your life. ccrtennessee@gmail.com
ADOPTION FEE REQUIRED. Contact ccrtennessee@gmail.com.
8. Balsam Fir
Young (5 months 23 days) · Male · Labrador Retriever / Australian Shepherd / Mixed (medium coat) · 34 mi from Murfreesboro




Meet Balsam! This sweet boy is a happy, playful puppy with lots of love to give! He is incredibly affectionate, loves meeting new people, and enjoys being around his humans. He also gets along great with other dogs and cats.
Balsam is an energetic pup who loves to play but is happy to settle down for a nap when he’s tired. He’s doing great with leash walking and is learning basic commands like sit. His crate training is coming along nicely, and he’s becoming much more comfortable spending time in his crate.
House training is also going well! Balsam is making great progress and has even started letting his foster know when he needs to go outside. Like any puppy, he’s still learning his manners and will need a family committed to continuing his training.
Balsam is a loving, friendly boy who will make a wonderful addition to a family ready for all the fun that comes with raising a puppy!
Read more about Balsam Fir
Medical Notes:
Neutered
Vaccinated
Dewormed
Microchipped
Monthly flea/tick/heartworm preventative
Weighs 22lbs as of 8/9 /26
APPLY HERE
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
9. Hank
Adult (2 years 4 months) · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 34 mi from Murfreesboro










Meet Hank!
A happy, loving boy who's about 2 years old with a playful spirit and a heart full of joy. He loves chasing toys in the backyard, and while he's still perfecting the art of bringing them back, he's truly a toy enthusiast. Hank loves treats and is very food motivated. He enjoys walks, though he could use a bit more leash practice. He loves the company of other dogs and benefits from their good example, helping reinforce positive social behaviors. He's wonderful with kids. Hank is a playful, affectionate companion ready to find a family who will give him plenty of love, toys, and adventures. If you're looking for a fun-loving pup who will keep you smiling, Hank might just be your perfect match.
Read more about Hank
APPLY HERE
Medical Notes:
Neutered
Vaccinated
Microchipped
Heartworm Negative
ProHeart 12 Injection
Maintained on monthly preventatives
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
10. Aurora Alabama
Young (9 months) · Female · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 34 mi from Murfreesboro


Meet Aurora!
Aurora is a sweet girl who can be a little shy at first, but once she gets to know you, her personality comes out. She loves attention, exploring, and especially playing in the water. Give her a kiddie pool and she is a happy girl.
Aurora came to us from Alabama after we learned that the property owner was threatening to shoot her and the other dogs on the property. When she arrived, her skin was in terrible condition and she desperately needed care.
Thankfully, those days are behind her. Aurora’s skin has healed, she is feeling great, and she is ready to find a forever home where she will always be safe and loved.
Medical Notes:
Read more about Aurora Alabama
Spayed
Vaccinated
Dewormed
Microchipped
Heartworm Negative
Maintained on monthly preventatives
Blind in Right Eye - suspected from old trauma as a young pup - fully healed
APPLY HERE
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
11. Arnold Alabama
Young (11 months) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 34 mi from Murfreesboro






Meet Arnold!
Arnold is a sweet, easygoing boy who has really started to come out of his shell. One of his biggest accomplishments has been learning how to play with toys, and he’s finally discovering just how much fun they can be!
Arnold does well with female dogs and is happy to share, even if one of his dog friends decides to take a toy right out from under him. He can be dominant with male dogs, so we feel he would do best as the only male dog in the home or paired with a female.
Read more about Arnold Alabama
He has also come a long way with his leash skills and now loves going for walks. When it’s time to relax, Arnold is an easy keeper who is perfectly content settling into his favorite bed with a cozy blanket.
Arnold is a sweet, uncomplicated guy who is ready for a home where he can enjoy his walks, his toys, and all the comforts of being part of a family.
Medical Notes:
Neutered
Vaccinated
Microchipped
Heartworm Negative
Maintained on monthly preventatives
APPLY HERE
- Good with dogs
12. Alyssa Alabama
Young (10 months) · Female · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 34 mi from Murfreesboro



Meet Alyssa, a beautiful silver Staffordshire Terrier who is just under a year old!
Alyssa is as sweet as they come! She can be a little shy when first meeting new people, but she warms up quickly and loves being close to her humans. If you sit down, don’t be surprised when she climbs right into your lap for some cuddles.
Alyssa has a calmer personality and gets along wonderfully with other dogs. She is very easygoing and accommodating with her furry friends. She enjoys playing but is just as happy to settle down and snuggle. She will gladly follow you around the house while you clean, just to be near you.
Read more about Alyssa Alabama
Alyssa is potty trained, walks best in a harness, and truly wants to please her people. She’s a wonderful mix of playful, affectionate, and laid back. This sweet girl is ready to find a family to love!
APPLY HERE
Medical Notes:
Spayed
Heartworm Negative
Vaccinated
On monthly preventatives
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
13. Adam Alabama
Young (11 months) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 34 mi from Murfreesboro


Meet Adam!
Adam is a very sweet boy who can be a little shy when meeting new people. His foster has been working with him on building his confidence, and he has made so much progress. Once he gets to know you, he is incredibly loving and affectionate.
Adam is doing great on a leash, and his foster has also worked hard on his jumping and has gotten that under control. He does well with other dogs and is good with kids, although calmer children would be the best fit. Lots of running and excitement can make him a little nervous until he has time to get comfortable.
Read more about Adam Alabama
Adam has not been tested with cats. He is a sweet, lovable boy who just needs a family willing to give him a little time to warm up and show them what a wonderful dog he is.
APPLY HERE
Medical Notes:
Neutered
Vaccinated
Microchipped
Heartworm Negative
Maintained on monthly preventatives
- Good with dogs
14. Cathy Faith
Adult (5 years 8 months) · Female · Labrador Retriever / Mixed (short coat) · 34 mi from Murfreesboro



Meet Cathy Faith!
Cathy Faith came to us after we took a leap of faith ourselves. We were contacted about several dogs living outdoors with very little shelter during days of torrential rain and severe storms. Thankfully, Cathy is now safe, loved, and ready to find the forever family she deserves.
At 5 years old and 65 pounds, Cathy Faith is a happy, affectionate Lab mix who loves being with her people. She’s always up for playing with toys and enjoys the company of other dogs, making her a wonderful companion for just about any home.
Read more about Cathy Faith
Cathy is a strong girl and will need continued work on her leash manners. Her future family should be comfortable handling a larger, powerful dog and willing to help her learn to walk more politely on leash.
Cathy had a malignant tumor removed from her leg and has healed beautifully. While she is doing great, her future family should be committed to monitoring any new lumps or bumps and having them evaluated by a veterinarian promptly.
If the tumor were to recur, Proverbs will cover treatment with one of our board-approved veterinary partners.
Cathy is currently staying in boarding due to a shortage of foster homes, so her potty training status is unknown.
Cathy has been through so much, but she hasn’t let it dim her spirit. She’s ready to leave her past behind and find a family who will cherish her, keep an eye on her health, and give her the love she’s always deserved.
Cathy's adoption fee waived for an exceptional home.
Medical Notes:
Spayed
Vaccinated
Microchipped
Heartworm Negative
ProHeart 12 Injection
Maintained on monthly preventatives
Tumor removal from left from leg (malignant)
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
Adopting a large dog in Murfreesboro
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 Murfreesboro
- Proverbs 12:10 Animal RescueNashville, TN · 9 large dogs above
- Critter Cavalry RescueFranklin, TN · 4 large dogs above
- Russell Rescue, Inc.Columbia, TN · 1 large dog above
Questions about adopting large dogs in Murfreesboro
How many large dogs are up for adoption in Murfreesboro?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, have 14 large dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a large dog in Murfreesboro?
The rescues with the most large dogs near Murfreesboro right now are Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue (Nashville, TN), Critter Cavalry Rescue (Franklin, TN) and Russell Rescue, Inc. (Columbia, 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.