CBC News

· Posted: Mar 19, 2026 8:54 PM EDT | Last Updated: 9 hours ago

Big dogs are loyal canines, affectionate and sweet, but often overlooked when it comes to pet adoption, according to a city agency.

Toronto Animal Services says it has joined forces with NutriCanine, a Toronto-based fresh dog food company, to change perceptions about large dogs. The two organizations will run their second annual campaign from March 23 to April 23 to help big dogs find loving homes in the Greater Toronto Area.

Toronto Animal Services says it will waive all adoption fees for large dogs and large-breed puppies across Toronto to encourage more families to consider going big.

Large is defined as a dog over 50 pounds or a puppy that is expected to be over that weight.

Big dogs are loyal canines, affectionate and sweet, according to a city agency (Lizardflms / Shutterstock)

'These dogs have so much love to give'

Elana Trainoff, partnerships manager at Toronto Animal Services, said people are sometimes intimidated by the idea of having a large dog. She said there can be concerns about space, exercise needs and lifestyle fit. But she said big dogs mean big love.

"These dog have so much love to give," she said. "And I think if you give them a chance, it could change your life."

Trainoff said the agency is running the campaign because large dogs wait longer for owners simply because of their size.

"Large dogs sit in shelters for at least one-and-a-half to two times longer than any of the other animals in our shelters through no fault of their own," she said.

Campaign resulted in 58 adoptions last year

Trainoff said many big dogs are perfect companions who thrive in a variety of living situations.

"We have lots of couch potatoes that are very happy to go for a walk and live in a smaller space. Every single dog has its own back story, and the only way to really know is to come in and meet them and understand which is the best fit for you," she said.

The campaign last year resulted in 58 adoptions.

Trainoff said the adoption process remains the same, which means potential pet owners should go to this city webpage to see available dogs. Then they should call the shelter where the dog they want is being kept, make an appointment, bring their family members and maybe their existing pet for a visit, and find out which dog is the best fit.