By Ali Wilkins: The number of large-breed dogs in UK rescue centres has risen in recent years. Local animal rescue charity, Bath Cats and Dogs Home saw a 16% increase in the number of large dogs they took into their care between August 2023 and August 2025. Currently, around half of the dogs at the rescue centre are larger breeds.
Bigger dogs are increasingly being abandoned as strays and brought into the animal rescue centre by council dog wardens, local vets or members of the public. Other large dogs are being surrendered for rehoming by their owners who are no longer able to care for them for a variety of reasons such as a change of circumstances or behaviour challenges such as separation anxiety.
Sadly, these larger dogs wait twice as long as small dogs for new homes. RSPCA statistics for 2024 showed that bigger dogs take at least double the time (60+ days) to find a home compared to small dogs (30+ days). At Bath Cats and Dogs Home, some larger dogs like Lurchers or Salukis can wait several months to be adopted after rehabilitation, costing the charity £1,195 per month in kennelling costs.
Rachel Jones, CEO at Bath Cats and Dogs Home, said: “We’d ask for the public to help our larger dogs in three ways this summer. If you are considering bringing a dog into your home, please keep an open mind about adopting a larger rescue dog of any size or breed; they can make the most loving companions with the right training. Secondly, please talk to us if you are struggling to cope with your large dog, as we may be able to offer some guidance, and they are easier to rehome if we know their history. Finally, if you can’t adopt yourself, please spread the word or consider supporting the care of our larger dogs with a donation so we can continue our vital rehabilitation and rehoming work.”
Abi Sutton, who adopted Mack, a German Shepherd Dog from Bath Cats and Dogs Home last year, said: “My partner and I decided to adopt a dog, and he wanted a young, small breed, and I wanted a large-breed older dog, so we compromised with an enormous puppy called Mack. Although a stray, Mack quickly settled into our home and routine, helped by puppy training classes. He has grown into a very large boy, but is gentle, loving and loyal. It’s hard to imagine our lives before Mack came along. I could go on forever about how wonderful it is to have a larger dog. Choosing him to be part of our family was one of the best decisions we have ever made.”
There are several reasons for the increase in bigger dogs in rescue centres across the UK. The current high cost of living is putting a financial strain on pet owners, and larger dogs are bearing the brunt of this rise in costs as they are more likely to be abandoned or rehomed due to higher food, vet bills, insurance and other costs compared to smaller dogs. The RSPCA’s Pet Cost Calculator shows that big dogs cost from £93 per month, whereas small dogs cost from £62 per month to care for.
For some owners, unexpected life changes like having a new baby, health issues, or moving house can make it harder to manage a strong, energetic dog.
Large-breed dogs tend to have larger litters of puppies, which makes it harder for breeders to find homes for them all.
Another factor is the rise in popularity of certain large breed dogs shown in social media videos as highly trained, working dogs like Malinois, Huskies or German Shepherds. This has increased public demand for breeds which often require a lot of training, exercise or mental stimulation, but can lead to bigger dogs being abandoned or handed over to rescue centres when the reality of their day-to-day care sets in.
Bath Cats and Dogs Home’s rehoming team carefully matches each dog with an owner who can meet their needs and vice versa. Potential adopters are encouraged to research the needs and traits of different breeds, consider their family’s working hours and lifestyle, and remain open to dogs of all sizes and breeds. Big dog’s thrive on routine, make active companions, and have big personalities to match their size.
The charity ensures that all dogs available for adoption are neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and treated for fleas and worms. Each dog is fully assessed by the Centre’s animal behaviour team, and adopters receive expert advice on grooming, training, and settling in their new pet.
Bath Cats and Dogs Home are keen to hear from dog lovers who are able to adopt a large breed dog or puppy. To find out more visit Adopting a pet
Or to donate towards the care of bigger dogs at the animal rescue centre, visit Bath Cats & Dogs Home