We’re seeing a growing need—and we’re turning to our community for support.
Several of our large-breed dogs are currently looking for experienced foster homes. Dogs like Peanut, Emjay, and Marble have so much potential, but they’re struggling to shine in a busy shelter environment. They’d benefit immensely from a quieter space, a little extra patience, and the guidance of someone who understands dogs with bigger personalities and bigger needs.
If you’ve fostered before—or have experience with large-breed dogs—this is your chance to make a meaningful difference.
Foster care is one of the most compassionate and flexible tools we have in animal welfare. It gives animals space to decompress, helps us learn more about their behaviour in a home setting, and relieves pressure on shelter resources so we can help more pets overall.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw just how impactful foster care could be. When the community rallied around fostering, we were able to move animals into homes faster and support more adoptions. But as life returned to normal, that momentum began to fade.
Now, we’re seeing that slowdown—especially when it comes to our big dogs.
Marble – Marble is a gentle, soft-souled mama who has blossomed beautifully since arriving at the shelter. Initially fearful of the world, she’s now showing off her sweet and playful personality—especially when other dogs are around. Marble walks beautifully on leash, loves quiet time with trusted humans, and thrives in a calm, stable environment. She would do best in a home with another friendly dog and a patient family who can help her continue to build confidence and trust at her own pace.
Peanut – Peanut is a loyal, regal beauty who builds deep, lasting bonds with her trusted humans. She’s working on becoming more comfortable with strangers and needs a quiet home with adults who understand her need for structure and space. Though she can be selective and intense, she’s full of love, silliness, and potential when she feels secure. Peanut would thrive in a calm, dog-free home where her boundaries are respected.
Emjay – Emjay is a big personality with an even bigger heart—he just needs the right person to help bring out the best in him. This strong, spirited boy is smart, food-motivated, and has a real zest for life, especially when tug toys or time in the park are involved. He’s currently working through some challenges, including leash reactivity, overstimulation, and difficulty managing frustration. But with consistent structure, experienced handling, and a calm environment, Emjay has shown that he can focus, engage, and build trust.
Like many dogs who’ve faced stress and uncertainty, Emjay needs a home that will advocate for his space, reinforce boundaries with kindness, and provide the predictability he craves. Emjay will thrive in an adult-only, pet-free home with someone who’s comfortable reading dog body language and confident in helping him manage his excitement. In return, he’ll offer loyalty, goofy play sessions, and glimpses of the wonderful dog he’s working hard to become.
Newton – Newton is a smart and lively young dog who’s still learning how to manage his excitement and energy. He’s made great progress with calm walks and time to explore on his own, but sometimes he gets too excited—especially when he’s playing. He would do best in a home where things are predictable, with gentle social opportunities and plenty of positive ways to burn off energy. Newton needs someone with experience who can give him the patience and guidance he deserves, and a home without young kids.
HK– HK is a handsome pup with a strong love for his people. He’s affectionate, eager to connect, and happiest when he’s with someone he trusts. While he’s a sweetheart at heart, the world can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming for him—especially busy streets or when other dogs are nearby. HK is working hard on building his confidence and learning how to feel safe and settled in more stimulating environments. With some patience, structure, and understanding, he’s made progress—and with the right support, there’s so much more he can achieve.
HK is looking for a calm, adult-only home where he can be the only pet and have people who understand that some dogs just need a bit of extra space and reassurance. If you’re experienced, consistent, and ready to offer both boundaries and love, HK could be your perfect companion. With time and trust, he’ll show you just how sweet and loyal he really is.
Lyle – Lyle is a clever, cuddly couch companion who prefers calm, quiet time over busy, noisy places. He feels happiest indoors where he can relax, snuggle, and show off his smarts. When out on walks, new sights and sounds—like other dogs, birds, and strangers—can overwhelm him. Lyle would do best in a home with peaceful walking spots. He’s looking for a calm, adult-only household where he can be the one and only pet, with people who will patiently support his training and help him feel safe and comfortable.
If you fall in love with any of these wonderful dogs, please know they are also available for adoption. Whether you choose to foster or adopt, you’ll be giving a big dog the chance to thrive in a loving home.
These aren’t your average couch potatoes. While they all have plenty of love to give, they also benefit from structure, enrichment, and consistency—things that are harder to provide in a busy shelter setting.
If you’ve worked with large dogs before or have experience with pets who need a little extra support, we’d love to hear from you.
Fostering with us means you’re never doing it alone. We provide:
Fostering doesn’t have to be a long-term commitment to have a big impact. Even a few weeks in a home can help build confidence, reduce stress, and prepare a dog for adoption.
If you’re ready to welcome a big dog into your life—even temporarily—one of our large breed dogs would love the chance to meet you.
Apply to foster today by filling out this form.
Questions? Reach out to our Foster Team at foster@torontohumanesociety.com
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