Big dogs, Big hearts

Dogs

Why size doesn’t matter at BCDH

We’ve been welcoming lots of large dogs lately at Bath Cats and Dogs Home—and if you’ve ever worried that a big dog might be too much to handle, think again!

BCDH animal carer giving a big dog a cuddle

Supersized cuddles

Big dogs often come with even bigger hearts. Many are incredibly affectionate and love being close to their humans. They’ll happily snuggle up for a brush or a fuss - and yes, some will even try to climb into your lap, no matter how much space they take up!

Not all big dogs need big walks

Caring for a large dog isn’t always about long hikes or huge gardens. Some prefer mental stimulation over physical exertion, and love activities like puzzle games or scent trails. They’re just as happy using their brains as their brawn.

Quiet companions

While small dogs can sometimes be a bit vocal, big dogs are often more laid-back. Many are calm, gentle, and quietly loyal—no shouting for attention, just steady com-panionship.

Big dog with a cuddly toy

Judge the dog, not the breed

Some dog breeds come with unfair reputations, but at BCDH, we believe every dog de-serves to be seen as an individual. A dog’s personality is shaped by their experiences, training, and environment - not just their breed. 

Many so-called “tough” breeds are actually gentle, affectionate, and eager to please. That’s why we focus on getting to know each dog for who they truly are, and we encour-age potential adopters to do the same. You might be surprised by the loving companion you find when you look beyond the label.

Every dog is unique

Just like people, every dog has its own personality. Take a look at their profile pages to learn more about their likes, quirks, and needs. If you are matched, you’ll learn more about them from the team who look after them every day and you will spend time to get to know them before adoption.

» Visit our gallery to meet the dogs.

» Read Mack’s story “My partner wanted a small young dog - and I wanted a large-breed older dog... so we compromised with an enormous puppy!”


 

Our adoption process 

When you register with us, we’ll ask lots of questions about your lifestyle and living circumstances and ask you for some photos of your house and garden where your pet will live. If you rent, we’ll need a letter from your landlord agreeing that you can have pets. Then we use our rehoming experience to search for a potential match.

If we find a dog that might be a good fit, our rehoming team will get in touch with you personally to talk about it all in more detail. 

» Find out more about our adoption process

German Shepherd dog in a field

Mack

His adopters tell us what it’s like to live with a big dog

Dogs, Rehome

Abbie the Belgian Shepherd with a toy

Meet Abbie on International Dog Day

Celebrating International Dog Day with Abbie the Belgian Shepherd who is looking for a home.

 

Dogs, Rescue, Adopters

Siberian Husky

Nanook

Big dogs need loving homes too

Dogs, Rescue, Rehabilitate, Rehome

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