New report highlights why large dogs wait longer for adoption

Large dogs are spending longer in shelters than smaller dogs, and Hill’s Pet Nutrition is arguing that the gap is less about lack of interest than a mix of confidence, cost, and housing barriers. In its 2026 State of Shelter Pet Adoption Report, Hill’s said the large-dog edition is based on a survey of 2,000 U.S. adults and national shelter data, and found that while 35% of respondents said they’d be likely to adopt a large dog, many adopters hesitated over handling, training, veterinary costs, and whether they could even find housing that would allow a bigger dog. Hill’s framed the report as its first annual shelter-adoption study focused on a specific at-risk population, reflecting persistent capacity pressure tied to longer stays for large dogs. Broader shelter data point in the same direction: Shelter Animals Count reported that in the first half of 2025, large-dog adoptions fell 9% while small-dog adoptions rose 6%. (hillspet.com)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, the report puts everyday client communication at the center of an animal-welfare problem. Hill’s and outside shelter groups are both pointing to affordability, post-adoption support, and pet-inclusive housing as practical levers for keeping dogs moving into homes and staying there. The AVMA’s policy on dog and cat population management also identifies behavioral problems, barriers to accessing veterinary care, and housing concerns as root causes of relinquishment that veterinary education and continuing education should address. That gives clinics a clearer role: cost transparency, realistic counseling on large-dog care, behavior guidance, and partnerships with shelters on follow-up care may all help reduce failed adoptions and shelter crowding. (vet-advantage.com)

What to watch: Expect more shelters, brands, and veterinary partners to test fee relief, foster-to-adopt models, behavior support, and post-adoption care programs aimed specifically at large dogs. (shelteranimalscount.org)