Toronto Animal Services is teaming up once again with Toronto-based pet food company NutriCanine to promote dog adoption across the Greater Toronto Area, with a particular focus this spring on large-breed dogs.

The 2026 campaign highlights the longer shelter stays faced by big dogs, who wait an average of 1.5 times longer for adoption than smaller breeds.

The initiative runs from March 23 to April 23, during which Toronto Animal Services will waive adoption fees for large dogs and large-breed puppies.

Every newly adopted dog in Toronto will also receive its first order of NutriCanine food at no cost, offering new pet owners a vet-approved and fresh start.

“Adopting a dog is a life-changing experience for both the pet and the person,” said Hilary Roth, co-founder of NutriCanine. She noted the campaign’s expanded focus on large dogs, including her own Dobermann, Bella.

Elana Trainoff, partnerships manager for Toronto Animal Services, said many large dogs in shelters are overlooked simply because of their size. Last year’s joint effort resulted in 58 adoptions, and the partners hope to exceed that number this spring.

More information is available at toronto.ca/adoptapet and nutricanine.ca/adoptadog.