Greenhill Humane Society Launches “More to Love,” A Large Dog Success Initiative

The initiative, made possible by a grant from Hill’s Science Diet, aims to reduce barriers and increase adoptions for large breed dogs this summer.

Greenhill Humane Society announces the launch of “More to Love: A Large Dog Success Initiative,” a summer-long campaign running June 1 through August 31, 2026. Generously sponsored by Hill’s Science Diet, the initiative is designed to tackle the real and perceived barriers that prevent large dogs from finding loving homes, and to set both dogs and adopters up for lasting success.

According to the 2026 Hill’s Pet Nutrition State of Shelter Pet Adoption Report, large dogs represent just 26% of dog intakes at U.S. shelters but had the longest lengths of stay in shelters compared to medium and small dogs. Large dogs spend 70% more time in shelters than small dogs. While national interest in dog adoption remains strong, large dogs face unique barriers including concerns about physical handling, limited living space, and the perceived cost of care. 

Greenhill is familiar with these challenges, as locally 55% of the dogs Greenhill has seen in recent years have been large or extra-large (44+ lbs). These large dogs, and even large-breed puppies, are in Greenhill’s care longer than their smaller canine counterparts.

“We are seeing the same trend that shelters in other parts of the country are seeing, but our situation is more than the average. 55% of the dogs that come to Greenhill for care and shelter are considered large or extra-large breeds. They are in our care longer than smaller or medium-sized dogs. We want to find a way to get them adopted and into loving homes more quickly and are thankful for the grant from Hill’s Science Diet that will make this possible.”

– Cary Lieberman, Executive Director, Greenhill Humane Society

During the three-month long More to Love campaign, specially selected large dogs will go home with an adoption package tailored to that individual dog’s needs. Packages may include:

• A custom-fitted harness and leash set
• Enrichment tools such as hard chew toys, slow feeders, snuffle mats, or puzzle toys
• Hill’s Science Diet training treats
• Training support materials and adoption starter kits
• Additional items to ensure a smooth transition and future success in a new home

The adoption packages are supported by Hill’s Science Diet. Hill’s Science Diet has long been a leader in pet nutrition science and shelter support, and their partnership reflects a shared commitment to improving outcomes for animals in need.

Large breed dogs of all ages will be available for adoption at Greenhill Humane Society throughout the campaign. Learn more about adoptable dogs and see all the dogs that have “More to Love” here.

About Greenhill Humane Society
Greenhill Humane Society has been caring for animals in Lane County since 1944. It is a private, non-profit organization that relies on charitable donations. Greenhill is located at 88530 Green Hill Road in Eugene. The organization envisions a world in which all animals are treated with compassion and respect. In 2025, Greenhill assisted over 5,900 animals through our lifesaving programs. Greenhill dogs, cats, and rabbits are spayed or neutered prior to adoption, receive recommended vaccinations, and are microchipped. To learn more, visit the Greenhill website and follow on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok.