Adopt a Mastiff in Los Angeles, CA
Your guide to finding and caring for a Mastiff in the City of Angels
Los Angeles offers Mastiff owners something most cities can't, year-round outdoor living, dog-friendly beaches, and a sprawling landscape with plenty of room for a giant breed. But LA also brings unique challenges: extreme heat in the valleys, wildfire smoke season, and a car-centric lifestyle that requires planning around your Mastiff's needs. This guide covers everything you need to know about adopting and raising a Mastiff in LA.
90 Mastiffs available for adoption in Los Angeles
Mastiffs Available for Adoption in Los Angeles
Big Girl,3-7 years
Mastiff
Los Angeles, CA
(1 miles away)
Franchesca,6 months- 2 years
Mastiff
Los Angeles, CA
(1 miles away)
Kimmie,6 months- 2 years
Mastiff
Los Angeles, CA
(1 miles away)
Tsunami,3-7 years
Mastiff
Los Angeles, CA
(2 miles away)
Boss,3-7 years
Mastiff
Los Angeles, CA
(2 miles away)
Panda,3-7 years
Mastiff, Mixed Breed
Los Angeles, CA
(2 miles away)
Cjay Bff Material,8 years and up
Mastiff
Los Angeles, CA
(4 miles away)
Cjay The Best,8 years and up
Mastiff
Los Angeles, CA
(4 miles away)
Cjay The Golden,8 years and up
Mastiff
Los Angeles, CA
(4 miles away)
Cjay The Goldenbachelor,8 years and up
Mastiff
Los Angeles, CA
(4 miles away)
Cjay Goofy Derp,8 years and up
Mastiff
Los Angeles, CA
(4 miles away)
Cjay Lover Of,8 years and up
Mastiff
Los Angeles, CA
(4 miles away)
Cjay Best Friend,8 years and up
Mastiff
Los Angeles, CA
(4 miles away)
Cjay Tongue Flopping,8 years and up
Mastiff
Los Angeles, CA
(4 miles away)
Cjay Goof ,8 years and up
Mastiff
Los Angeles, CA
(4 miles away)
Tanner,6 months- 2 years
Mastiff, German Shepherd Dog
Los Angeles, CA
(6 miles away)
Sweet Pea,0-6 months
Mastiff
Pasadena, CA
(8 miles away)
Charles,6 months- 2 years
Mastiff
Beverly Hills, CA
(8 miles away)
Yago,6 months- 2 years
Shepherd, Mastiff
Burbank, CA
(9 miles away)
Pharoh,3-7 years
French Bulldog, Mastiff
Burbank, CA
(10 miles away)
Yuley,6 months- 2 years
Pit Bull Terrier, Mastiff
Hawthorne, CA
(11 miles away)
Remi,3-7 years
Mastiff
Los Angeles, CA
(11 miles away)
Lily,3-7 years
Mastiff, Mixed Breed
Valley Village, CA
(12 miles away)
Z E P P,3-7 years
American Staffordshire Terrier, Mastiff
Redondo Beach , CA
(13 miles away)
Tiffany,3-7 years
Mastiff
Bellflower, CA
(14 miles away)
Fetti,3-7 years
Boxer, Mastiff
Sherman Oaks, CA
(14 miles away)
Mia,6 months- 2 years
Mastiff
Santa Monica, CA
(14 miles away)
Herbie,3-7 years
Mastiff
Santa Monica, CA
(15 miles away)
Henry,3-7 years
Mastiff
Santa Monica, CA
(15 miles away)
Moose,3-7 years
Mastiff
Manhattan Beach, CA
(15 miles away)
About the Mastiff Breed
The English Mastiff is one of the largest and oldest dog breeds, with roots tracing back thousands of years. Originally bred as guardians and war dogs, modern Mastiffs are known for their calm temperament, deep loyalty, and surprising gentleness. They are often called "gentle giants" and form deep bonds with their families. Despite their imposing size, they are among the most laid-back breeds.
Mastiffs are low-energy dogs content with moderate daily exercise, a couple of short walks and rest time is sufficient. In LA, this means they don't need the intense hiking or running that many other breeds demand. Their calm nature makes them surprisingly good for suburban homes with yards, which are more common in LA than in denser East Coast cities.
Weight
120–230 lbs
Height
27–30 inches
Life Span
6–10 years
Temperament
Gentle, Loyal, Protective
Group
Working
Shedding
Moderate
Key Traits
Temperament
Mastiffs are calm, patient, and affectionate. Their relaxed temperament fits LA's laid-back culture perfectly. They are great with children and other pets when properly socialized. In LA's outdoor-oriented lifestyle, Mastiffs are happy to join you on a patio, at a park, or simply lounging in the backyard.
Exercise Needs
Two moderate walks per day (20–30 minutes each) is enough. Avoid strenuous hikes, Mastiffs are not built for LA's steep canyon trails. Flat, shaded walks in Griffith Park, along the beach boardwalk, or in neighborhood parks are ideal. Always walk during cooler hours to protect their joints and prevent overheating.
Health Considerations
Mastiffs are prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, and heart conditions. LA has excellent veterinary specialists, VCA West Los Angeles, ACCESS Specialty Animal Hospitals, and the UC Davis satellite clinics provide top-tier care for giant breeds. Heat-related illness is the most common emergency for LA Mastiffs, so prevention is critical.
Living Space
LA's housing market is more Mastiff-friendly than most major cities. Single-family homes with yards are common across neighborhoods like Silver Lake, Echo Park, Pasadena, and the Valley. Apartments with no breed or weight restrictions exist but require searching. A yard with shade is ideal for LA Mastiff ownership, giving your dog safe outdoor access without the heat risks of long walks.
Mastiffs & Los Angeles Weather
LA's mild climate is a mixed blessing for Mastiff owners. No harsh winters to worry about, but summer heat, especially in the valleys, is a serious health risk. Air quality during wildfire season is another factor unique to Southern California.
Winter
48°F to 68°FDec – Feb
LA winters are the easiest season for Mastiff owners. Mild temperatures are comfortable for walks at any time of day. Rain is the main concern, LA gets most of its annual rainfall in winter. Mastiffs generally dislike rain, and their large paw pads can slip on wet sidewalks. A waterproof coat helps on rainy days, but most winter days are dry and perfect for outdoor time.
Spring
55°F to 72°FMar – May
Spring is ideal for Mastiffs in LA. Comfortable temperatures, low humidity, and long daylight hours make this the best season for hikes in Griffith Park, walks along the LA River, and visits to dog-friendly beaches. This is shedding season, daily brushing helps manage fur in your home. Spring allergies can also affect Mastiffs, so watch for excessive scratching.
Summer
65°F to 85°FJun – Aug
LA summers are the biggest risk for Mastiffs. While coastal areas stay moderate, inland valleys like the San Fernando Valley and San Gabriel Valley regularly hit 100°F+. Heat is extremely dangerous for Mastiffs, their massive body retains heat and they overheat quickly. Walk only before 8 AM or after 7 PM, never on hot pavement, and always have water. Air conditioning is essential, not optional.
Fall
60°F to 80°FSep – Nov
Fall brings Santa Ana winds and the highest wildfire risk, which can severely affect air quality across LA. Poor air quality is dangerous for Mastiffs, their large lungs take in more polluted air. Monitor AQI daily and keep your Mastiff indoors when it exceeds 100. On clear fall days, temperatures are pleasant and outdoor time is comfortable. October through November is excellent for beach visits.
Owning a Mastiff in Los Angeles
Dog-Friendly Parks & Beaches
LA is a dog paradise. Runyon Canyon is iconic but too steep for Mastiffs, stick to the flat lower trails. Griffith Park offers miles of shaded, flat paths ideal for large breeds. For beaches, Rosie's Dog Beach in Long Beach and Leo Carrillo State Park allow off-leash dogs. The Sepulveda Basin Off-Leash Dog Park is one of the largest in the country at 42 acres, plenty of room for a Mastiff to roam.
LA Dog Regulations
LA County has no breed-specific legislation, Mastiffs are welcome throughout the city. All dogs must be licensed and rabies-vaccinated. LA's leash law requires a 6-foot maximum leash in public areas except in designated off-leash parks. LA also has a mandatory spay/neuter ordinance for most dogs, with exemptions for licensed breeders. Adoption from a shelter typically means your Mastiff is already spayed/neutered.
Housing Considerations
LA offers more housing options for Mastiff owners than most major cities. Single-family homes with yards are available across the Valley, Pasadena, South LA, and the Westside. Apartments with no weight restrictions exist in neighborhoods like Downtown LA, Arts District, and Culver City. LA's car culture means you'll need a vehicle large enough for a Mastiff, SUVs or hatchbacks with fold-down seats work best.
Cost of Ownership in LA
Budget $200–$350/month for food, $80–$150 for pet insurance, and $500–$800 annually for routine vet visits. LA vet costs are slightly above the national average. Dog walking services run $20–$35 per walk for large dogs. One unique LA cost: keeping your home cool. Running AC for a heat-sensitive Mastiff during summer can add $100–$200/month to your energy bill, especially in the Valley.
Adopt a Mastiff in Los Angeles
LA has one of the largest shelter systems in the country, and Mastiffs and Mastiff mixes regularly need homes. Adopting through LA Animal Services or local rescues typically costs $150–$500, and includes spay/neuter, vaccinations, and microchipping. Southern California also has active Mastiff breed rescues that serve the LA area.
Rescues & Adoption Centers in Los Angeles
Los Angeles has one of the largest rescue communities in the country. Here are the adoption centers in the LA area where you can find Mastiffs and other dogs available for adoption.
City of Los Angeles South LA Animal Shelter
Best Friends Pet Adoption Center - West LA
City of Los Angeles North Central Animal Shelter
City of Los Angeles West LA Animal Shelter
BraveDog Rescue
Lange Foundation
Wags and Walks
Angel City Pit Bulls
Dogs Without Borders
Westside German Shepherd Rescue of LA
Neapolitan And English Mastiff Rescue
Puppy and Pals Without Borders Rescue
Fur Baby Rescue
Animals in Need Rescue Network
I Stand With My Pack
League of Extraordinary Mutts
Dachshund Rescue of Los Angeles
Much Love Animal Rescue
Samson's Sanctuary Rescue
The Puppy Coalition
The Mutt Scouts
The Dawg Squad
Dog Coalition Los Angeles
spcaLA
Love Leo Rescue
Rescues Rock
The Real Bark
The Pawerful Rescue
Cool Paw Rescue
Buddy's Angels Rescue
Browse all adoption centers on GetBuddy to find rescues near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LA too hot for a Mastiff?
Coastal LA (Santa Monica, Venice, West LA) stays moderate year-round and is fine for Mastiffs. Inland areas (San Fernando Valley, Pasadena, Inland Empire) get extremely hot in summer and require extra caution, air conditioning, early morning walks only, and constant access to water. Thousands of Mastiffs live happily in LA with heat-conscious owners.
Can a Mastiff go to the beach in LA?
Yes, several LA-area beaches allow dogs. Rosie's Dog Beach in Long Beach is the most popular off-leash dog beach. Leo Carrillo in Malibu allows leashed dogs. Mastiffs generally enjoy wading in shallow water and the cool coastal temperatures are comfortable for them. Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best experience.
What about wildfire smoke and Mastiffs?
Wildfire smoke is a real concern for Mastiffs in LA. Their large lungs inhale more polluted air than smaller breeds. Monitor the AQI daily during fire season (typically September–November). Keep your Mastiff indoors with air purification when AQI exceeds 100. Limit outdoor time to brief bathroom breaks during smoky periods.
How much does it cost to adopt a Mastiff in LA?
LA Animal Services charges $122–$340 for dog adoptions. Breed-specific rescues typically charge $300–$500. This includes spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchipping, and a health check. Monthly ongoing costs run $400–$600 for food, insurance, and routine care in LA.
Where can I find Mastiffs for adoption in LA?
GetBuddy aggregates Mastiff listings from shelters and rescues across the LA metro area. LA Animal Services shelters, spcaLA, Best Friends in Mission Hills, and Wags & Walks regularly have large breeds available. Browse the listings above to see currently available Mastiffs near you.
Explore Other Breeds in Los Angeles
Looking for a different breed? Browse other dogs available for adoption in Los Angeles.
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