Citrus Heights, CA

Kid-Friendly Dogs for Adoption in Citrus Heights, CA: 22 Dogs Good with Children

Kid-Friendly Dogs up for adoption near Citrus Heights, CA

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Citrus Heights have 22 kid-friendly dogs up for adoption. Here are all 22, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.

Every dog on this page has been marked by their rescue as good with children, usually because they've lived with kids in a foster home.

1. Jack formerly Gomez

Puppy · Male · German Shepherd Dog · 15 mi from Citrus Heights

Hi, everybody! Guess what?! I've left my shelter name, Gomez, behind and am now going by Jack. I’m just 12 weeks old, and last week I left the shelter with my littermates to start a brand-new adventure with ShepHeroes! I have a lot to learn about this big, exciting world, so I’m going to need a little time to get my paws on the ground before I can tell you all about myself.After leaving the shelter, I spent a night at a foster home in Sacramento with Pumkin and Larry Munster, got a bath and nail trims, and then headed off to my next adventure in San Jose. Then I lived as the solo puppy good life with a whole tribe of friendly German Shepherds who welcomed me in! I even got to go on a pack walk, all safe and cozy in my foster mom's doggie backpack.

Read more about Jack formerly Gomez

My first foster home in SJ was for a few days, while I waited for my intended, and current, foster family to be ready to take me to their house. So I'm now living with a retriever and a ShepHeroes alum and a baby. I absolutely love snuggles and exploring everything around me! My meds helped me recover from kennel cough, which I caught at the shelter. I’ve got lots of growing, playing, and exploring ahead, and I’ll be back soon with more puppy news! Love,Your newest little ShepHeroes recruit

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Jack formerly Gomez fromNorCal German Shepherd Rescue dba ShepHeroesWest Sacramento, CA · listed Oct 22

2. Larry Munster

Puppy · Male · German Shepherd Dog · 15 mi from Citrus Heights

Hi, everybody! I’m just 12 weeks old, and I arrived at ShepHeroes with my littermates Pumkin and Jack, aka Gomez! We’re starting a brand-new adventure, and I’m pretty sure lots of exciting things are ahead.My foster family decided to call me Larry Munster, adding Larry to my shelter name. I’ve settled in, and I've even gone to my foster mom's office with her, so I’ll have more to share once I’ve had a chance to explore, play, and show everyone what makes me special. I love cuddles, have the softest coat per my foster, and love to follow her around the house. I'm working on potty training, crate training, and sleeping through the night.

Read more about Larry Munster

We spent our first night out of the shelter with a foster family, getting baths and desperately needed nail trims. After a good night's sleep with lots of playtime with each other and the resident shepherds, plus another foster dog, four-year-old Daisy, who watched over us like all good female shepherds. I adored my bath whereas my littermates weren't so sure it was a good thing. We met Daisy's forever family the morning we were getting back on the road to head to our next foster homes, as she was getting adopted.I'm the only puppy in my current foster home, and I love all the attention and snuggles. To grow, I'm taking lots of naps, as puppies need 16-18 hours of sleep. But I'll be seeing Pumkin et al. frequently for playdates. Stay tuned! My story is just beginning!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Larry Munster fromNorCal German Shepherd Rescue dba ShepHeroesWest Sacramento, CA · listed Oct 22

3. Pumkin

Puppy · Female · German Shepherd Dog · 15 mi from Citrus Heights

Guess who just arrived at ShepHeroes?! Hi, everyone! I’m a 12-week-old German Shepherd puppy, and I busted out of the shelter with my littermates, Jack (aka Gomez) and Larry Munster, to land in rescue! We’ve spent the last week settling in, so there’s lots more to share about our little puppy adventures. The three of us spent a night in a Sacramento foster home, waiting for our ride to San Jose the next day. Baths, nail trims - snuggles made those weird experiences better. Larry Munster enjoyed his bath, though. Oh, and about those names you might see floating around? Those were shelter-given names, and honestly, we hadn't bothered learning them! We hear one of the perks of landing in a foster home is that our foster families get to pick our rescue names.

Read more about Pumkin

How fun is that?! And in the spirit of Halloween, I kept my name Pumkin because I'm just a sweet little pumkin. I am brave, independent, and a steady explorer. I easily incorporate into new households with their shepherds and other dogs, steady for sure. I love attention and snuggles like all pups, but I will also take my toy and happily hang out in my pen area during the day or in my crate all night.My foster family has two resident shepherds, and extended family has a couple of corgis; we have regular playdates. I also got to take a stroller ride with my own personal driver during the Fall Festival; my driver said I was such a well-behaved pup. I didn't need to jump out or explore because people kept coming to say sweet things to me and pet me throughout our time there. Stay tuned, friends! I'll keep giving you updates as I get to go on more adventures.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Pumkin fromNorCal German Shepherd Rescue dba ShepHeroesWest Sacramento, CA · listed Oct 22

4. Mali

Puppy (4 months 28 days) · Female · Dachshund / Belgian Shepherd Malinois / Mixed · 7 mi from Citrus Heights

Meet Mali

A sweet, fully vaccinated, and spayed 5-month-old pup who is already house-trained and crate-trained. At just 10 lbs, this unique, short-legged girl is playful, great with people and other dogs, and ready to bring tons of fun to a loving family.

If interested in Reserving a Pup, Adoption, Fostering, or Donating contact Barbara Rescue coordinator for NorCal Freedom for Paws at (916) 582-2771

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Mali fromNorCal Freedom for PawsRancho Cordova, CA · listed Oct 16

5. Coraline

Puppy · Female · German Shepherd Dog · 15 mi from Citrus Heights

At just 12 weeks old, this adorable German Shepherd puppy traveled by car from the shelter with her two littermates, ready to begin her journey toward finding a forever family. Coraline has settled beautifully into her foster home, winning hearts with her joyful spirit, playful energy, and wonderfully steady temperament. She's curious about the world around her, loves discovering toys, and is blossoming into a delightful little companion.Coraline lives with resident shepherds, two cats, and three teens, and she's adapting to family life like a pro! She's learned to use the doggy door and is making great progress with potty training.

Read more about Coraline

She's already shown she can hold it, making house-training much easier, although she'll still need supervision and consistency as she grows. She also does well around the resident cats, leaving kitties alone with gentle reminders.This sweet girl loves being wherever her people are. She's an affectionate little cuddler who soaks up attention and enjoys being part of the action. As the day winds down, Coraline settles into her crate and sleeps a wonderful eight hours through the night!With her steady temperament, affectionate nature, and impressive progress with all the new things she's learning, Coraline is off to a fantastic start. On all her outings, she's a magnet for kids, and she responds gently to their excitement to meet a puppy. We can't wait to see her continue to blossom into the amazing companion she's meant to be.Coraline is looking for a family ready for all the fun, love, training, and adventures that come with raising a German Shepherd puppy. Could she be the perfect addition to your family?Her littermate Frankie was just adopted, and Rocket just relocated from San Jose to Sacramento while his regular foster family's out of town.Interested in learning more? Fill out an application, and we'll connect you. Have you checked out our YouTube channel? We would greatly appreciate your support by subscribing, liking, and commenting on the videos we share of our adoptable shepherds in action. You can also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and our newest Threads account, where we post plenty of news and updates about our shepherds.As a foster-based rescue, ShepHeroes always needs fosters. An overwhelming number of shepherds in our local shelters need our help for a fresh start. Would you share your home and part of your life to help shepherds find new families? You provide the love, and we'll provide everything else! Saying "yes" today truly saves a life. Complete this https://www.shepheroes.org/foster-form, and we'll be in touch ASAP! We appreciate your consideration.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Coraline fromNorCal German Shepherd Rescue dba ShepHeroesWest Sacramento, CA · listed Oct 15

6. Rocket

Puppy · Male · German Shepherd Dog · 15 mi from Citrus Heights

Rocket is joining his buddy, Joey, from 10 to 1 on Saturday, October 31st, at our booth on Q Street between 7th and 18th Streets in Sacramento for the annual Tricks for Treats hosted by Leash and Collar Pet Boutique. Meet Rocket! This charming 12-week-old puppy began his journey with two littermates, Frankie and Coraline, and has already shown remarkable resilience and spirit. While Frankie has since found her furever home, Rocket and Coraline are now ready for their own loving families.Rocket absolutely adores people and has a playful love for toys. He’s learning the ropes from the resident shepherd and one of our beloved alums, who are helping him settle in and become the best companion he can be.

Read more about Rocket

He's learned lots of skills such as sit, out, leave it, pee potty, place, and when tired, he will self-crate for a nap. He puts himself to bed in his crate at 8 pm, has a quick potty break at midnight, and sleeps until 6 am. With his irresistibly handsome looks and floppy ear tips—now perking up more each day—Rocket has truly blossomed. After good nutrition and TLC, he’s gaining weight, and his coat is starting to shine just like his siblings’. Watching him explore his foster home, enjoy the yard, and finally rest easy after his time on the streets and in the shelter has been a joy. He soaks up every bit of love from the resident shepherd, who can’t get enough of this puppy.When he’s not following his best buddy, the resident shepherd, he’s always ready for snuggles and kisses—he truly thrives on attention. He’s had several accident-free days, which have continued with reminders and guidance appropriate for his age, and he has no problem letting you know what’s on his mind, sharing his opinions in classic shepherd style.When Rocket’s foster family left for a preplanned vacation, he traveled to his next foster home in Sacramento, where he now lives with two shepherds and a cat. He’s already mastered the doggy door, respectfully ignores the senior cat, and absolutely loves his crate—especially when it’s filled with his growing pile of favorite toys. Rocket is excellent in the car, traveling for several hours while napping in his travel crate. He's also good on leash, taking short excursions around his neighborhood courtyard. While waiting for his new foster family, Rocket spent a couple of hours with new friends—including our adoptable Joey—and showed how steady and adaptable he is. He fit right in, playing with toys and even enjoying a game of tug with a senior alum.In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Rocket is proudly sporting a pink leash!Interested in learning more? Please submit an application, and we’ll reach out to chat about Rocket.Have you checked out our YouTube channel? We would greatly appreciate your support; please subscribe, like, and comment on the videos we share of our adoptable shepherds in action. You can also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and our newest Threads account, where we post plenty of news and updates about our shepherds.As a foster-based rescue, ShepHeroes always needs fosters. An overwhelming number of shepherds in our local shelters need our help to get a fresh start. Would you share your home and part of your life to help shepherds find new families? You provide the love, and we'll provide everything else! Saying "yes" today truly saves a life. Complete this https://www.shepheroes.org/foster-form, and we'll be in touch ASAP! We appreciate your consideration.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Rocket fromNorCal German Shepherd Rescue dba ShepHeroesWest Sacramento, CA · listed Oct 15

7. Nova

Adult (13 years 11 months) · Female · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 18 mi from Citrus Heights

Meet Nova, a darling senior dog ready for retirement! She's mellow, gets along with dogs, and loves ambling walks with her favorite humans. She's an overall easygoing girl with a lot of love left to give! Come in and meet with her today!

Interested in adopting? Visit our shelter during open hours and ask about Nova A066911

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Nova fromCity of Elk Grove Animal ServicesElk Grove, CA · listed Oct 7

8. Gus

Puppy · Male · Unknown breed / mixed · 7 mi from Citrus Heights

Meet Gus, a 5-month-old Shepherd mix who's as sweet and snuggly as they come! This brave boy is the ultimate heart-stealer, constantly seeking affection and wanting to be right by your side. While he's currently receiving care for a serious leg injury and awaiting a surgical consult, his loving spirit shines through every day. Gus is looking for a patient home where he can soak up all the cuddles he deserves while he heals. He is truly a special soul ready to be your loyal best friend! Check out more info and apply to adopt Gus at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_474eaf0ed5e9

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Gus fromThree Eye Blind Animal RescueRoseville, CA · listed Oct 5

9. Inchworm GREEN

Adult · Male · French Bulldog / Mixed (short coat) · 9 mi from Citrus Heights

COMING SOON!
This 35 lb bowling ball 2-3 yr old Frenchie we’ve named “Inchworm” wants you to know he has that blue-dog-Frenchie itchy skin — if you listen really closely you can hear him tell you “my back itches!!!”
He’s being treated for dry, flaky itchy skin and hairloss on his back near his tail
We expect him to be available for adoption soon and would like him to go to a home who either has experience with itchy dogs and keeping them itch free OR someone who can show us they have researched and have allllllllll the resources to manage a dog with itchy skin
Frenchies are known for being genetic dumpster fires and he will be looking for a home that can afford his future medical care without question. His only known issue is his dry, itchy skin but this breed can absolutely require more vet care than the average dog
He’s a bull(dog)-in-a-china-shop personality and seems to mean no harm but we’d really like him to meet all human and dog family members because his nicknames are CRASH and BULLDOZER and he’s a solid TUB of a dog. (He has not been cat-tested but would likely run over them)
(Like he’s probably fine with more solidly built children if they like being bowling pins as a hobby He means no harm)
We recommend him for other bowling-ball type dogs or solid dogs who are bigger than him
He’s fostered in the Sacramento area and will be entertaining suitors in a few weeks — beourpet@gmail.com
#RescueDogsRock #RescueIsMyFavoriteBreed #SecondChances #RescueDogs #AnimalRescue #adoptashelterpet #startastoryadopt #shelterpetlove #RescueDog #NorthernCalifornia

Read more about Inchworm GREEN

GENERAL INFO:
Housebroken?: Yes, we think so
Crate Trained?: Yes
Leash Trained?: Yes
Rides Well in Car?: Yes
Non-Shedding?: No
Good with cats?: Unknown
Good with dogs?: Yes
Qualifies for Seniors for Seniors?: no, regular adoption fee applies
Umbrella of Hope does not have any strict rules on ages of children because all children are different, but our best approximation is that this animal would do best with children over the age of 5
Umbrella of Hope is an all-volunteer, donation-run, non-profit animal rescue based out of Pittsburg, CA that rescues animals from local shelters, places them in private foster homes, provides them with needed medical care and then finds them new homes.
Also, ask us about our seniors for seniors program, where we adopt animals 5 years or older to qualified homes with a $5 donation as an adoption fee. All animals are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, treated for parasites and given any additional treatments (dental work, bloodwork etc) as recommended by our vet.
Adoptions to veterans of the US Armed Services are ALWAYS free to thank you for your service.
We thank Well Pet Vet Clinic for providing most of our veterinary services and give a special thanks to volunteer photographers Tanya, Barbara, Kristy, Christine, Teressa and Natalie.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
  • Special needs
Adopt Inchworm GREEN fromUmbrella of HopePittsburg, CA · listed Aug 30

10. Joey

Puppy · Male · German Shepherd Dog · 15 mi from Citrus Heights

Joey’s comeback story just keeps getting better! And he'll be hosting our table at Leash and Collar Sacramento's Annual Tricks for Treats event on Saturday, October 31st, from 10 am to 1 pm. Look for us on Q Street between 17th and 18th Streets. Joey’s world is getting bigger, and his happy personality is shining brighter every day! Eight weeks after his femur repair surgery, this resilient boy is enjoying short breaks from crate rest and rediscovering the fun of being a puppy. He loves his toys, has an impressive tug game, a wonderful recall, and an enthusiasm for treats!Joey had his first group lesson last week and also took a field trip to the feed store to check out all kinds of new smells.

Read more about Joey

And he was such a good boy, taking treats and learning to shake. Joey also went to Geisthaus Brewing Company for a Brewery Manners class with Wholistic Canine and was a super good boy at the Citrus Heights Food Plaza's Halloween event. He'll be back to low-key activities and crate confinement for a few days, but this time to recover from his neuter surgery. His surgical incision has healed, and he’s said goodbye to his e-cone. He’s also been practicing his vacation skills! Over Labor Day weekend, Joey joined his foster family for a getaway to Tahoe, where he rode beautifully in the car and enjoyed the mountain air from the deck. What a trooper!Joey’s journey began with a serious fracture of his right femur, broken into multiple fragments, along with an infected open wound. Thanks to the quick response of Hitchcock Road Animal Services, the generosity of our friends at @UCDavisFractureProgram, and a team of dedicated volunteers who arranged transport from Salinas to Davis in just hours, Joey got the urgent medical care he needed. Two plates were used to repair his femur, and he headed to his foster home on August 29 to begin his recovery.The road to healing called for strict crate rest, but Joey has made the most of his recovery. He’s mastered crate and potty training, discovered the joys of chew toys (especially while shedding his baby teeth!), and shown us just how much personality can shine through, even when a puppy has to take it easy.Now, as Joey has healed, we’re excited for everyone to meet this wonderful boy. He’s overcome a lot in his short life, and his future is looking brighter every day. His next big adventure? Finding a forever family who will love him as much as he deserves! Want to help Joey on his road to recovery? You can send toys and treats through our Chewy or Amazon wish lists, donate via Venmo at @shepheroes, or use the donate button next to his bio at shepheroes.org/adopt.Every bit of support helps Joey get one step closer to his happily ever after! We are very thankful for any support you can give as we just launched Ambra, aka Summer, to her forever home after 4 months with us while she healed from multiple surgeries. We continue to care for Otti, who has been with us for 9 months, has undergone two abdominal surgeries, and was recently diagnosed with EPI.Have you seen our YouTube channel? We would really appreciate your support by subscribing, liking, and commenting on our videos of adoptable shepherds in action. You can also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and our new Threads account, where we share lots of news and updates about our shepherds.Since ShepHeroes is a foster-based rescue, we always need more foster homes. Many shepherds in our local shelters need a fresh start. Would you open your home and share your life to help shepherds find new families? You provide the love, and we will take care of everything else. Saying "yes" today truly saves a life. Fill out the form at https://www.shepheroes.org/foster-form, and we will contact you soon. Thank you for considering it.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Joey fromNorCal German Shepherd Rescue dba ShepHeroesWest Sacramento, CA · listed Aug 28

11. Vector

Young · Male · Bordeaux · 7 mi from Citrus Heights

Vector is a gentle 1-year-old sweetheart who is ready to find his forever family! This social boy gets along wonderfully with people, other dogs, and even chickens. He's curious about cats and will win you over with those big puppy eyes whenever he wants a cuddle. Vector plays hard with his favorite toys, then sleeps even harder once he's tuckered out. He's already potty trained and has a truly kind spirit, making him the perfect addition to any home looking for a loyal friend. Check out more info and apply to adopt Vector at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_fc8783b8d455

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Vector fromThree Eye Blind Animal RescueRoseville, CA · listed Aug 25

12. Kit

Young · Female · American Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 7 mi from Citrus Heights

Meet Kit, a tiny adventurer with a huge heart! This feisty girl is already leading the way with her fearless and curious spirit. Whether she's investigating a new toy or exploring the great outdoors, Kit's silly antics are sure to keep you smiling. She is the perfect blend of play and affection; once her zoomies are done, she's ready to melt into your arms for endless belly rubs and snuggles. Kit is a charming little firecracker ready to bring a lifetime of love to her forever home! Check out more info and apply to adopt Kit at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_480f57847c9c

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Kit fromThree Eye Blind Animal RescueRoseville, CA · listed Aug 25

13. Duckie

Adult · Male · Cane Corso Mastiff · 7 mi from Citrus Heights

Duckie is a loving, loyal, and deeply people-oriented one-year-old boy. He wants to stay close to his person and thrives on companionship. He is calm, quiet, and low-barking; excellent with commands and recall; great on leash; potty trained, neutered, vaccinated, and crate trained. With other dogs, Duckie is mostly indifferent-he generally prefers humans over dog interaction. Check out more info and apply to adopt Duckie at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_446675bac5344082

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Duckie fromThree Eye Blind Animal RescueRoseville, CA · listed Aug 25

14. Tequila

Puppy · Female · German Shepherd Dog / Mixed (medium coat) · 22 mi from Citrus Heights

ehoming This is a courtesy post - This dog is not at the shelter
Young German Shepherd Tequila Looking for a Loving Home
Tequila is a beautiful 9 month old German Shepherd with a brown coat and an affectionate, playful personality. She is a friendly young dog who loves being around people and is eager to play. Due to housing circumstances, her owner is looking for a loving home where she can continue to grow and thrive.
About Tequila: • 9 months old • Female German Shepherd • Brown coat • Spayed • Current on vaccines
Personality and Behavior: • Friendly with children • Playful and energetic • Loves attention and interaction • Gets excited when visitors arrive and enjoys playing with them • No history of biting
Training and Home Life: • Potty training status unknown • Not crate trained • Has lived both indoors and outdoors • Has lived with dogs, children, rabbits, and chickens • Allows people to take food and toys without issue
Health and Care: • Has not been seen by a veterinarian
Interested in Tequila? Contact: Ana (916) 470-7703 anatoledo1@yahoo.com
Tequila is a happy, energetic young German Shepherd who would do well with a family that can provide regular exercise, continued training, and plenty of love.

Read more about Tequila

She is at a wonderful age to bond with a new family and continue learning.
This dog is being rehomed by her owner. Yolo County Animal Services is assisting as a courtesy and has not evaluated this dog. All information provided has been supplied by the owner and Yolo County Animal Services makes no guarantees regarding health, behavior, or temperament.

  • Good with kids
  • House-trained
Adopt Tequila fromYolo County Animal Services ShelterWoodland, CA · listed Jul 31

15. Kyle

Senior · Male · Australian Kelpie / Terrier / Mixed · 7 mi from Citrus Heights

Say hello to Kyle! Kyle is an approximately 10-year-old sweetheart with so much love to give. This friendly boy is truly the full package - he's great with people, kids, dogs, and even cats! Don't let his age fool you: Kyle still enjoys his walks, has plenty of energy, and loves being part of the action. He's affectionate, gentle, kind, and has the sweetest personality. Kyle is the kind of dog who just wants to be near his people and share his love. He would make a wonderful companion for someone looking for a loyal, loving best friend. Kyle is such a nice boy, and he deserves a home where he can be cherished the way he deserves. Could Kyle be the perfect addition to your family? Check out more info and apply to adopt Kyle at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_b5974e44e4cf

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Kyle fromThree Eye Blind Animal RescueRoseville, CA · listed Jun 9

16. Lilith

Adult · Female · American Staffordshire Terrier / American Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 7 mi from Citrus Heights

Meet Lilith, the precious girl with a literal pep in her step! Watching her walk is like seeing a happy little dance, and her rambunctious spirit is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. This cuddle princess is a social butterfly who loves everyone she meets, including kids, other dogs, and even cats! She's already making great strides with her potty training and is doing wonderful with kennel training too. Whether she's playing or snuggling, Lilith is a true joy who is ready to dance her way into your heart. Check out more info and apply to adopt Lilith at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_319fda940dbf

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Lilith fromThree Eye Blind Animal RescueRoseville, CA · listed May 7

17. Carson

Senior · Male · Beagle / Mixed · 7 mi from Citrus Heights

Meet Carson, the charming 7-year-old Beagle mix who proves that the best things really do come in small packages! This handsome gentleman is a professional sniffer and a world-class companion who is just the right size for any adventure. At his perfect age, Carson has mastered the art of being both active and laid-back. Whether he's following his nose on a sunny stroll or curled up into a cozy ball for a nap, his gentle spirit and wagging tail will melt your heart and fill your home with joy. Check out more info and apply to adopt Carson at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_e8526f498494

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Carson fromThree Eye Blind Animal RescueRoseville, CA · listed May 7

18. Ripp

Young · Male · Shepherd / Mixed · 7 mi from Citrus Heights

Meet Ripp, a gentle soul with a heart of pure gold! At just one year old, this sweet boy is a professional wallflower looking for someone to help him bloom. While he can be a bit timid at first, his quiet, observant nature makes him a wonderful companion for a peaceful home. Ripp's soft eyes and shy tail wags are sure to melt your heart once he knows he's safe. If you have a patient heart and a cozy spot on the couch, Ripp is ready to become your most loyal, devoted best friend forever. Check out more info and apply to adopt Ripp at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_56fbdc1d39fa4485

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Ripp fromThree Eye Blind Animal RescueRoseville, CA · listed May 7

19. Otti

Puppy · Female · German Shepherd Dog · 15 mi from Citrus Heights

Meet Otti — Our Special Little Girl with a Whole Lot of Shepherd Love! We’re excited to announce that Otti will be joining Joey and Rocket at our booth this Saturday in Sacramento for the Tricks for Treats event, hosted by Leash and Collar Pet Boutique! All three are wonderful, adoptable shepherds looking for their forever homes. Stop by to meet them on Q Street between 7th and 8th Streets from 10 am to 1 pm.Some dogs come into your life and steal your heart. Others come along and teach you that a little extra love, patience, and understanding can make all the difference. Our sweet Otti has done both! Otti’s journey with us began when we picked her up from the shelter at an estimated 4 weeks old.

Read more about Otti

She was so tiny she could fit in the palm of your hand, with barely enough ears to see! She looked more like a baby otter than a German Shepherd puppy, and just like that, our little Otti got her name.From those first tiny puppy days, we’ve loved watching her grow, learn, play, and develop into a sweet, silly, affectionate girl with a personality all her own.By about 4 months old, we started to realize Otti was going to be a little different. She developed a fascination with chasing her tail that went well beyond the adorable puppy-spinning phase. And when I say spinning, I mean this girl looked like a load of laundry on the spin cycle! Knowing she might need some extra help, we worked with the wonderful behavioral team at UC Davis to better understand her needs and learn how to give her the happiest, most fulfilling life possible.With their guidance, daily medication, consistency, and positive redirection, we’ve learned ways to help Otti settle and refocus. She still thinks her tail is pretty fascinating, but a yummy treat, a good bone to chew, or a little distraction can help her redirect that energy.And here’s the beautiful thing about Otti: her extra needs are only one small piece of who she is.This girl has SO much love to give!She’s a true German Shepherd in every sense of the word. A loyal, loving, Velcro girl who wants to be wherever her people are. If you’re moving from room to room, you can bet Otti isn’t far behind. She likes to keep her people within eyesight because, heaven forbid, something exciting happens without her! She absolutely loves visitors and welcomes opportunities for attention and affection. She enjoys playing with our pack, chasing after our dogs during fetch, and turning a simple game into a full-blown case of the zoomies!And when the excitement settles? She’s more than happy to curl up next to you for a good snuggle and nap.A few more things that make Otti pretty darn wonderful: Walks nicely on a leash and enjoys exploring with her people. Crate trained and sleeps through the night. Loves her nighttime cuddles and will happily take every extra minute of snuggle time you’re willing to give before heading to bed. Enjoys an occasional car ride and being included in life’s little adventures. Loves playing fetch, romping with other dogs, and spending time with her people. Has a sweet, affectionate personality and a whole lot of enthusiasm for life!Around 7 months old, we noticed something else about our girl. She seemed to have stopped growing. At first, we thought she might just be a petite little Shepherd, but when her weight also stopped increasing, we wanted to make sure nothing more was going on.We requested bloodwork and discovered Otti has a pancreatic disorder that prevents her body from properly absorbing the nutrients from her food. The good news? We had an answer and a way to help her!Otti now receives a digestive enzyme powder mixed into her meals to help her absorb the nutrients she needs. And WOW, what a difference we’ve already seen!In just over a month, she’s gained more than 10 pounds, grown a couple of inches taller, and her coat is becoming beautifully shiny. Watching her little body finally get the nutrients it needs has been such a wonderful part of her journey. Our sweet girl may require

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Otti fromNorCal German Shepherd Rescue dba ShepHeroesWest Sacramento, CA · listed May 6

20. Timmy

Young · Male · Boxer / Husky / Mixed · 7 mi from Citrus Heights

Meet Timmy, a wiggly 8-month-old Boxer with a heart of gold and energy to spare! This smart boy already knows sit, stay, down, and shake, especially if deli turkey or peanut butter is involved. Timmy is a social butterfly who loves making new human friends on outdoor adventures, usually while proudly carrying his favorite plush duck. After a day of play, he transforms into a world-class snuggler who will happily crawl into your lap. If you want a loyal, affectionate best friend, Timmy is your guy! Check out more info and apply to adopt Timmy at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_dfddc1cf87ec

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Timmy fromThree Eye Blind Animal RescueRoseville, CA · listed May 5

21. Darla

Young · Female · American Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 7 mi from Citrus Heights

Meet Darla, a five-month-old sweetheart who is ready to find her forever family! This precious girl is the perfect blend of puppy playfulness and gentle affection. Darla has a heart of gold and is already ahead of the curve with her potty training, making her a dream addition to any household. Whether she's curling up for a cozy nap or greeting you with a wagging tail, her loving personality shines through everything she does. If you're looking for a loyal best friend, Darla is your girl! Check out more info and apply to adopt Darla at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_b739cfd0c9a64a81

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Darla fromThree Eye Blind Animal RescueRoseville, CA · listed May 5

22. Denver

Young · Male · American Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 7 mi from Citrus Heights

Meet Denver, the puppy sweetheart who is ready to find his forever home! This charming boy is the definition of a 'good boy,' already boasting impressive potty training skills and a heart of gold. Denver is a true social butterfly who gets along wonderfully with both people and other animals, making him the perfect addition to any family. Whether he's offering gentle snuggles or playing with his furry friends, his warm personality shines through in everything he does. Check out more info and apply to adopt Denver at www.rescuesupportkit.com/pet/pet_a2803c2e83f94846

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Denver fromThree Eye Blind Animal RescueRoseville, CA · listed May 5

Adopting a dog with children in Citrus Heights

Bring the whole family to meet the dog before you adopt, and ask the rescue how the dog behaves around children your kids' ages.

Teach children to let the dog come to them, to stroke gently, and to leave the dog alone while it's eating or sleeping. Give the dog a bed or crate of their own to retreat to, and always supervise young children with a new dog.

Relaxed adult dogs are often a better match for young children than puppies, which jump up, nip and chew while they learn.

Rescues with kid-friendly dogs near Citrus Heights

Questions about adopting kid-friendly dogs in Citrus Heights

How many kid-friendly dogs are up for adoption in Citrus Heights?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Citrus Heights, California, have 22 kid-friendly dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a kid-friendly dog in Citrus Heights?

The rescues with the most kid-friendly dogs near Citrus Heights right now are Three Eye Blind Animal Rescue (Roseville, CA), NorCal German Shepherd Rescue dba ShepHeroes (West Sacramento, CA) and NorCal Freedom for Paws (Rancho Cordova, CA). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.

What kind of dog is best with kids?

A calm, patient dog that the rescue has seen around children. Adult dogs are often easier than puppies with young kids, since their personalities are known and they play less roughly.

Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a dog may have been adopted since this page was updated.