Kid-Friendly Dogs for Adoption in Salinas, CA: 10 Dogs Good with Children
By Dogs of the Day · Updated

Rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Salinas have 10 kid-friendly dogs up for adoption. Here are all 10, 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.
Not in Salinas? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Daisy
Young (3 years) · Female · Dachshund / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 42 mi from Salinas






Meet Daisy!
At just 28 lbs, Daisy is a little bundle of sweetness with a big heart! She’s approximately 2–3 years old, and while her breed is anyone’s guess, her wonderful personality is no mystery.
Daisy is a friendly, social, easygoing girl who loves being around her people. She’s gentle and relaxed with both people and dogs, and has done wonderfully with the dogs she’s met so far. She’s even discovering the fun of playing tug-of-war with her canine friends!
Read more about Daisy
She’s affectionate without being demanding and loves being close to her humans. Belly rubs, cuddles, doggy kisses (she might even try to sneak you a little kiss on the lips!), and simply hanging out together are right up her alley.
Daisy enjoys walks, car rides, running at the park, and rolling around in the grass. She’s also a lovely houseguest: fully potty trained, crate trained, sleeps well through the night, and is beginning to enjoy playing independently with her toys.
She’s not particularly food-motivated and would much rather have your company, but peanut butter, cheese, or a little broth on her kibble can certainly get her attention!
And good news for cat lovers: Daisy has been tested with cats in a home environment and passed her cat test!
Daisy would do well in an active household, with or without another friendly dog. She’s an adaptable, affectionate girl who would love a family to call her own.
If you’re looking for a sweet, gentle, 28-lb companion who will happily share your walks, your couch, and probably a few kisses, Daisy might just be your girl! ❤️
Please help us learn more about you & your household by submitting an application : www.tinyurl.com/AdoptMeNow
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
2. Toffee
Young (7 days) · Female · Cattle Dog (short coat) · 12 mi from Salinas


Howdy my name is Toffee im 7 months old Cattle Dog with beautiful chocolate coat and a white line on my face. I like going for a walk, I love cuddle on couch, pi1ĺim a lap Dog and o hope you will like my cuddles? Im great Dog that just wants a home to call my own. If you want to start the process go to our website at www.woofden.org and fill an adoption application and then my foster home will give you a call for any questions and states what is the next step is.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
3. Zoey
Young (1 year) · Female · Border Collie · 12 mi from Salinas





Meet Zoey!
Breed: Border Collie
Age: 1 year old
Weight: ~30 lbs (Full grown! Perfect medium size)
Color: Classic Black & White with breathtaking blue eyes
About Zoey
Hi there! My name is Zoey, and I am a 1-year-old Border Collie with striking blue eyes and a personality to match! At around 30 pounds, I’m fully grown—making me the ideal size whether you live in an apartment, a cozy condo, or a house with a yard.
My Favorite Things:
Outdoor Adventures: I love going on hikes, runs, and tagging along on everyday errands with my foster family.
Read more about Zoey
☕ Downtime & Cozy Vibes: After an active day, I’m all about relaxing! I love "sipping" tea (figuratively, of course!), lounging around, and cuddling up next to you on the couch for a Netflix or Hulu movie night.
I am the perfect blend of an active partner for outdoor fun and a affectionate companion for quiet evenings at home.
Ready to Make Zoey Part of Your Family?
I can’t wait to meet my forever family! If you’d like to learn more about me or schedule a meet-and-greet:
Apply to Adopt: Fill out an Adoption Questionnaire at www.woofden.org (click on Adopt).
Email Us: rescue.woofden@gmail.com
Call My Foster Parent: 669-454-2046
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
4. Kenzie
Adult · Female · Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 42 mi from Salinas





Meet Kenzie (aka Lyngcha) – A Brave Little Soul Looking for Her Best Friend ❤️
Some dogs wear their hearts on their sleeves. Kenzie who her fosters have been calling Lyngcha had to learn it was safe to have one.
When Kenzie first arrived in foster care, she was completely shut down. She spent weeks hiding in her crate and was too frightened to interact with people or even go outside during the day. Watching her slowly learn to trust has been one of the most rewarding journeys we’ve ever witnessed.
Today, Lyngcha is a happy, playful, affectionate young girl who greets each day with a wagging tail and an adorable smile.
Read more about Kenzie
She absolutely
loves other dogs
and truly thrives with a confident canine companion. Whether she’s wrestling, playing tug-of-war, following her doggy friends around the house, or snuggling up beside them, having another friendly dog helps her feel safe and brings out her joyful personality.
Lyngcha is also very food motivated, making her eager to learn. She’s already picking up basic commands and is excited to keep learning with her future family.
She loves going for walks and approaches every adventure with puppy-like enthusiasm, taking in all the exciting smells and sights. New environments can still be a little overwhelming at first, but with patience, encouragement, and another dog by her side, her confidence continues to blossom.
Once Lyngcha bonds with her people, she’s an absolute sweetheart. She loves curling up close, resting her head on you, and soaking up affection. Her foster family even nicknamed her
“Froggie”
because of her adorable little hops whenever she’s excited—especially at mealtime!
Lyngcha has never shown any aggression. She’s simply a gentle soul who needs a little time to feel safe before showing you just how loving she truly is.
Lyngcha’s Ideal Home
• A patient family that will let her settle in at her own pace.
• A confident, playful resident dog to help her continue building confidence.
• Daily walks, lots of love, and plenty of cuddle time.
• A home that understands shy dogs and celebrates every little victory.
The frightened girl who once hid in a crate has transformed into a loving companion with so much life ahead of her. She may not run into your arms on day one—but if you give her your patience and your heart, she’ll give you hers forever.
If you’re looking for a loyal best friend and believe that the greatest love stories are worth waiting for, Lyngcha just might be your perfect match.
We’d love for you to meet Lyngcha!
If you’ve been thinking about opening your heart and home to a new furry family member, we’d love to learn more about you and your household. Please fill out our adoption application, and let’s see if you and Lyngcha might be a wonderful match. ❤️
www.url.com/adoptmenow
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
5. Wendy
Young (4 years) · Female · Chihuahua / Italian Greyhound / Mixed (short coat) · 49 mi from Salinas





Wendy is the cuddliest little love bug!
She’s super sweet, smart, playful, and happiest when she can curl up in someone’s lap. She loves playing with other playful dogs, but when playtime is over, she’s more than ready for cuddle time.
Energy Level? Medium - High
House trained? Working on it. Wendy is still having some accidents in the house, particularly after playing. Seems potty pad trained
Describe how they are on leash? Very good.
Describe how they are with other dogs? Wendy loves to play with other playful dogs.
Have they been around cats or other animals? How were they? She was fine meeting Dusty the cat.
Read more about Wendy
Commands they know? She’s learning “sit.”
What are their favorite things? Being on someone’s lap!
What do they need to work on? Continuing to work on house training.
How are they when left alone? How long have they been left alone? Wendy does well when left alone, either in her crate or out. She may cry a little at first but settles down.
Where do they sleep? In her crate.
What is their ideal home? Wendy would be happy anywhere she has a lap to cuddle up on! She loves playing with the resident dog, so a playful canine friend could be fun for her, but what she really wants is a person to be close to. She’s perfectly happy snoozing on a lap while you work at the computer or relax on the couch.
What is their meal schedule and what are they eating? She eats 1/3 cup of dry food including a wet food topper, twice a day.
The Adoption fee is $325.
For adoption consideration or to meet our dogs
, please complete our online adoption application at
www.everypetsdream.org/adopt
. W
e will have everything we need to know to call you back and set up an appointment. Follow us: Facebook and Instagram
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
6. Buddy Boy
Senior (13 years 8 months) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 49 mi from Salinas




Buddy is a happy, spunky little guy with lots of personality! He tends to ignore other dogs and isn’t a big fan of cats, so he would be happy as an only pet or could potentially live with other calm dogs. Once Buddy warms up, he bonds strongly with his people and loves following them everywhere. He’s a great little car companion, loves being held, and is always up for some cuddles. With new people, Buddy likes to make his own decisions. Sometimes he needs a little time to warm up, while other times he decides he likes someone right away!
Read more about Buddy Boy
Energy Level? Medium
House trained? Yes
Describe how they are on leash? Good
Describe how they are with other dogs? Good
Have they been around cats or other animals? How were they? Buddy doesn’t care for cats but has not been aggressive with them. He has chased them, though, so a cat-free home would likely be best.
Commands they know? Sit, stay, no, go potty
What are their favorite things? Food and cuddles!
What do they need to work on? Nothing really. He’s a good boy!
How are they when left alone? How long have they been left alone? He does just fine when left home alone.
Where do they sleep? In bed, of course!
What is their ideal home? Buddy would love a person or family who is home often, wants a little companion by their side, and is ready to spoil him with lots of love and cuddles.
The Adoption fee is $325.
For adoption consideration or to meet our dogs
, please complete our online adoption application at
www.everypetsdream.org/adopt
. W
e will have everything we need to know to call you back and set up an appointment. Follow us: Facebook and Instagram
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
- Special needs
7. Banks
Young (1 year) · Male · Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler / Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 12 mi from Salinas



Banks 1 years old Neutered Male
Read more about Banks
Banks 1 year old Neutered Male Banks the Lovable Pit mixed, my weight is around 40 lbs. My breed is a Heeler and Pit terrier mixed and age is at 1 year old. I loved my foster humans plus other dogs my size nothing toy size and no cats. My story begin before the shelter found me my owners abandoned me in my house and left me there to die then the shelter got me I was scared and afraid didn't know what was going on. Now I'm happy gaining weight playing and more. I'm Crate, House and Leashed trained. My favorite store is Tractor Supply Store and of course Dutch Brothers for my Pup Cup. I'm currently on rabies vaccine and others vaccine. I'm neutered, dewormed and up to date on Flea and treatment. When I came from the shelter I was very skinny and afraid Now in rescue putting weight on one day at a time it is not going to be fast grain it's going to be slow and steady. I do love the beach, going on different trails plus more. I just need a loving and great family to treat me as me. I hope we can meet so I can show you how loving I am. So the next step is the best one knowing how to adopt me for your very own 1 adopt questionnaire through woofden.org Wait for a phone interview 3. Meet/greet at a park 4.finalized the adoption home check adoption fee.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
8. Poppy Seed
Young (2 years) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 42 mi from Salinas





Poppy Seed is a sweet, smart, athletic girl who's a little shy with strangers at first, but given space, time, and a few treats, she'll warm up to you soon enough.
She's a wonderful communicator and will offer a soft growl when she needs space, which is just her polite way of asking for a minute. Once she's warmed up to you at her own pace, she's all in. Affectionate, playful, and convinced she deserves a seat at the dinner table. She already knows "sit," is learning "down," gives the gentlest "paw," walks great on leash, and loves her crate as a cozy, safe space.
Read more about Poppy Seed
Poppy will do best in a home with older kids or adults who are committed to teaching her simple and useful cues and life skills throughforce-free, positive-reinforcement training methods. Training is not just for her. It's for humans too. Using positive reinforcement and force-free methods, you'll build real trust together, and she'll learn that responding to your cues is rewarding and fun.
Pair that with the right enrichment, snuffle mats, food puzzles, and scent games where she sniffs out hidden treats, and you've got a recipe for a confident, calmer pup. All that sniffing and foraging settles her nerves, every little win boosts her confidence, and problem-solving alongside you deepens your bond.
She's an athletic adventure buddy who loves romping with other dogs, playing fetch, and then happily curls up for snuggles afterward. She'll bark at odd sounds like any good watchdog, but settles right back down once you've checked it out. If you're looking for a thoughtful, loving companion who'll grow more confident with you by her side, Poppy Seed is your girl.
If you like to meet Poppy, please help us learn more about you and your household by filling out our online application: www.tinyurl.com/AdoptMeNow
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
9. Maisy
Adult (8 years 2 months) · Female · Chihuahua / Dachshund / Mixed (medium coat) · 49 mi from Salinas



Maisy
is an incredibly sweet, affectionate dog who is a joy to have around. She loves being part of whatever you're doing and quickly wins people over with her fun, social personality.
Energy Level?
Medium. Maisy has bursts of playful "mountain goat" energy and enjoys exploring, but she's equally happy relaxing with a sunny spot for a nap.
House-trained?
Mostly. Maisy does well about going outside to potty but has had some accidents on the rugs
, so her foster has found it easiest to keep those picked up while she continues to build good habits.
Read more about Maisy
Describe how they are on leash?
Maisy walks well on leash and enjoys getting out for walks and adventures.
Describe how they are with other dogs?
When meeting new dogs, Maisy may bark or lunge initially, but once she has a chance to settle in and become comfortable, she does well and enjoys canine companionship.
Have they been around cats or other animals? How were they?
Yes. Maisy has lived with a cat, whom she happily ignores, and she gets along very well with another dog in her foster home.
Commands they know?
Maisy is still learning her basic commands and is currently working on "sit," "off," and "quiet." She's eager to learn with positive reinforcement.
What are their favorite things?
Attention, affection, affection, affection,
food (especially treats!), walks, and spending time with her people. She also enjoys social outings after she's had a little time to check out her surroundings.
What do they need to work on?
Maisy is continuing to learn her basic manners and commands. Like many curious dogs, she'll occasionally help herself to shoes or laundry if they're left within reach, so she'll benefit from continued training, puppy proofing, and management.
How are they when left alone? How long have they been left alone?
Maisy does well when left alone. She is crated for up to four hours at a time, typically no more than a couple of days each week, and handles it well.
Where do they sleep?
Maisy sleeps comfortably in her crate.
What is their ideal home?
Maisy is a wonderfully adaptable dog who would fit into many different types of homes. She has done well with dogs and cats, and while she hasn't been around children yet, her sweet, social nature suggests she could do well with a family willing to give her a proper introduction. Whether it's a single person, a couple, or a family, Maisy will thrive with people who enjoy including her in their daily lives and can provide moderate exercise, continued training, and lots of love. She's an easygoing, affectionate companion who forms strong bonds and will make a wonderful addition to a lucky family.
The Adoption fee is $325.
For adoption consideration or to meet our dogs
, please complete our online adoption application at
www.everypetsdream.org/adopt
. W
e will have everything we need to know to call you back and set up an appointment. Follow us: Facebook and Instagram
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
10. Kiwi
Adult (3 years 4 months) · Female · Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 42 mi from Salinas





Meet 3+ year old Kiwi! FOSTER TO ADOPT
Kiwi is a sweet, affectionate bully mix with a playful streak and a heart full of love for her people. Tennis balls are the pinnacle of canine joy as far as she's concerned, and she'll happily fetch one for you (though "drop it" is still under negotiation). When she's not playing, she's nuzzling up close for quality cuddle time.
Read more about Kiwi
She's adjusting beautifully to indoor life. She's figured out the doggie door for potty breaks, isn't destructive around the house, and enjoys her growing collection of plush toys, chews, and food puzzles. She shares her treasures without fuss and settles nicely in a crate when someone's home. A few things she's still working on: resisting the urge to attempt a crate escape when left alone, and accepting that snacks left on counters are not, in fact, generous offerings from the universe. Counter surfing is her sport of choice, so kitchen vigilance is a must.
Kiwi is a reliable alert barker, letting you know about doors and footsteps like a small furry doorbell. Out in the world, she's friendly with people and other dogs, loves her car rides, and is wonderful on beach and trail adventures.
If you're looking for a loving, playful companion who's eager to learn new and useful life skills through force-free and positive reinforcement training methods, then she's ready to give you her whole heart.
if you're interested to meet Kiwi, please help us learn more about you and your household by filling out our online application www.tinyurl.com/AdoptMeNow .. Foster to Adopt is an option
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
Adopting a dog with children in Salinas
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 Salinas
- One Planet RescueSan Jose, CA · 4 kid-friendly dogs above
- WoofDenRescueSan Juan Bautista , ca · 3 kid-friendly dogs above
- Every Pet's DreamSanta Clara, CA · 3 kid-friendly dogs above
Questions about adopting kid-friendly dogs in Salinas
How many kid-friendly dogs are up for adoption in Salinas?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Salinas, California, have 10 kid-friendly dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a kid-friendly dog in Salinas?
The rescues with the most kid-friendly dogs near Salinas right now are One Planet Rescue (San Jose, CA), WoofDenRescue (San Juan Bautista , ca) and Every Pet's Dream (Santa Clara, 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.