Kid-Friendly Dogs for Adoption in The Villages, FL: 26 Dogs Good with Children
By Dogs of the Day · Updated

Rescues and shelters within 50 miles of The Villages have 26 kid-friendly dogs up for adoption. Here are all 26, 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 The Villages? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Joy
Adult (7 years 11 months) · Female · Catahoula Leopard Dog / Labrador Retriever / Mixed (short coat) · 46 mi from The Villages


Joy is a sweet 7-year-old Catahoula mix looking for a second chance at a forever home! This lovely girl has so much love to give and would make a wonderful addition to a lucky family.
Joy is great with other dogs, walks nicely on a leash, and is potty trained. She also grew up around children, so she’s no stranger to family life!
Joy is looking for a new home through absolutely no fault of her own. Her previous owner experienced medical issues and could no longer care for her. Now, this sweet girl is hoping someone will open their heart and home to her.
If you’re looking for a loving, well-mannered companion, Joy might just be your girl!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
2. Hazel
Puppy · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages




At just 6 months old and weighing a petite 10 pounds, Hazel is a little bundle of sweetness, fun, and puppy love! This adorable Chihuahua mix has a heart as big as her personality. She is super sweet, playful, and full of energy, always ready for a little fun, adventure, or a chance to soak up some love and attention.Hazel has a wonderful, loving nature and will happily fill your days with puppy kisses, tail wags, and endless smiles. She's at that perfect age to learn, grow, and make wonderful memories with her forever family.If you're looking for a sweet, playful little companion to bring happiness and love into your life, Hazel might just be your perfect match! PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz.
Read more about Hazel
We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $400 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
3. Margaret
Adult · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Bulldog / Mixed (short coat) · 17 mi from The Villages



Margaret knows a little German, Spanish, and English. We’re hoping her next favorite words are “Let’s go home.”
At approximately 6–10 years old and 59 pounds, Margaret has years of experience being part of a household. Her previous owner shared that she lived indoors with adults and children ages 2–8, got along with the cats she lived with, and usually slept in bed with her people.
Her former family also described a love of toys and some very specific snack favorites: frozen peanut butter treats, ice cubes, and blueberries! Those familiar pleasures could be a lovely way to help her settle into a new routine.
Read more about Margaret
Margaret previously shared her home with other dogs. Talk with shelter staff about introductions to any dogs in your home so Margaret can find comfortable companionship.
With her brown eye patch and cheerful expression, this lovely girl has plenty of charm. Come meet Margaret and give her the chance to be someone’s much-loved family dog again.
She is spayed, microchipped, heartworm tested, and vaccinated.
Adoption fees are WAIVED FOR THE PUMPKINS, PAWS & FOREVER HOMES PROMOTION!
Citrus County Animal Services
4030 S. Airport Rd., Inverness, FL
Tuesday–Saturday, 10am–5pm (closed 1–2pm)
Extended hours Thursday until 7pm
Margaret • ID# 61961100
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
4. Manolo
Adult · Male · French Bulldog / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages



Get ready to fall in love with Manolo! This 36-pound Frenchie mix is one big bundle of love, fun, and happiness packed into one adorable, lovable meatball of a boy! Manolo is super sweet, affectionate, playful, and full of energy. He has a sparkling personality that lights up a room and a happy-go-lucky spirit that makes him impossible to resist. Whether he’s playing, soaking up attention, or simply spending time with his favorite people, Manolo brings his own special kind of magic wherever he goes.This handsome boy has so much love to give and so much personality to share. If you’re looking for a fun-loving, happy companion who will fill your days with laughter, affection, and plenty of smiles, Manolo might just be your perfect match! Manolo is ready to find his forever family and share all the love packed into his adorable little meatball self.
Read more about Manolo
Could that be you? PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz. We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $400 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
5. Bram
Adult · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages




Get ready to fall in love with Bram! This adorable 16-pound, one-and-a-half-year-old Chihuahua mix is full of love, fun, and personality! Bram is a super sweet boy who absolutely loves being around people. He’s energetic, playful, affectionate, and has a loving personality that will steal your heart in no time. And did we mention he’s kissable? This little guy is ready to share plenty of love and smooches with his special someone! Bram is at that perfect age where he’s ready for adventures, playtime, and making wonderful memories with his forever family. Whether you’re enjoying some fun together or simply spending time side by side, Bram will be happiest just being part of your world.
Read more about Bram
If you’re looking for a sweet, loving companion who will fill your days with kisses, laughter, and endless affection, Bram is your guy! He’s ready to find his forever home and give his whole heart to the family lucky enough to call him theirs. Could it be you? PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz. We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $350 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
6. Raven
Adult · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages



At just 8 pounds, Raven is a tiny bundle of sweetness with a heart full of love! This adorable Chihuahua mix is a laid-back little girl who loves nothing more than cuddling up in your lap and soaking up all the love you have to give. If you’re looking for a sweet, snuggly companion to share quiet moments and cozy days with, Raven might just be your perfect match!Raven has been treated for mange, and while she may not have her hair right now, it could grow back with time. The wonderful news is that she is 100% healthy and ready to start her next chapter! Her beauty shines from the inside out, and she has so much love to give to the special person who sees just how precious she is.Raven deserves a forever home where she can feel safe, loved, and cherished for the wonderful little girl she is.
Read more about Raven
Could you be the one to give this sweet, cuddly girl her happily ever after? PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz. We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $350 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
7. Casper
Young · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages



Looking for a fun-loving companion who will fill your days with happiness, laughter, and lots of love? Meet Casper, a 21-pound Chihuahua mix with a heart as big as his personality!Casper is a super-friendly, playful little guy who absolutely loves attention and being loved on. He’s a happy boy who enjoys making friends, having fun, and soaking up all the affection you’re willing to give. With his sweet personality and joyful spirit, Casper is sure to bring plenty of smiles to his forever family!Now all this adorable boy needs is a family to call his own. Someone to love him, cuddle him, play with him, and remind him every day just how special he is.
Read more about Casper
Could Casper be the missing piece to your family? Adopt Casper and let a little more happiness into your life! PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz. We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $350 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
8. Faith V
Puppy (3 months 12 days) · Female · Beagle / Mixed (medium coat) · 25 mi from The Villages






Faith was found abandoned (probably dumped) at the end of a dirt road by a mechanics shop. That is where this sweet baby's story, as we know it, begins. It is beyond wonderful that we can now make that story so much better! Faith is currently being fostered in Georgia and is a happy little puppy who is delighted to have soft, clean bedding, nutritious puppy food and lots of love! She may not be quite as delighted with the deworming and vaccinations however. We do not know who her mother or father were but we estimate her to be somewhere between 12 and 14 weeks at this writing, so possibly a birth date of around 7/23.
Read more about Faith V
Currently she weighs 10.4 lb. When Faith has had a few more vaccinations and is ready for transport, we will bring her to Florida where we have an excited foster home waiting for her. She will be spayed, microchipped and ready for adoption the weekend after Thanksgiving. If you are interested in possibly adopting Faith, please submit an adoption survey right away and our Adoption Team will contact you promptly to discuss our adoption policies for puppies. Please note that once approved you will be required to make a $100.00 deposit towards her adoption fee in order for us to hold her for you. Thank you for seeking to adopt from a rescue!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
9. Duke Butler
Adult · Male · Boxer / Labrador Retriever / Mixed (short coat) · 17 mi from The Villages



DUKE BUTLER: A GENTLEMAN WITH A HEART FULL OF LOVE! Meet Duke Butler, a handsome 41-pound bundle of sweetness who believes the best place to be is right beside his favorite person! Duke is a friendly, affectionate boy who loves attention and is always happy to stick around for extra pets, cuddles, and a little one-on-one time. He has a wonderful way of making you feel special, and with his sweet personality and loving nature, he's easy to enjoy!This boy has some pretty great manners, too! Duke knows “sit” and “stay,” comes when called, takes treats gently, and walks nicely on a leash. He also does well in a crate, making him a nice companion to have around the house.
Read more about Duke Butler
He's good with children, too! Estimated to be 2–6 years old, Duke is past the puppy stage but still has plenty of fun and companionship to share. He'd love a family who appreciates a dog who enjoys being close, soaking up affection, and simply spending time together. A few things to know about Duke:Male, approximately 41 lbs.Estimated age: 2–6 yearsSweet, friendly, cuddly, and people-lovingKnows sit and stayWalks nicely on leash and does well in a crateGood with children*NO CATS, please!Citrus County Animal Services4030 S. Airport Rd., Inverness, FL
- Good with kids
- No cats
10. Zoomie
Young (9 months) · Female · Labrador Retriever / Mixed (short coat) · 46 mi from The Villages


Sweet girl came into the shelter as a stray and was going to be euthanized after being there for 4 months. She is a beautiful black lab with the sweetest personality. She loves everybody very playful but respectful with other dogs. She ignores the kitties loves kids. She is around 8 to 10 months according to our vets best guess. Zoomie would be a great fit in any home.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
11. Heddy
Puppy (3 months 11 days) · Female · Jack Russell Terrier / Parson Russell Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 41 mi from The Villages










Meet Heddy!Heddy along with her 3 brothers came to PRBJ from a rescue partner in Puerto Rico. They help save pups off the street and then fly them off the island so the pups can find their forever homes.
Important Information for New Puppy Parents
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience—but it also comes with important responsibilities. To help your puppy grow into a happy, confident, and well-adjusted adult dog, dedication to obedience training, socialization, and consistent potty training is essential.
We strongly recommend that the entire family participates in puppy training classes.
Read more about Heddy
This not only helps build a strong bond with your new pup but also ensures that everyone is using the same commands and techniques, creating a clear and consistent environment for learning.
**Puppies thrive with structure, patience, and positive reinforcement—and so do their families! Let’s set them up for a lifetime of love and success
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
12. Freddy
Puppy (3 months 11 days) · Female · Jack Russell Terrier / Parson Russell Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 41 mi from The Villages









Meet Freddy!Freddy and his 3 siblings came to PRBJ from a rescue partner in Puerto Rico. They help save pups off the street and then fly them off the island so the pups can find their forever homes.
Important Information for New Puppy Parents
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience—but it also comes with important responsibilities. To help your puppy grow into a happy, confident, and well-adjusted adult dog, dedication to obedience training, socialization, and consistent potty training is essential.
We strongly recommend that the entire family participates in puppy training classes.
Read more about Freddy
This not only helps build a strong bond with your new pup but also ensures that everyone is using the same commands and techniques, creating a clear and consistent environment for learning.
**Puppies thrive with structure, patience, and positive reinforcement—and so do their families! Let’s set them up for a lifetime of love and success
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
13. Paithsley
Puppy · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages



At just 8 months old and 10 pounds, Paithsley is a tiny bundle of sweetness with a personality that is impossible to resist! This adorable Chihuahua mix is super sweet, loving, and playful, and she has the cutest little underbite that makes her even more irresistible.Paithsley loves being around her people and is always ready for some fun, affection, and playtime. She may be small, but she has plenty of love to give and a whole lot of personality packed into her petite frame!If you’re looking for a loving, playful little companion with an adorable face and an even more adorable heart, Paithsley may be your perfect match.
Read more about Paithsley
She’s ready to find her forever family and fill their home with love, laughter, and lots of puppy fun!PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz. We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $400 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
14. Bowie FH
Adult (7 years 10 months) · Male · Poodle (Miniature) · 41 mi from The Villages







Meet Bowie!Bowie came to us when his owner's health was declining, and she was no longer able to care for him. He is used to grooming appts and is a sweet little dog who would love to have a home with a nice warm lap that he can spend endless hours on.
Bowie is house trained, but will also use pee pads if he is alone for extended periods. He does good on a leash but stays close and sometimes behind the person walking.
Foster update: Bowie has been a wonderful addition to our home and is ready to find his forever family!
Bowie is a sweet, loving dog with a medium energy level. He quickly bonded with his foster family and enjoys being close to his people, often following them throughout the house. He gets along well with other dogs, kids, cats and enjoys meeting new people.
Bowie walks nicely on a leash and, once he became comfortable in his foster home, started showing off his playful side with zoomies around the yard.
A few things to know about Bowie:
Read more about Bowie FH
He prefers soft food
He is house-trained and goes outside regularly but may also use puppy pads between potty breaks.
He can become anxious when left alone and may pace or cry initially but settles down.
He will need regular grooming to keep his coat healthy and prevent matting.
He has a good bit of energy and loves to play.
Bowie will thrive in a patient and loving home that can give him a little time to adjust. Once he settles in, his affectionate personality shines through, making him a wonderful companion.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
15. Reggie
Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages




Reggie is an 8-year-old terrier mix with a big personality packed into one adorable pup. Don’t let his age fool you—this handsome little guy is super spunky, playful, and full of energy! He’s always ready for a game, an adventure, or some fun with his favorite people.When he’s done showing off his playful side, Reggie is happiest curled up in a cozy lap, soaking up all the love and attention he can get. With his cute face, lively spirit, and affectionate nature, he’s sure to bring laughter, companionship, and plenty of tail wags to his new home.If you’re looking for a sweet, energetic best friend who also happens to be an expert cuddler, Reggie may be your perfect match!PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz.
Read more about Reggie
We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $350 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
16. Cotton Ball
Senior · Male · Bichon Frise · 32 mi from The Villages




Meet Cotton Ball, a 17-year-old Bichon with a heart full of love and a zest for life! This sweet, spunky senior boy may be a little older, but he certainly hasn’t lost his playful spirit. Cotton Ball enjoys having fun, loves a good nap, and is happiest when he’s getting attention and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.He’s proof that age is just a number, and he’s ready to spend his golden years surrounded by love, comfort, and a family who will cherish his sweet personality. If you’re looking for a special senior who still has plenty of personality and love to give, Cotton Ball may be your perfect little companion! PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz.
Read more about Cotton Ball
We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $150 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
17. Silas FH
Puppy (5 months 2 days) · Male · Labrador Retriever / Basenji / Mixed (short coat) · 41 mi from The Villages




Meet Silas!
Silas came to PRBJ after living on the streets in Puerto Rico. A rescue in PR found this little pup and took him in and began caring for him. Due to overcrowding at that rescue, they reached out to see if we had space to take him. So, Silas got his flight wings and was flown to Florida in search of his forever home.Silas is a timid guy who would be best with another dog in the house to buddy with and model after. A fenced backyard is ideal for a safe place to romp and play in.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
18. Buster
Adult (3 years) · Male · Hound / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 41 mi from The Villages






Meet Buster!Buster was found by a long time volunteer/supporter of PRBJ. They posted for him all over for weeks with no one coming forward to claim this sweet boy. At first, he is strong on the leash, but as he starts walking, he settles in. He likes playing in the yard with balls, so we think his ideal home should have a fenced yard where he can run and romp around. Buster is not a fan of being crated..what Hound is.... but has slowly gotten used to the idea. He would prefer not to be confined and would enjoy free roaming in his new home.Buster's ideal home would have a fenced backyard to explore and play in and an active family...maybe some kids to play ball with...and folks who are around for him to hang with and love on.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
19. Cardi
Adult (6 years 3 months) · Female · Beagle · 25 mi from The Villages










Cardi's purpose in life seems to be loving and being loved by her people. She enjoys meeting new people and is thrilled at the slightest attention shown to her. Being next to you getting pets and scritches is her absolute delight. Cardi plays with the other dogs in her foster home, but she has her limits with them and would also do just fine as an only dog. She does not like to be messed with when she is lying down and she will definitely tell them to go away if they get in her face while she is relaxing. We do not know about Cardi with cats but she does not seem interested in any prey. Her house training has improved immensely in the few weeks she has been in her foster home (arrived 8/21), and she has been crated for up to 6 hours with no accidents.
Read more about Cardi
Unsurprisingly, Cardi is very food motivated and will try to steal others food. She loves her treats, especially the soft little meaty ones. Currently Cardi is not leash walked and she loves to run in her fenced yard. Her energy level is perhaps slightly above moderate. She is heartworm positive but we expect her treatment, which is scheduled for October 1st, to go well and she should be ready for sleepover around October 5th.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
20. Moxie
Adult · Female · Schnauzer / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages




True to her name, Moxie is a 1½-year-old Schnauzer mix with a big personality and an even bigger zest for life! This sweet, spirited girl is always ready for her next adventure, whether it's chasing a tennis ball, playing fetch in the yard, or exploring the world by your side.Moxie is full of energy and loves to stay active, making her the perfect companion for someone who enjoys an interactive, playful pup. After she's had her fun, she's just as happy soaking up love and attention from her favorite people.If you're looking for a loyal best friend who will keep you smiling, encourage you to get outside, and fill your days with fun, Moxie is ready to bring her playful spirit and loving heart to her forever home.PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz.
Read more about Moxie
We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $400 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
21. Patience
Senior (8 years 2 months) · Female · Beagle · 25 mi from The Villages






*ADOPTION FEE SPONSORED BY: ACCORDING TO ELLIE *Patience is kind of the Betty White of Dogdom. She is sweetly innocent, always cheerful with a wagging tail, but there's a mischievous glint in her eye that says she's ready to play the clown and get goofy. She definitely has a joie de vivre. Her name is really appropriate for a couple of reasons. She most likely had a past that required forbearance and long-suffering. Probably had a lot of babies. It also takes patience to walk her as this girl is not going anywhere fast AND wants to smell everything along the way. She is great at going potty outside but you do have to make sure she goes outside regularly.
Read more about Patience
She is extremely food motivated so the tiniest little treat will get her on her way out the door. She is friendly to other dogs but doesn't really need them around. She appreciates so much the kindness shown to her and petting and belly rubs of course are very obviously enjoyed. She is fine being crated and will not eliminate in the crate. She occasionally gives a funny little bark but she's mostly very quiet. She has had a good dental cleaning with only 4 extractions along with a few growths removed - two around her eye which concerned us just because of their location.This lovely senior girl is negative for heartworms but does have a little arthritis and a heart murmur. She is currently taking Dasaquin and she recently had an echocardiogram for her heart murmur and she is maintaining heart function well on Vetmedin and Benazepril. Patience is a calm and quiet companion to share life with and providing for her in her later years would be a gift.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
22. Fifa
Adult (2 years 3 months) · Female · Labrador Retriever / Terrier / Mixed · 41 mi from The Villages



Meet FIFA!!She came to us during the World Cup and we could not resist the opportunity to name her and her 7 puppies after the game.FIFA is a sweet dog that came in after a family rescued all 8 from living on the street. FIFA loves humans....and that includes kids. She is however, selective on her canine friends and would be best as the only dog in the home. FIFA did come to us positive for heartworms and has begun the slow kill method. She needs to be the only dog in the home.
- Good with kids
- Only dog
- No cats
- House-trained
- Special needs
23. Millie
Young (2 years 4 months) · Female · Border Collie / Australian Shepherd / Mixed · 41 mi from The Villages



Graduated Oct 9, 2026Pet Rescue By Judy has teamed up with an incredible program called the Greyhound Advancement Center which will allow some of our dogs to attend a ten-week prison training program. The program originally started to help retired racing greyhounds learn how to “dog”.Greyhound racing is now illegal in our state, but the program worked so well that they decided to open up to other rescues and accept different breeds. Each dog is teamed up with an inmate who is in their dog training program. This program allows inmates to gain an important skill that they can bring with them when they are released.
Read more about Millie
The head trainers are the best of the best and we are sure that these dogs are going to come out of this program with all kinds of tricks up their little doggy sleeves. Our dogs are so blessed to be able to learn important obedience training to help with their confidence and make them awesome additions to a family.We cannot thank Greyhound Advancement Center enough for giving these dogs a leg up on getting into their forever home!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
24. Barnett
Senior (12 years 3 months) · Male · Beagle · 25 mi from The Villages










*ADOPTION FEE SPONSORED BY: ACCORDING TO ELLIE *Barnett may be an older gentleman but he has such a young spirit! He is active, seeks out and engages with his humans and loves to explore the backyard in his foster home. He's such a happy boy and his tail is always wagging! Barnett has mastered the doggie door and his house training is going well, although not perfect yet. Foster mom is taking him to weekly obedience classes to socialize and he's quickly learning come and sit. He is doing well walking on a leash too. We are hoping he will also learn stay, wait, and leave it ...we will see! When Barnett meets new people he gets excited but calms quickly, and on walks he has been friendly with all the dogs we've introduced him to, even if they were not as friendly or welcoming to him.
Read more about Barnett
However, we do believe that Barnett will do best as an only dog. He shows occasional curiosity towards the cat, but redirects easily. He has also done well interacting with children. He has spotted squirrels, frogs and lizards in the yard and loves chasing them yet has never gotten close to catching them. He likes bones or bully sticks and will carry them around with him, and he occasionally plays with stuffed toys. He is VERY food motivated!! At night Barnett sleeps in his doggie bed or crate in his foster mom's bedroom or on her bed. When foster mom leaves for work, Barnett does bark and has some anxiety if he sees her leave, so she gives him a frozen dog treat or toy to distract him for a while. If he doesn’t see her leave, he transitions well to being alone. In the beginning, Barnett was not really a lap dog, but the longer he is in his foster home, the more affectionate he is becoming! He loves head scratches and praise and is starting to want snuggle and curl up with foster mom to nap. We would really like to see Barnett in a home that can show patience and kindness and also maybe provide him a fenced yard where he can explore. SPECIAL NOTE: Barnett is heartworm positive and, after doing x-rays, we were advised to do Doxycycline and Proheart and retest him in 9 months, and not to do the injections at this time. We would still love to see him get adopted and would certainly be willing to discuss his treatment plan and possibly making our future financial support for that a provision of the Adoption Agreement.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
25. Pamela
Adult · Female · Black Mouth Cur / Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages




Meet Pamela, a beautiful three-year-old black Cur mix with a sparkly personality and a heart full of love. This sweet girl is the perfect mix of playful energy and affectionate charm. Whether she’s proudly carrying around her favorite toy, zooming around the yard with excitement, or soaking up all the pets and attention you can give, Pamela lives life with joy and enthusiasm.Pamela is spunky, fun, and always ready to brighten your day with her adorable antics and happy spirit. She loves to play, loves to be loved, and would thrive in a home where she can be part of the action and included in all the fun.
Read more about Pamela
After playtime, she’s more than happy to lean in for cuddles and enjoy some well-deserved affection.If you’re looking for a loyal companion with a playful heart, endless sweetness, and a love for toys and attention, Pamela may just be your perfect match.PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz. We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $300 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
26. Colleen
Adult (4 years 6 months) · Female · Beagle · 25 mi from The Villages










Colleen is a tender soul and a real people lover. She is also very good with other dogs, both male and female, and gentle with cats. One cat she met bopped her on the nose and Colleen just rolled over on her back. :) She was seen being dumped from a car, but fortunately she was rescued and taken to a very good shelter. She has now settled in well in her Florida foster home. She has a moderate to low energy level, will occasionally play with toys and sometimes with other dogs. Although she likes her food, she is not super food motivated and a little crazy like some beagles can be. She also walks well on leash.
Read more about Colleen
Colleen will make someone the most calm, serene and loving companion. She tested positive for heartworms but has completed her treatment and ready for a sleepover. She does need a home where people will not have to leave her alone very much because she has exhibited some separation anxiety.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
Adopting a dog with children in The Villages
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 The Villages
- Polka Dogz Pet REscue, INc.oakland, fl · 10 kid-friendly dogs above
- Pet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · 7 kid-friendly dogs above
- SouthEast Beagle Rescue Inc.Dunnellon, FL · 5 kid-friendly dogs above
- Animal Advocates FLSanford, FL · 2 kid-friendly dogs above
- Adopt Citrus County Animal Shelter PetsInverness, Fl · 2 kid-friendly dogs above
Questions about adopting kid-friendly dogs in The Villages
How many kid-friendly dogs are up for adoption in The Villages?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 50 miles of The Villages, Florida, have 26 kid-friendly dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a kid-friendly dog in The Villages?
The rescues with the most kid-friendly dogs near The Villages right now are Polka Dogz Pet REscue, INc. (oakland, fl), Pet Rescue By Judy (Sanford, FL) and SouthEast Beagle Rescue Inc. (Dunnellon, FL). 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.