Kid-Friendly Dogs for Adoption in Elkhart, IN: 30 Dogs Good with Children
By Dogs of the Day · Updated

Rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Elkhart have 39 kid-friendly dogs up for adoption. Here are the 30 newest, 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.
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1. Zena
Adult · Female · Affenpinscher · 36 mi from Elkhart



Hi, I'm Zena and my care takers describe me as loving with lots of energy. I have a very high prey drive and will go after small animals so no cats or small animals in the home will be best. I was also dog tested with a larger dog and didn't seem to mind the larger dog (I seem to know when I have met my match) but they will definitely require a meet and greet to make sure I'm going to be nice. If I could make a request, I would love a home that has lots of toys for me to play with especially rope toys! If you are ready for a spit fire in a tiny body stop out and see me! I have lots of love to give and can't wait for my family to find me.Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- No cats
2. Pearl
Adult · Female · Great Pyrenees / Mixed · 37 mi from Elkhart



Pearl is a gentle Great Pyrenees mix, 70 lbs and approximately 1–2 years old. She has the classic Pyrenees guardian nature, protective of their home and family, aware of their surroundings, and will alert with barking when she notices something outside. Although she loves Opal, she will do fine in a separate home. Pearl thrives with another friendly dog for companionship and confidence. Pearl will chase cats. She is house trained, good with other dogs, rides well in the car, and has no food or toy issues. She loves the comforts of home, settling into her bed like a true Pyrenees who appreciates calm, cozy spaces.She is spayed, up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and current on preventatives.Adoption Criteria:- Fencedin backyard required- Adult who is home more during the day- Children 7+ (younger casebycase)Adoption Fee: $300 if you would like to adopt Pearl and Opal the fee is $500 for bothPearl is being fostered in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
3. Opal
Adult · Female · Great Pyrenees / Mixed · 37 mi from Elkhart




Opal is a gentle Great Pyrenees , 70 lbs and approximately 1–2 years old. She has the classic Pyrenees guardian nature, protective of their home and family, aware of their surroundings, and will alert with barking when she notices something outside. Their barking is normal GP guardian behavior.Although she loves Pearl, she will do fine in a separate home. Opal thrives with another friendly dog for companionship and confidence. She will just cats, so not recommended. She is house trained, good with other dogs, rides well in the car, and has no food or toy issues.She loves the comforts of home, settling into her bed like a true Pyrenees who appreciates calm, cozy spaces.She is spayed, up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and current on preventatives.Adoption Criteria:- Fencedin backyard required- Adult who is home more during the day- Children 7+ (younger casebycase)Adoption Fee: $300.Each .
Read more about Opal
If you wish to adopt Pearl and Opal the adoption fee is $500Opal is being fostered in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
4. Roger
Young · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier · 36 mi from Elkhart




Hi there! My name is Roger and I am 1 years old! I am a sweet, friendly guy that came into the shelter terrified of life and a little thin... but look at me now! While I still may be a little shy to warm up to new friends and new environments, I am doing so much better each and every day! I love to play fetch! I am a pretty good mix of playful and chill! I can play and play if you'd like but also I would love to flop onto the couch with you and watch a movie. Lets be the best of friends! I have done well with other dogs and once I warm up to their presence (people are more fun to me at first), I would love to play! I was found as a stray and unfortunately no one stepped forward to claim me, so staff is not sure if I am housetrained.
Read more about Roger
While I show good signs of being housetrained, I may need a few reminders at home while I adjust to your routine!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
5. Ginger
Adult · Female · Husky · 36 mi from Elkhart




Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
6. Penny
Young · Female · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed · 36 mi from Elkhart




Hi friends! My name is Penny and I am 10 months old. I am a super sweet puppy that is pretty energetic! I would do best in a home with a fenced in yard where I can zoom out my energy! I am playful, affectionate, friendly and so much fun! As long as I have toys to play with, I can entertain myself by throwing them in the air and chasing after them. It's a trick I taught myself!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
7. Oakley
Adult · Female · Coonhound · 36 mi from Elkhart




Hi there! I'm Oakley and I am 4.5 years old. I am sweet girl that can't wait to have a large yard where I can run, run, run! I am just like my breed: independent, tireless and ready to work but also mellow, affectionate and a couch potato at home! I am a food motivated girly and family friendly!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
8. Gus
Adult · Male · Affenpinscher · 36 mi from Elkhart


Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
9. Panda
Adult · Female · Australian Shepherd / Mixed · 36 mi from Elkhart


Meet Panda a sweet 5 1/2 year old aussie mix who is looking for a soft bed to land on. I'm sweet and listen well. Panda was adopted from us once before but came back due to her owner having health issues. We are told that she is potty trained, likes golf cart rides and being with her people. Panda is the definition of lazy, this big girl doesn't want to help you get in shape or be your walking partner. She would like nothing more than short walks to the kitchen for a snack and into the backyard to use the restroom. While loving on Panda you may notice a lump on her back, when the last owner had it checked by a vet they said it isn't anything that will affect her.
Read more about Panda
Come meet Panda and see if she could be your perfect couch partner.Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Only dog
- No cats
- House-trained
10. Dixon
Young · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed · 36 mi from Elkhart




Meet Dixon our 1 year old staffy mix. This blue eyed guy is looking for his perfect match! Are you looking for a handsome young man to join your family? Maybe you are cold and need a cuddle buddy, or maybe you have a dog that would love a friend! Or maybe you are looking for that perfect match that will play with the kids and join you on your long walks. Look no further than Dixon! He is all of that and more. This handsome guy has a heart of gold and gives the best hugs. His dream is to one day have a family of his very own, and no worries if you have a family he will slide right in and make himself at home on the couch.
Read more about Dixon
He loves love and exercise, so if a nice long walk or hike on the weekend is your idea of a good time, take him home today! There is nothing more than this guy loves then spending time with his people. Come meet Dixon and you wont want to look any further!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
11. Mitch
Young · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed · 36 mi from Elkhart




Hello, hello! My name is Mitch and I am a 10 month old cutie patootie!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
12. Glock
Adult · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed · 36 mi from Elkhart




Hello! My name is Glock and I am 5.5 years old. I am a sweet, friendly boy that is quite chunky! I am 73 lbs of pure love. I am a highly food motivated boy that will gobble treats all day long if I could. I also love to play with toys and can win any game of tug of war. I was surrendered to the shelter due to not getting along well with other dogs, so I do need a dog free home!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Only dog
13. Bentley
Adult · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 36 mi from Elkhart




Hi there! My name is Bentley and I am 2.5 years old. I am a sweet, playful boy that is back here at the shelter; I was adopted last year and have returned due to there being a baby in the household. I am a friendly, affectionate boy that is pretty high energy! I like to be a lap dog when I want to be though and can provide some great snuggles! I am friendly with strangers and visitors too and want to play with them! I do well with other doggos, including large and small dogs, and I have lived successfully with cats too! I am crated when I am left alone in the home and I do pretty well... but I do like to tear up my stuffed animals.
Read more about Bentley
Who doesn't love free fluffing? I like to play with tennis balls, bones, kongs, squeaky toys and rope toys! Anyways, I know how to sit, leave it, off and come, but I can pull quite hard on the leash so a fenced in yard would be recommended for me unless you're up for some leash training! I do have some facial scarring from my past, but I think it only adds to my unique and lovable look! I hope you will come visit me soon!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
14. Anna
Adult · Female · American Staffordshire Terrier / Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler / Mixed · 36 mi from Elkhart




I'm Anna and I'm 5 years old! I am full of life! I'm such a fun, loving, happy girl. I don't have too much interest in toys, but I would love a fenced in yard where I can run! I also just love to be loved on, so if you're looking for a cuddle bug, sign me up! I love my walks and any and all attention. Come see me and you are sure to fall in love with my bubbly personality!I am in need of a cat free home, and I can be a bit picky on my doggy friends, BUT I am a good girl that can't wait to find the family that is right for me!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- No cats
- House-trained
15. Maximus
Adult · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed · 36 mi from Elkhart




Hi! I'm Maximus and I am 4 years old! I am a short, stocky boy that thinks I am over 100 pounds. I am a powerhouse, wrecking ball of fun! I love to play, I love to eat, I love pig ears, I love to play with other dogs (even if they don't want to play with me), and I love life.Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
16. Dodger
Young · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed · 36 mi from Elkhart




Meet Dodger, a happy go lucky guy who at just 1 year still has a lot of life let in him. Dodger came to AWL as a stray and we cant help but notice how much he looks like Rodger! They also seem to have similar temperaments but still very much each their own. Dodger has been around some of the staffs kids and absolutely had a good time, he also likes to play with other dogs. He may not be every dogs cup of tea as he like to get on top of other dogs and is very vocal while playing so some dogs may not enjoy that. We do require a meet and greet to make sure the dogs personalities align. Dodger also we tested with cats and he did great! He saw the cats run across the floor but he could have cared less about the cats.
Read more about Dodger
Dodger loves his squeak toys and enjoys a frozen peanut butter Kong in the evenings. Dodger would make a great dog for a home who is ready to teach him some basic manners and give him opportunities to get his energy out. Come meet Dodger and see if he is the dog for you and if he isn't ask about our other dogs! We have tons of amazing dogs looking for their next chance to have a family!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
17. Silna
Senior · Female · Staffordshire Bull Terrier / Mixed · 36 mi from Elkhart




Hello, my name is Silna. I am a sweet and quiet girl. My fur is so warm and soft, would you like to pet me? I'd love to be petted and cuddled. I also like to go for walks. My dream is to find a loving family that will let me watch tv with them and comfy bed where I can nap. Come visit me today!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
18. Kilo
Adult · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed · 36 mi from Elkhart




Hi there! I'm Kilo and I am 5 years old. I am a good boy that was recently surrendered to the shelter due to no fault of my own. My mom loved me very, very much and giving up my fur sister and I was very hard on her. She gave the shelter all kinds of information on me, so lets talk about it! I have successfully lived with Maelin (my fur sister who is also available for adoption), cats and kittens and an infant and I have done amazing with them. I cuddle with all of them! I am a good boy that listens very well and I know how to sit, stay, come and shake. I am loyal and protective and sometimes that means that I am weary of strange men.
Read more about Kilo
I can be a little shy when meeting new people, but throw a ball for me and I'll warm right up! I am housetrained and I ring the potty bells when I have to go potty! I was not crated when my mom left the house, and I did very well left alone by myself. I love toys of all kinds: balls, squeaky toys, stuffed toys and even a basketball that I deflated and love to carry around like its my personal emotional support friend. I may pull on the leash a bit so keep a tight hold on me for walks because I do have a prey drive for little critters, including cats, that are not my friends. For my future owner, I do not enjoy the vet or my nails being trimmed, so I am used to taking trazadone and sedatives for my anxiety when it comes to medical things; this is an extra expense whenever it is vet time so please keep that in mind! I am used to eating Iams large breed dog food (chicken and whole grain) and have done very well on that brand! If you have read this far and are looking for a cuddle bug to lay under the blankets with you, cuddle in bed and greet you warmly when you come home, I am the perfect guy for you!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
19. Andy
Puppy · Male · Labrador Retriever / Catahoula Leopard Dog / Mixed · 37 mi from Elkhart



Andy is being fostered in Fort Wayne, IndianaAndy is a mild-mannered puppy who likes to play. Potty training is coming along nicely. He is kid-friendly and leaves the cats alone. His best buddy at the rescue is Nikko if you are looking for a pair, they are really good dogs and will do great together. Please submit an application on our website. www.indianasaveadog.com. Once approved, you may schedule a meetandgreet/adoption appointment to meet any of our available puppies.A $40 refundable deposit is required once your application is approved to hold this dog or schedule a meetandgreet. This helps us respect the time and commitment of our foster families and volunteers.
Read more about Andy
The deposit is applied to the adoption fee or fully refunded if you attend your appointment and decide not to adopt.All puppies are up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and will be spayed/neutered before adoption.ADOPTION CRITERIA An approved puppy pen is required for most dogs, rather than a crate A fenced yard is required for safety. Condo applicants without fencing may be considered on a casebycase basis. A household with an adult home during the day to provide training, supervision, and companionship Children 7+ (younger children considered casebycase)
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
20. Ava
Puppy · Female · Labrador Retriever / Hound / Mixed · 37 mi from Elkhart



Ava is being fostered in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Please submit an application on our website. www.indianasaveadog.com. Once approved, you may schedule a meetandgreet/adoption appointment to meet any of our available puppies.Ava is good with all dogs. Not sure about cats. She is doing well with potty training. Ava is very submissive, and other dogs tend to bully her, so she needs a home with another submissive dog, or no dogs. Ava and Tommy are best buddies if you are looking for a pair. A $40 refundable deposit is required once your application is approved to hold this dog or schedule a meetandgreet.
Read more about Ava
This helps us respect the time and commitment of our foster families and volunteers. The deposit is applied to the adoption fee or fully refunded if you attend your appointment and decide not to adopt.All puppies are up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and will be spayed/neutered before adoption. ADOPTION CRITERIA An approved puppy pen is required for most dogs, rather than a crate A fenced yard is required for safety. Condo applicants without fencing may be considered on a casebycase basis. A household with an adult home during the day to provide training, supervision, and companionship Children 7+ (younger children considered casebycase)
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
21. Ace
Puppy · Male · Labrador Retriever / Boxer / Mixed · 37 mi from Elkhart




Ace is being fostered in Fort Wayne , Indiana Ace is a pretty calm and mild-mannered puppy. Loves people and attention. He can play hard with another dog. We do play groups here, and when he is placed in a group with larger dogs, he settles down. Please submit an application on our website. www.indianasaveadog.com. Once approved, you may schedule a meetandgreet/adoption appointment to meet any of our available puppies.A $40 refundable deposit is required once your application is approved to hold this dog or schedule a meetandgreet. This helps us respect the time and commitment of our foster families and volunteers.
Read more about Ace
The deposit is applied to the adoption fee or fully refunded if you attend your appointment and decide not to adopt.All puppies are up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and will be spayed/neutered before adoption.ADOPTION CRITERIA A fenced yard is required for safety. Condo applicants without fencing may be considered on a casebycase basis. A household with an adult home during the day to provide training, supervision, and companionship Children 7+ (younger children considered casebycase) Gated area, no crating
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
22. Addie
Puppy · Female · Labrador Retriever / Cattle Dog / Mixed · 37 mi from Elkhart



Addie is being fostered in Fort Wayne, IndianaAddie is a pretty mild-mannered puppy. She loves to be outside in the sun. She plays well with the other dogs. Has done great with her potty training. Does well with children and leaves the cats alonePlease submit an application on our website. www.indianasaveadog.com. Once approved, you may schedule a meetandgreet/adoption appointment to meet any of our available puppies.A $40 refundable deposit is required once your application is approved to hold this dog or schedule a meetandgreet. This helps us respect the time and commitment of our foster families and volunteers.
Read more about Addie
The deposit is applied to the adoption fee or fully refunded if you attend your appointment and decide not to adopt.Weight:18 lbsAge: 4-5 monthsAll puppies are up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and will be spayed/neutered before adoption.ADOPTION CRITERIA An approved puppy pen is required for most dogs, rather than a crate A fenced yard is required for safety. Condo applicants without fencing may be considered on a casebycase basis. A household with an adult home during the day to provide training, supervision, and companionship Children 7+ (younger children considered casebycase)
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
23. Juliet
Puppy · Female · Shepherd / Rat Terrier / Mixed · 37 mi from Elkhart



Juliet is being fostered in Fort Wayne, Indiana Please submit an application on our website. www.indianasaveadog.com. Once approved, you may schedule a meetandgreet/adoption appointment to meet any of our available puppies.A $40 refundable deposit is required once your application is approved to hold this dog or schedule a meetandgreet. This helps us respect the time and commitment of our foster families and volunteers. The deposit is applied to the adoption fee or fully refunded if you attend your appointment and decide not to adopt.All puppies are up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and will be spayed/neutered before adoption. An approved puppy pen is required for most dogs, rather than a crate A fenced yard is required for safety.
Read more about Juliet
Condo applicants without fencing may be considered on a casebycase basis. A household with an adult home during the day to provide training, supervision, and companionship Children 7+ (younger children considered casebycase)
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
24. Jazzi
Puppy · Female · Catahoula Leopard Dog / Terrier / Mixed · 37 mi from Elkhart



Jazzi is being fostered in Fort Wayne, Indiana Please submit an application on our website. www.indianasaveadog.com. Once approved, you may schedule a meetandgreet/adoption appointment to meet any of our available puppies.Jazzi is a playful, loving puppy. Good with people and kids. All puppies are up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and will be spayed/neutered before adoption.A $40 refundable deposit is required once your application is approved to hold this dog or schedule a meetandgreet. This helps us respect the time and commitment of our foster families and volunteers. The deposit is applied to the adoption fee or fully refunded if you attend your appointment and decide not to adopt. An approved puppy pen is required for most dogs, rather than a crate A fenced yard is required for safety.
Read more about Jazzi
Condo applicants without fencing may be considered on a casebycase basis. A household with an adult home during the day to provide training, supervision, and companionship Children 7+ (younger children considered casebycase)
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
25. Dexter
Puppy · Male · Hound / Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 37 mi from Elkhart



Dexter is a very submissive, playful, and lovable puppy with a sweet, gentle nature. He warms up quickly, loves attention, and enjoys being close to his people. He’s an easygoing boy who just wants to make everyone happyPlease submit an application on our website. www.indianasaveadog.com. Once approved, you may schedule a meetandgreet/adoption appointment to meet any of our available puppies.All puppies are up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and will be spayed/neutered before adoption.A $40 refundable deposit is required once your application is approved to hold this dog or schedule a meetandgreet.
Read more about Dexter
This helps us respect the time and commitment of our foster families and volunteers. The deposit is applied to the adoption fee or fully refunded if you attend your appointment and decide not to A fenced yard is required for safety. Condo applicants without fencing may be considered on a casebycase basis. A household with an adult home during the day to provide training, supervision, and companionship Children 7+ (younger children considered casebycase)
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
26. Nikko
Puppy · Male · Labrador Retriever / Boxer / Mixed · 37 mi from Elkhart



Nikko is being fostered in Fort Wayne, IndianaNikko is a lovable, attentionseeking boy who adores being close to his people. He’s quiet, wellbehaved, and full of sweetness. Nikko enjoys companionship, gets along well with other dogs, and is great with kids. Nikko is mild-mannered and likes to play. Potty training is coming along nicely. He is kid-friendly and leaves the cats alone. His best buddy at the rescue is Andy if you are looking for a pair, they are really good dogs and will do great together. Please submit an application on our website. www.indianasaveadog.com. Once approved, you may schedule a meetandgreet/adoption appointment to meet any of our available puppies.A $40 refundable deposit is required once your application is approved to hold this dog or schedule a meetandgreet.
Read more about Nikko
This helps us respect the time and commitment of our foster families and volunteers. The deposit is applied to the adoption fee or fully refunded if you attend your appointment and decide not to adopt.All puppies are up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and will be spayed/neutered before adoption.ADOPTION CRITERIA An approved puppy pen is required for most dogs, rather than a crate A fenced yard is required for safety. Condo applicants without fencing may be considered on a casebycase basis. A household with an adult home during the day to provide training, supervision, and companionship Children 7+ (younger children considered casebycase)
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
27. Presley
Puppy · Male · Labrador Retriever / Hound / Mixed · 37 mi from Elkhart



Presley is being fostered in Fort Wayne, Indiana Presley is a very submissive, playful, and lovable little boy with a sweet, gentle personality. He warms up quickly, enjoys being close to his people, and gets along beautifully with other dogs. He’s an easy, affectionate pup who just wants to make everyone happy.Please submit an application on our website. www.indianasaveadog.com. Once approved, you may schedule a meetandgreet/adoption appointment to meet any of our available puppies.A $40 refundable deposit is required once your application is approved to hold this dog or schedule a meetandgreet.
Read more about Presley
This helps us respect the time and commitment of our foster families and volunteers. The deposit is applied to the adoption fee or fully refunded if you attend your appointment and decide not to adopt.All puppies are up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and will be spayed/neutered before adoption. An approved puppy pen is required for most dogs, rather than a crate A fenced yard is required for safety. Condo applicants without fencing may be considered on a casebycase basis. A household with an adult home during the day to provide training, supervision, and companionship Children 7+ (younger children considered casebycase)
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
28. Tommy
Puppy · Male · Jack Russell Terrier / Hound / Mixed · 37 mi from Elkhart




Please submit an application on our website. www.indianasaveadog.com. Once approved, you may schedule a meetandgreet/adoption appointment to meet any of our available puppies.Tommy is being fostered in Fort Wayne, Indiana.Tommy is an easygoing, cuddly couch potato. He prefers long naps in the sun and sitting next to you on the couch. He does great with the other dogs and leaves cats alone. He loves sitting on your lap and just hanging out.A $40 refundable deposit is required once your application is approved to hold this dog or schedule a meetandgreet. This helps us respect the time and commitment of our foster families and volunteers.
Read more about Tommy
The deposit is applied to the adoption fee or fully refunded if you attend your appointment and decide not to adopt.Tommy was surrendered to the shelter in Louisiana along with his mom, Tula. His mom is a Jack Russell Terrier, and his unknown father appears to be a hound. Tommy has a calm, submissive nature. He is a 7monthold puppy with a very sweet, gentle personality and currently 34lbs. He won't get much bigger than he is now. All puppies are up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and will be spayed/neutered before adoption.ADOPTION CRITERIA An approved puppy pen is required for most dogs, rather than a crate A fenced yard is required for safety. Condo applicants without fencing may be considered on a casebycase basis. A household with an adult home during the day to provide training, supervision, and companionship Children 7+ (younger children considered casebycase)
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
29. Otis
Adult · Male · Labrador Retriever / Staffordshire Bull Terrier / Mixed · 37 mi from Elkhart




Otis is being Fostered in Fort Wayne We can't say enough about Otis and what a great dog he is. He is smallboned at 43 pounds. He loves people, other dogs, and ignores cats. He is between 1 and 2 years old. He is very sweet and loves his dog buddies, snacks, and his toys. He’s not crazy about the leash yet, so he gets his exercise in a fenced area, running around and playing with his stuffies. He would love a home with another submissive dog to cuddle with. He truly loves his foster dogsHe had such a hard life in Louisiana before he came here. He deserves a great home. He was wandering the streets as a stray, and his body shows the trauma that comes from surviving as a street dog — he has many scars.
Read more about Otis
He wandered into a lady’s yard, probably looking for food. Instead of giving him any help, she beat him with a baseball bat. He cowered down, did not react, did not get aggressive — he just took the beating until another person saw what was happening, stepped in, and took him to the shelter. Once approved, you may schedule a meetandgreet/adoption appointment to meet any of our available dogs or puppies.A $40 refundable deposit is required once your application is approved to hold this dog or schedule a meetandgreet. This helps us respect the time and commitment of our foster families and volunteers. The deposit is applied to the adoption fee or fully refunded if you attend your appointment and decide not to adopt.All puppies/dogs are up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and will be spayed/neutered before adoption.Adoption Fee: $200ADOPTION CRITERIA• A fenced yard is required for safety. • A household with an adult at home during the day to provide training, supervision, and companionship• Children 10+ (younger children considered casebycase)
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
30. Fabio
Puppy · Male · Labrador Retriever / Terrier / Mixed · 37 mi from Elkhart



Fabio truly lives up to his name — a fabulous, lovable, and gentle puppy with a playful heart.Please submit an application on our website. www.indianasaveadog.com. Once approved, you may schedule a meetandgreet/adoption appointment to meet any of our available puppies.All puppies are up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and will be spayed/neutered before adoption.A $40 refundable deposit is required once your application is approved to hold this dog or schedule a meetandgreet. This helps us respect the time and commitment of our foster families and volunteers. The deposit is applied to the adoption fee or fully refunded if you attend your appointment and decide not to adopt.ADOPTION CRITERIA An approved puppy pen is required , rather than a crate A fenced yard is required for safety.
Read more about Fabio
Condo applicants without fencing may be considered on a casebycase basis. A household with an adult home during the day to provide training, supervision, and companionship Children 7+ (younger children considered casebycase)
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
Adopting a dog with children in Elkhart
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 Elkhart
- Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko CountyPierceton , IN · 16 kid-friendly dogs above
- Save A Dog RescueGrovertown, In · 14 kid-friendly dogs above
Questions about adopting kid-friendly dogs in Elkhart
How many kid-friendly dogs are up for adoption in Elkhart?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Elkhart, Indiana, have 39 kid-friendly dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a kid-friendly dog in Elkhart?
The rescues with the most kid-friendly dogs near Elkhart right now are Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County (Pierceton , IN) and Save A Dog Rescue (Grovertown, In). 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.