Ankeny, IA

Kid-Friendly Dogs for Adoption in Ankeny, IA: 23 Dogs Good with Children

Kid-Friendly Dogs up for adoption near Ankeny, IA

Rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Ankeny have 23 kid-friendly dogs up for adoption. Here are all 23, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.

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

1. Sadie

Puppy (4 months 11 days) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 15 mi from Ankeny

Sadie is an adorable 4-month-old female Pit Bull mix with a heart full of love and a personality that will steal yours! This sweet girl came to Hope Animal Rescue of Iowa as a local owner surrender and is now searching for her forever family. Sadie can be a little shy when meeting new people or experiencing new things, but don’t let that fool you! Give her a little time to warm up, and her fun-loving, affectionate personality quickly shines through. Once she’s comfortable, she’s all about playing, soaking up attention, and curling up for some quality cuddle time. Like any young puppy, Sadie is still learning the ropes! She is not yet potty trained, but she’s already practicing in her foster home and making progress.

Read more about Sadie

With consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement, we think this smart little girl will catch on quickly! Sadie is at the perfect age to continue learning, exploring, and growing alongside her forever family. She’ll need a family willing to guide her through puppyhood, continue her training, and give her all the love and snuggles she deserves. Sadie’s Perfect Match: A patient, loving family who understands that puppies take time, training, and consistency. In return, you’ll get a loyal, playful, and incredibly cuddly best friend! If you are interested in meeting Sadie please complete and application https://hopeanimalrescueofiowa.duplie.com/forms/196/dog-application Adoption fee is $300 which includes spay/neuter, microchip, and age appropriate vaccines.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Sadie fromHope Animal Rescue of IowaWest Des Moines, IA · listed Oct 16

2. Zion

Puppy (1 month 22 days) · Male · Labrador Retriever / Mixed (medium coat) · 15 mi from Ankeny

Zion is scheduled for his neuter and rabies vaccination on Wednesday, January 6, 2027. His adopter will be required to complete his remaining vetting (neuter and remaining vaccinations) in West Des Moines, Iowa without exception.

Read more about Zion

Zion is an 8-week-old, male (dob 9/11/26), Lab mix puppy that weighs about 12 lbs. Zion will likely be 70 to 80 lbs. full grown. He is an active, adventurous puppy that loves to explore and keep busy. He is working on house training and kennel training and is doing quite well for such a young puppy. He is walking well on a leash and also likes to explore but mostly hangs out right next to me. He needs human touch. Zion is a friendly, sweet puppy that does well with other dogs and enjoys children. He has started walking on a leash and does very well. This boy is very smart and is eager to please.

Momma: Ziggy
Siblings: Zion (M), Zavian (M), Zora (F), Zena (F), Zaida (F)

If you are interested in meeting Zion, please complete an online application at https://hopeanimalrescueofiowa.duplie.com/forms/196/dog-application Adoption fee is $300 which includes spay/neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Zion fromHope Animal Rescue of IowaWest Des Moines, IA · listed Oct 15

3. Zena

Puppy (1 month 22 days) · Female · Labrador Retriever / Mixed (medium coat) · 15 mi from Ankeny

Zena is scheduled for her spay and rabies vaccination on Wednesday, January 6, 2027. Her adopter will be required to complete her remaining vetting (spay and remaining vaccinations) in West Des Moines, Iowa without exception.

Read more about Zena

Zena is an 8-week-old (dob 9/11/26), female, Lab mix that weighs around 10 lbs. We have no idea what breed daddy is, but momma appears to be part Black Lab. She will likely be 50 to 60 lbs. full grown. Zena is as sweet as they come and is the smallest of her littermates. She has started her kennel training, house training, and leash training. She eats in her kennel and sleeps through the night in it. Zena is a very young puppy so she will need time to become fully house trained, but she is doing pretty good so far for her age. She has adjusted well to being on a leash and needs continued experience with it. Zena is being fostered with her brother Zion and 2 other large dogs that are helping her learn how to interact and play with other dogs. One of Zena's favorite past-times is jumping into leaf piles and chasing her brother through them. She is a very smart puppy and has already learned to sit, stay, and come when given the command.

Momma: Ziggy

Siblings: Zion (M), Zavian (M), Zora (F), Zena (F), Zaida (F)

If you are interested in meeting Zena, please complete an online application at https://hopeanimalrescueofiowa.duplie.com/forms/196/dog-application Adoption fee is $300 which includes spay/neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Zena fromHope Animal Rescue of IowaWest Des Moines, IA · listed Oct 15

4. Zaida

Puppy (1 month 22 days) · Female · Labrador Retriever / Mixed (medium coat) · 15 mi from Ankeny

Zaida is scheduled for her spay and rabies vaccination on Wednesday, January 6, 2027. Her adopter will be required to complete her remaining vetting (spay and remaining vaccinations) in West Des Moines, Iowa without exception.

Read more about Zaida

Zaida is an 8-week-old (dob approximately 9/11/26), 12 lb., female, Lab mix puppy. We have no idea what breed daddy is, but momma appears to be part Black Lab. She will likely be 65 to 75 lbs. full grown. She loves being pampered and being the center of attention! At just 8 weeks old, she is just starting to learn about kennel and house training, but she is very smart and should get the hang of it pretty quickly. She is doing well with the adult dogs and cats in her foster home. This girl plays hard and then sleeps hard. She's every bit as sweet as she is sassy!

Momma: Ziggy
Siblings: Zion (M), Zavian (M), Zora (F), Zena (F), Zaida (F)

If you are interested in meeting Zaida, please complete an online application at https://hopeanimalrescueofiowa.duplie.com/forms/196/dog-application Adoption fee is $300 which includes spay/neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Zaida fromHope Animal Rescue of IowaWest Des Moines, IA · listed Oct 15

5. Zora

Puppy (1 month 23 days) · Female · Labrador Retriever / Mixed (medium coat) · 15 mi from Ankeny

Zora is scheduled for her spay and rabies vaccination on Tuesday, January 5, 2027. Her adopter will be required to complete her remaining vetting (spay and remaining vaccinations) in West Des Moines, Iowa without exception.

Read more about Zora

Zora is an 8-week-old (dob 9/11/26), 12 lb., female, Lab mix puppy. We have no idea what breed daddy is, but momma appears to be part Black Lab. She will likely be 65 to 75 lbs. full grown. Zora is working on house training, kennel training, and leash training in her foster home. She is a sweet, cuddly puppy loves other dogs and kids. She is a very smart puppy that would love an active family that can help her learn about the world and explore as she grows up.

Momma: Ziggy

Siblings: Zion (M), Zavian (M), Zora (F), Zena (F), Zaida (F)

If you are interested in meeting Zora, please complete an online application at https://hopeanimalrescueofiowa.duplie.com/forms/196/dog-application Adoption fee is $300 which includes spay/neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Zora fromHope Animal Rescue of IowaWest Des Moines, IA · listed Oct 15

6. Simba

Puppy (3 months 16 days) · Male · Black Mouth Cur / Labrador Retriever / Mixed (short coat) · 15 mi from Ankeny

Simba is an approximate 15-week-old, 25 lb., male, possible Black Mouth Cur/Lab mix puppy. He and his 3 siblings came from Oklahoma recently where they endured some instability the first several weeks of their life. Their owner did not take steps to secure the puppies on the property and after they began to wander out of the yard, they were dumped in different parts of town. Thankfully some kind people were eventually able to round up all 5 puppies in the litter, along with their momma, and get them into a secure, temporary foster home while they waited for transport to Hope Animal Rescue of Iowa. He is scheduled for his neuter surgery and rabies vaccination on Tuesday, November 3. Simba and his siblings are sweet puppies with a lot of potential. They just need a family that can be patient with them as they learn how to trust people fully and help them gain experience with all the new things life has to offer them.

Read more about Simba

Simba is a sweet little guy with a big heart and an even bigger personality waiting to come out of its shell. At first, he might hang back and take a moment to size you up — but give him a treat and a little patience, and you'll meet the playful, wiggly goofball hiding underneath. Once he's comfortable, Simba is all energy: zoomies around the yard, pouncing on toys, and flopping down for belly rubs when he's finally worn out. He's looking for a family who will let him warm up at his own pace and then keep up with his playful spirit. If you've got a cozy lap, a few toys, and a little patience, Simba is ready to be your new best friend. He is working on house training since his life has been spent living outdoors until he came into our rescue. Simba is currently living with his sister Nala and foster dogs and a cat.

Siblings: Daisy (F), Nala (F), Boone (M) Simba (M)

If you are interested in meeting Simba, please complete an online application at https://hopeanimalrescueofiowa.duplie.com/forms/196/dog-application Adoption fee is $300 which includes spay/neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Simba fromHope Animal Rescue of IowaWest Des Moines, IA · listed Oct 14

7. Boone

Puppy (3 months 14 days) · Male · Black Mouth Cur / Labrador Retriever / Mixed (short coat) · 15 mi from Ankeny

Meet Boone!

Boone is an approximately 14-week-old, 18-pound rugged little country boy with a nose for adventure who may be a Black Mouth Cur/Lab mix. This sweet boy has a story to tell and a whole lot of growing, learning, and flourishing left to do!

Boone, four of his siblings, and their mama were rescued after roaming at large in a rural Oklahoma town for many weeks. Four of the puppies made their way to Iowa in mid-October and have been decompressing, adjusting to indoor life, and discovering what it means to be a puppy in a safe and loving environment.

Read more about Boone

Boone and his sister Daisy share a foster home and rely heavily on each other for security. Both are slowly learning to trust humans and are taking their cues from their foster siblings.

Of the two, Boone is the more timid and stand-offish, but underneath that uncertainty is a little boy who so desperately wants to be loved. He wants to be right there beside you, to be cuddled and reassured, but he hasn't quite found the courage to let his guard down yet. He just needs someone willing to let him move at his own pace and show him that the world can be a safe and wonderful place.

Together, Boone and Daisy are becoming typical, mischievous puppies! They find joy in every new discovery, get into a little trouble along the way, and love enjoying the cooler autumn days in their fenced-in backyard.

Boone would benefit tremendously from having a friendly, confident canine companion in his forever home to serve as a role model, help him navigate new experiences, and reinforce the lessons he’ll need to become a well-adjusted, confident dog. He needs a committed, patient adopter who understands that earning his trust takes time and consistency. With steady guidance, structure, encouragement, and plenty of love, Boone can build his confidence, develop his potential, and grow into the strong, loyal, and devoted companion he is meant to be.

Boone's Details:

Male | Approximately 14 weeks old
19 pounds | Possible Black Mouth Cur/Lab mix
Neuter and rabies vaccination scheduled for Wednesday, November 4
Would thrive with a friendly canine companion
Needs a patient, committed adopter to help build his confidence

Boone may need a little extra time and effort to feel safe, but there is something incredibly special about earning the trust of a timid little soul. Watching him discover the joy of being loved will make every step of the journey worthwhile.

Could you be the special person who gives Boone the patience, security, and unconditional love he needs to reach his full potential?

Siblings: Daisy (F), Nala (F), Simba (M) Boone (M)

If you are interested in meeting Boone, please complete an online application at https://hopeanimalrescueofiowa.duplie.com/forms/196/dog-application Adoption fee is $300 which includes spay/neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Boone fromHope Animal Rescue of IowaWest Des Moines, IA · listed Oct 14

8. Nala

Puppy (3 months 16 days) · Female · Black Mouth Cur / Labrador Retriever / Mixed (short coat) · 15 mi from Ankeny

Nala is an approximate 15-week-old, 25 lb., female, possible Black Mouth Cur/Lab mix puppy. She and her 3 siblings came from Oklahoma recently where they endured some instability the first several weeks of their life. Their owner did not take steps to secure the puppies on the property and after they began to wander out of the yard, they were dumped in different parts of town. Thankfully some kind people were eventually able to round up all 5 puppies in the litter, along with their momma, and get them into a secure, temporary foster home while they waited for transport to Hope Animal Rescue of Iowa. She is scheduled for her spay surgery and rabies vaccination on Tuesday, November 3. Nala and her siblings are sweet puppies with a lot of potential. They just need a family that can be patient with them as they learn how to trust people fully and help them gain experience with all the new things life has to offer them.

Read more about Nala

Nala is the kind of puppy who steals your heart quietly — one shy glance at a time. She's a little reserved when you first meet her, preferring to watch the world from a safe spot before deciding you're trustworthy. But it doesn't take long: a gentle voice, a soft toy, and suddenly she's bouncing around with her tail wagging a mile a minute. Playful to her core, Nala loves a good game of fetch, a squeaky toy, and any adventure that ends with cuddles. She's looking for a patient, loving home where she can blossom at her own pace — and reward you with endless affection once she does. She is working on house training since her life has been spent living outdoors until she came into our rescue. Nala is currently living with her brother Simba and foster dogs and a cat.

Siblings: Daisy (F), Nala (F), Boone (M) Simba (M)

If you are interested in meeting Nala, please complete an online application at https://hopeanimalrescueofiowa.duplie.com/forms/196/dog-application Adoption fee is $300 which includes spay/neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Nala fromHope Animal Rescue of IowaWest Des Moines, IA · listed Oct 14

9. Daisy

Puppy (3 months 14 days) · Female · Black Mouth Cur / Labrador Retriever / Mixed (short coat) · 15 mi from Ankeny

Meet Little Miss Daisy!

Daisy is an approximately 14-week-old, 18-pound little girl who may be a Black Mouth Cur/Lab mix. This sweet pup has a story to tell and a whole lot of growing, learning, and blooming left to do!

Daisy, four of her siblings, and their mama were rescued after roaming at large in a rural Oklahoma town for many weeks. Four of the puppies made their way to Iowa in mid-October and have spent the past weeks decompressing, adjusting to indoor life, and discovering what it means to be a puppy in a safe and loving environment.

Read more about Daisy

Daisy and her brother Boone, who are in the same foster home, rely heavily on each other for security, but both are slowly learning to trust humans and are taking their cues from their foster siblings. Daisy is the less timid of the two and is beginning to show her desire to be cuddled, loved, and reassured.

Together, Daisy and Boone are becoming typical, mischievous puppies! They find joy in every new discovery, get into a little trouble along the way, and love enjoying the cooler autumn days in their fenced-in backyard.

Daisy would benefit tremendously from having a friendly, furry companion in her forever home to help continue her education and build her confidence. She will need a dedicated, patient adopter who understands that trust takes time and is willing to invest the love, consistency, and encouragement needed to help her blossom into the wonderful dog she is meant to be.

Daisy's Details:
Female | Approximately 14 weeks old
18 pounds | Possible Black Mouth Cur/Lab mix
Spay and rabies vaccination scheduled for Wednesday, November 4
Would thrive with a friendly canine companion
Needs a patient, committed adopter to help build her confidence

Daisy may need a little extra time to feel safe, but watching her discover the joy of being loved will make every moment worthwhile. Could you be the special person who helps this little flower bloom?

Siblings: Nala (F), Simba (M), Boone (M)

If you are interested in meeting Daisy, please complete an online application at https://hopeanimalrescueofiowa.duplie.com/forms/196/dog-application Adoption fee is $300 which includes spay/neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Daisy fromHope Animal Rescue of IowaWest Des Moines, IA · listed Oct 14

10. Dan

Puppy (3 months 21 days) · Male · Shepherd / Mixed (medium coat) · 15 mi from Ankeny

Meet Dan! He is an approximate 16-week-old, male, 22 lb., possible Shepherd mix. Dan is a sweet, goofy puppy. He’s likely to grow into a big, active boy, so he’s looking for a family that’s ready to put in the time and effort to help him become the very best dog he can be. Right now, Dan is busy learning how to be a dog. He’s working on crate training, potty training, and walking on a leash, but he’s still very much a baby, and his new family will need to pick up where his foster home leaves off. The good news? He’s a smart little guy who wants to please, and he’s eager to learn. Dan is also a bit of a character. He loves sprawling out on cool floors, galloping awkwardly around the yard, and settling in with a good chewy stick. He’s quite talkative, too, and has a habit of muttering to himself when he’s sleepy. (We don’t know what he’s saying, but we suspect he has some strong opinions). He currently lives in a foster home with other dogs and cats and is doing well with both. Dan’s future family should be prepared for a large, energetic dog who will need regular exercise, mental stimulation, and continued training. With patience, consistency, and a little humor, though, we think Dan is going to grow up to be a pretty fantastic dog. If you’re ready for all the fun, work, and occasional chaos that comes with raising a puppy, Dan would love to meet you!

Read more about Dan

Siblings: Shay (F) Dan (M)

If you are interested in meeting Dan, please complete an online application at https://hopeanimalrescueofiowa.duplie.com/forms/196/dog-application Adoption fee is $300 which includes spay/neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Dan fromHope Animal Rescue of IowaWest Des Moines, IA · listed Oct 14

11. Smoosh

Puppy (9 months) · Male · Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 80 mi from Ankeny

This sweet bully loves other dogs, kids and cats, he loves attention and snuggling with you

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Smoosh fromCedar Valley Pit Bull RescueWaterloo, Ia · listed Oct 5

12. Luther

2 Years 1 Month · Male · Hound / Mixed · 82 mi from Ankeny

Meet Luther!This handsome Hound mix came to Safe Haven as a stray, and unfortunately, no one has come forward to claim him. While we’re still getting to know Luther and learning more about his personality, what we can tell you so far is that he is a very well tempered, easygoing guy. He walks nicely on a leash and has that classic Hound bark that lets you know he has something to say! Luther has handled shelter life ok and seems ready to find the people who will give him the second chance he deserves. Since he is still new to us, we’ll continue getting to know him and will update his profile as we learn more about his likes, personality, and what he’s looking for in his forever home. If you’re looking for a sweet Hound mix and don’t mind getting to know a new best friend along the way, come meet Luther!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Luther fromSafe Haven of Iowa CountyWilliamsburg, IA · listed Sep 17

13. Queen

Adult (3 years 1 month) · Female · Labrador Retriever / Brittany / Mixed (medium coat) · 99 mi from Ankeny

This girl is a QUEEN and she is ready to be treated like ROYALTY!

Queen, or Queenie as we have been calling her, is a beautiful black labrador mix - we've been told that she's perhaps a Brittany Lab mix, which could account for her petite size and playful demeanor!

Read more about Queen

Queenie is a loving and friendly girl, she's never met a stranger and she's got a playful and infectious energy that is sure to make you smile when you're with her. Queenie has lived easily with other dogs and children. We find her to be a higher energy dog so she will be best suited to an active and outgoing dog owner who knows they need to earn their couch potato time after burning off the labrador energy!

Queenie's adoption fee is $250 and includes her spay, microchip, current vaccines/(4DX)heartworm testing and current monthly preventatives. Queenie is seeking a home where she can live as an indoor companion only, if you would like to meet her please submit an adoption application at Adopthope.org. Last Hope requires that adopters have a history of having kept their companion animals as indoor pets only, kept altered and current on annual vaccines and vet care. Our adoption process includes a vet history check and a home visit.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Queen fromLast Hope Animal RescueCedar Rapids, IA · listed Sep 10

14. Izzy

Young · Female · Australian Shepherd / Mixed (medium coat) · 80 mi from Ankeny

Sweet girl who loves human affection. She likes toys and other dogs

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Izzy fromCedar Valley Pit Bull RescueWaterloo, Ia · listed Sep 4

15. Oliver

Senior (13 years 6 months) · Male · Dachshund / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 99 mi from Ankeny

Oliver is ready to share all of his love with you! Oliver is about as sweet as they come, he’s an aged to perfection senior who is so darn easy to love and easy to live with. Oliver is potty trained, eager to stick close to his people, and easy going on a leash. He’s low and lean like a dachshund, so needs your help getting up on the couch or bed to join you. While he isn’t much for snuggles, he’s a terrific at staying close by and resting quietly and will only need your help being lifted back down. Oliver does not enjoy being left home alone, at this stage of life he’s ready to be a companion to someone who has extra time to share with him. He does take a daily medication for anxiety but is otherwise very healthy for 13.5 years old! Oliver has lived very easily with dogs, cats and people of all ages.

Read more about Oliver

Oliver’s adoption fee is $250 and includes his neuter, current vaccines, Heartworm testing, and a microchip. If you would like to meet Oliver, please submit an adoption application at Adopthope.org. Last Hope requires that adopters have a history of having kept their pets; altered, as indoor pets, kept current on vaccines and annual wellness care. Our adoption process includes a vet history check and a home visit.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Oliver fromLast Hope Animal RescueCedar Rapids, IA · listed Sep 3

16. Penny

Adult (7 years 1 month) · Female · Chihuahua / Dachshund / Mixed (medium coat) · 99 mi from Ankeny

Penny is looking for a new home, and this sweet 7-year-old long-haired dachshund mix is ready to find her next cuddle buddy!

Read more about Penny

This little low rider has a lot to offer her future family! Penny is potty trained, can be trusted outside of a kennel while you're away, and walks like a dream on a leash. She's currently living in her foster home with two young kids and another small dog, and everyone is getting along wonderfully! Penny has a long and happy life ahead of her given her breed mix, so she needs someone that can offer her a stable and active home for her next chapter (which could be a great ten years!) She would love a dog companion near her size in her new home, too!

Whether you're looking for a couch companion, a walking buddy, or a little shadow to keep your lap warm, Penny might just be your girl.

Do you have room in your heart (and on your lap!) for this sweet girl?

Penny's adoption fee is $250 and includes her spay, microchip, current vaccinations and preventatives, plus a free basic obedience course with Cedar Run Company in Hiawatha. Last Hope requires that all animals be kept as indoor only pets and that adopters have a history of having kept their pets altered and current on vaccinations and preventative care. Our adoption process includes a background check, home visit, and a vet history check. If you would like to meet Penny, please submit an adoption application on our website, Adopthope.org.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Penny fromLast Hope Animal RescueCedar Rapids, IA · listed Sep 3

17. Roscoe

Adult (7 years 1 month) · Male · Shih Tzu / Maltese / Mixed (short coat) · 99 mi from Ankeny

I’m Roscoe, your hunk of burning love. I have a big heart and a big smile. I get along with all my humans and furry friends. I’m looking for a home where I can get some exercise and have people or another furry friend to play with me.

I have some pounds to lose but who doesn’t right? I love belly rubs and spending time with people. I’m the entire package, potty trained, plays, doesn’t chew on your stuff, can be left alone while you’re gone and have lots of love and snuggles to give.

Read more about Roscoe

Roscoe’s adoption fee is $250 and includes his neuter, microchip, current vaccines, heartworm test and monthly preventatives. Roscoe is seeking a home as an indoor companion only, please submit an adoption application at Adopthope.org if you would like to meet him! Last Hope requires that adopters have a history of having kept other pets altered, as indoor pets only, and kept current on vaccines and annual wellness visits. Our adoption process includes a vet history check and a home visit.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Roscoe fromLast Hope Animal RescueCedar Rapids, IA · listed Sep 2

18. Beefcake

Young (2 years) · Male · American Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 80 mi from Ankeny

Came from a hoarding situation, He is a big boy and is such a sweetheart. Loves the couch and wants nothing but love.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Beefcake fromCedar Valley Pit Bull RescueWaterloo, Ia · listed Aug 30

19. Murphy

Adult (1 year 2 months) · Male · Yellow Labrador Retriever (medium coat) · 39 mi from Ankeny

Murphy is a handsome yellow lab mix. When he first came in, he had some food/kennel aggression, but he has gotten much better! He's approximately 1 year old and weighs 75 pounds. He gets along with other dogs and kids. We think he would do best in a home with no small kids.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Murphy fromMarion County Humane SocietyKnoxville, IA · listed Jul 24

20. Charlie

Senior (13 years 7 months) · Male · Terrier / Beagle / Mixed (short coat) · 99 mi from Ankeny

Senior pup Charlie is about as happy go lucky as a guy can be! He surely isn't going to let a little old age slow him down and he's quickly become a social butterfly at doggie daycare!

Read more about Charlie

At just around 13.5 years old, Charlie is a nice "schmedium" sized dog - maybe a terrier/beagle mix, we can't say for sure what his breed mix is other than "cute"! We find Charlie to be a social dog, he's more apt to make friends with the animals in the room before he comes to new people to say hello. He isn't much of a lap pet, but is a terrific easy-going companion. Charlie was in rough shape when he first joined us, but a vet appointment to get him started on prescription allergy meds and pain management for severe arthritis have put some pep back in his step! His new owner will need to continue these prescription meds for him long-term.

Charlie's adoption fee is $250 and includes his neuter, microchip, current vaccines and preventatives. Charlie is seeking an indoor only home, if you would like to meet him please submit an adoption application for consideration at Adopthope.org. Last Hope requires that adopters have a history of having kept any pets altered, kept current on vaccines/annual vet visits and as indoor pets only. Our adoption process includes a vet history check and a home visit.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Charlie fromLast Hope Animal RescueCedar Rapids, IA · listed Jul 10

21. Trooper

Adult (1 year 6 months) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 99 mi from Ankeny

Some dogs are happy... and then there's Trooper. This guy is pure joy and sunshine in dog form! His tail is always wagging, his smile is contagious, and he approaches every day like it's the best day ever. Trooper is the kind of dog who can make you laugh without even trying!

Although Trooper is a pitbull, he has the fun loving, larger-than-life personality of a boxer or great dane. With his goofy antics, oversized personality, and bouncy enthusiasm, Trooper is here to remind everyone that life is meant to be enjoyed.

Read more about Trooper

Trooper is wonderful with other dogs, making him a fun addition to an active family. He has shown some signs of resource guarding so would do best with separate eating spaces and a home without children. He's still a little unsure about cats, but with slow introductions, he could do well with a dog-savvy feline companion.

Like any young, exuberant pup, Trooper is still polishing up his manners. He's working on keeping all four paws on the floor instead of greeting people with enthusiastic jumps, and he's learning not to be so mouthy when excited. The good news? He is eager to interact with people and will thrive with consistent training and plenty of opportunities to burn off his energy.

Trooper's adoption fee is $250 and includes his neuter, microchip, current vaccinations and preventatives, plus a free basic training course with Cedar Run Company. Last Hope requires that all animals be kept as indoor only pets and that adopters have a history of having kept their pets altered and current on wellness exams, vaccinations, and preventatives. Our adoption process includes a home visit and vet history check. If you would like to meet Trooper, please submit an adoption application for consideration on our website, Adopthope.org.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Trooper fromLast Hope Animal RescueCedar Rapids, IA · listed Jul 10

22. Dude

Adult (3 years 5 months) · Male · Shepherd / Mixed (medium coat) · 99 mi from Ankeny

Dude is a sweet, affectionate boy with a heart as big as his smile! Gentle by nature and motivated by both treats and praise, he's always eager to make new friends. While he enjoys going for walks, his favorite thing in the world is simply spending time with his people and soaking up all the love and attention they have to offer.

Dude gets along great with other dogs, has done well with children, and could potentially live with dog-savvy cats. He's truly a happy go lucky guy who seems to find joy in everyone he meets. You'd be hard-pressed to catch him in a bad mood!

Read more about Dude

When it's playtime, Dude loves romping around the yard with his toys and breaking into adorable galloping zoomies before happily flopping over for belly rubs and pets. If you're looking for a loyal companion who will greet every day with a wagging tail and an even bigger heart, Dude is ready to be your best friend!

Dude's adoption fee is $250 and includes his neuter, microchip, current vaccinations and preventatives, plus a free basic training course with Cedar Run Company in Hiawatha. Dude is seeking an indoor only home. Last Hope requires that adopters have a history of having kept their pets altered and current on vaccinations, preventative care, and wellness visits. Our adoption process includes a background check, home visit, and vet history check. If you would like to meet Dude, please submit an adoption application for consideration on our website, Adopthope.org.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Dude fromLast Hope Animal RescueCedar Rapids, IA · listed Jul 10

23. Qp

Adult (1 year 2 months) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Australian Shepherd / Mixed (short coat) · 99 mi from Ankeny

Looking for a pup who's a full meal deal? Meet Quarter Pounder, or QP for short! This lovable guy is packed with personality, extra sweetness, and a side of puppy fun.

QP is an incredibly sweet, playful pup with a personality as big as his heart! This curious guy loves to explore the world around him and is always ready for his next adventure. His favorite thing is making new puppy friends and he is always ready for a play session. He is however terrified of cats and would prefer a home without any.

Read more about Qp

While he enjoys treats, his true favorite is a good plush toy. He's also a smart cookie—he learned "sit" very quickly and is eager to keep learning with positive reinforcement.

He greets everyone with a happy tail wag and has the funniest little habit of carrying things wherever he goes. Sticks? Yep. Toys? Absolutely. His own leash? Of course! If he can pick it up, he'll proudly parade around with it. He even tries to walk himself sometimes!

QP rides wonderfully in the car, making him the perfect copilot for errands or adventures. As a young puppy, he's still working on potty training, so he'll need a patient family ready to help him learn and grow.

QP's adoption fee is $250 and includes his neuter, microchip, current vaccinations and preventatives, plus a free basic obedience course at Cedar Run Company in Hiawatha. QP is seeking an indoor only home with adopters who have a history of having kept their pets altered and current on vaccinations and preventatives. Our adoption process includes a vet history check and a home visit. If you would like to meet QP, please submit an adoption application through our website, Adopthope.org.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Qp fromLast Hope Animal RescueCedar Rapids, IA · listed Jun 18

Adopting a dog with children in Ankeny

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 Ankeny

Questions about adopting kid-friendly dogs in Ankeny

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

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Ankeny, Iowa, have 23 kid-friendly dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a kid-friendly dog in Ankeny?

The rescues with the most kid-friendly dogs near Ankeny right now are Hope Animal Rescue of Iowa (West Des Moines, IA), Last Hope Animal Rescue (Cedar Rapids, IA) and Cedar Valley Pit Bull Rescue (Waterloo, Ia). 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.