Kid-Friendly Dogs for Adoption in Utica, NY: 13 Dogs Good with Children
By Dogs of the Day · Updated

Rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Utica have 13 kid-friendly dogs up for adoption. Here are all 13, 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 Utica? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Jordan
Adult · Female · Pit Bull Terrier · 45 mi from Utica




Meet Jordan!She's a one-of-a-kind 2-year-old pit mix with adorable cow-print fur and two beautiful mismatched eyes, one blue and one golden brown. She has a gentle, friendly nature and gets along well with kids and other dogs. Smart and well-mannered, Jordan walks nicely on a lead and knows “sit” and “paw.” She’s a happy traveler who loves watching the world go by from the car window. Hanging out at home? That's okay. She also enjoys tasty treats and booty scratches. When she’s feeling especially affectionate, she’ll happily shower you with kisses. Could this sweet girl be your new best friend? Jordan hasn't met any cats yet, so she'll need some formal testing if she may have a feline brother or sister.Current Weight: 56 lbsAdoption Fee: $250To apply: fcrspca.org/adopt
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
2. Pluto
Puppy (3 months 7 days) · Male · Boxer / Mixed · 30 mi from Utica




Interested in this dog?
Your new pet is fostered in Earlville, NY - Contact Lia at 201-954-3489 or, you can email her at lia@eastcoastadoptions.com.
You can also fill out an application for this dog at http://eastcoastadoptions.com
We are a registered 501(c)3 Non Profit Organization - A Dogs In Danger Rescue, Inc. company.
Read more about Pluto
Our dogs and puppies are rescued from shelters and rescues in overpopulated areas of the country and are now available for adoption!
All are up to date on vaccines, vet checked, health certified and dewormed.
Hours: Please only call between the hours of 8:30am-8:30pm to come see our dogs looking for homes. Appointments are 7 days a week and most holidays as long as someone is available to see you. If you get voicemail, please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can!
Many of our locations offer crates, playpens and starter kits (leash, collar, food, toys, treats, bowl etc) for a donation.
We do same day adoptions. An application is required before coming to visit our adoptable dogs.
We are committed to saving dogs and puppies in need, finding them loving homes, and offering support and education to ensure a successful forever solution for both our dogs and the humans who adopt them.
You can find additional information and all of our adoptable dogs listed on our website: http://eastcoastadoptions.com - where you can also fill out an application, find out more about us including our fosters or, simply drop us a line for more information! We look forward to hearing from you and completing your family with another family member!
Eastcoastadoptions.com
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
3. Shadow
Senior · Female · Jack Russell Terrier · 49 mi from Utica


Introducing Shadow!Shadow is a sweet, 19-pound, 9-year-old Jack Russell Terrier mix. She’s currently (as of October 7) being treated for a kidney infection and UTI; but the meds are working well, she’s perked right up, and is back on the go! As of now she is looking for a medical forever foster! Shadow loves being close to her people and enjoys the company of dog friends, too. She settles nicely in a kennel overnight or while you run errands. In addition to being good with other dogs, she does nicely with kids and cats, too. To set up a meet & greet, you can contact HumaneCNY at (315) 457-8762 or info@humanecny.org; or you can begin the adoption process for her right now by filling out an application on our website, www.humanecny.org.Contact HumaneCNY if interested in this animal. You can fill out application to adopt at the shelter.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
4. Lily
Adult (2 years 4 months) · Female · Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 30 mi from Utica


Interested in this dog?
THIS IS AN OWNER REFERRAL DOG CURRENTLY LOCATED IN Moravia NY.
ECA HAS NOT EVALUATED THIS DOG AND HAS MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES REGARDING EITHER THE TEMPERAMENT OR THE HEALTH OF THE DOG.
YOU ARE ADVISED TO CONTACT THE OWNER DIRECTLY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS DOG AND TO DETERMINE IF THE DOG MIGHT BE RIGHT FOR YOUR SITUATION.
ALL INQUIRIES REGARDING THIS DOG MUST BE DIRECTED TO THE CURRENT OWNER & ECA HAS NO INVOLVEMENT IN ANY ADOPTION THAT MAY RESULT BESIDES PASSING ON YOUR APPLICATION TO THE OWNER AFTER REVIEW.
Read more about Lily
ALL INQUIRIES OR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THIS DOG SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO: Melanie @ 315-604-7542 or email at melanie_jd518@yahoo.com
Or, contact Sarah at 908-745-9191. You can email her at sarah@eastcoastadoptions.com. You can also fill out an application for this dog at http://eastcoastadoptions.com
We are a registered 501(c)3 Non Profit Organization - A Dogs In Danger Rescue, Inc. company.
Our dogs and puppies are rescued from shelters and rescues in overpopulated areas of the country and are now available for adoption!
All are up to date on vaccines, vet checked, health certified and dewormed.
Hours: Please only call between the hours of 8:30am-8:30pm to come see our dogs looking for homes. Appointments are 7 days a week and most holidays as long as someone is available to see you. If you get voicemail, please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can!
Many of our locations offer crates, playpens and starter kits (leash, collar, food, toys, treats, bowl etc.) for a donation.
We do same day adoptions. An application is required before coming to visit our adoptable dogs.
We are committed to saving dogs and puppies in need, finding them loving homes, and offering support and education to ensure a successful forever solution for both our dogs and the humans who adopt them.
You can find additional information and all of our adoptable dogs listed on our website: http://eastcoastadoptions.com - where you can also fill out an application, find out more about us including our fosters or, simply drop us a line for more information! We look forward to hearing from you and completing your family with another family member!
Eastcoastadoptions.com
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
5. Nova
Puppy (2 months 23 days) · Female · Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 30 mi from Utica



Interested in this dog?
Your new pet is fostered in Delanson, NY - Contact Sarah (call or text) at 908-745-9191 or you can email her at sarah@eastcoastadoptions.com. You can also fill out an application for this dog at http://eastcoastadoptions.com
We are a registered 501(c)3 Non Profit Organization - A Dogs In Danger Rescue, Inc. company.
Read more about Nova
Our dogs and puppies are rescued from shelters and rescues in overpopulated areas of the country and are now available for adoption!
All are up to date on vaccines, vet checked, health certified and dewormed.
Hours: Please only call between the hours of 8:30am-8:30pm to come see our dogs looking for homes. Appointments are 7 days a week and most holidays as long as someone is available to see you. If you get voicemail, please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can!
Many of our locations offer crates, playpens and starter kits (leash, collar, food, toys, treats, bowl etc) for a donation.
We do same day adoptions. An application is required before coming to visit our adoptable dogs.
We are committed to saving dogs and puppies in need, finding them loving homes, and offering support and education to ensure a successful forever solution for both our dogs and the humans who adopt them.
You can find additional information and all of our adoptable dogs listed on our website: http://eastcoastadoptions.com - where you can also fill out an application, find out more about us including our fosters or, simply drop us a line for more information! We look forward to hearing from you and completing your family with another family member!
Eastcoastadoptions.com
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
6. Brahman
Puppy (2 months 17 days) · Male · Rottweiler / German Shepherd Dog / Mixed · 30 mi from Utica


Interested in this dog?
Your new pet is fostered in Yorkville, NY - Contact Sarah (call or text) at 908-745-9191 or you can email her at sarah@eastcoastadoptions.com. You can also fill out an application for this dog at http://eastcoastadoptions.com
We are a registered 501(c)3 Non Profit Organization - A Dogs In Danger Rescue, Inc. company.
Read more about Brahman
Our dogs and puppies are rescued from shelters and rescues in overpopulated areas of the country and are now available for adoption!
All are up to date on vaccines, vet checked, health certified and dewormed.
Hours: Please only call between the hours of 8:30am-8:30pm to come see our dogs looking for homes. Appointments are 7 days a week and most holidays as long as someone is available to see you. If you get voicemail, please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can!
Many of our locations offer crates, playpens and starter kits (leash, collar, food, toys, treats, bowl etc) for a donation.
We do same day adoptions. An application is required before coming to visit our adoptable dogs.
We are committed to saving dogs and puppies in need, finding them loving homes, and offering support and education to ensure a successful forever solution for both our dogs and the humans who adopt them.
You can find additional information and all of our adoptable dogs listed on our website: http://eastcoastadoptions.com - where you can also fill out an application, find out more about us including our fosters or, simply drop us a line for more information! We look forward to hearing from you and completing your family with another family member!
Eastcoastadoptions.com
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
7. Longhorn
Puppy (3 months 7 days) · Female · German Shepherd Dog / Mixed · 30 mi from Utica



Interested in this dog?
Your new pet is fostered in Yorkville, NY - Contact Sarah (call or text) at 908-745-9191 or you can email her at sarah@eastcoastadoptions.com. You can also fill out an application for this dog at http://eastcoastadoptions.com
We are a registered 501(c)3 Non Profit Organization - A Dogs In Danger Rescue, Inc. company.
Read more about Longhorn
Our dogs and puppies are rescued from shelters and rescues in overpopulated areas of the country and are now available for adoption!
All are up to date on vaccines, vet checked, health certified and dewormed.
Hours: Please only call between the hours of 8:30am-8:30pm to come see our dogs looking for homes. Appointments are 7 days a week and most holidays as long as someone is available to see you. If you get voicemail, please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can!
Many of our locations offer crates, playpens and starter kits (leash, collar, food, toys, treats, bowl etc) for a donation.
We do same day adoptions. An application is required before coming to visit our adoptable dogs.
We are committed to saving dogs and puppies in need, finding them loving homes, and offering support and education to ensure a successful forever solution for both our dogs and the humans who adopt them.
You can find additional information and all of our adoptable dogs listed on our website: http://eastcoastadoptions.com - where you can also fill out an application, find out more about us including our fosters or, simply drop us a line for more information! We look forward to hearing from you and completing your family with another family member!
Eastcoastadoptions.com
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
8. Heifer
Puppy (2 months 21 days) · Female · German Shepherd Dog / Rottweiler / Mixed · 30 mi from Utica



Interested in this dog?
Your new pet is fostered in Yorkville, NY - Contact Sarah (call or text) at 908-745-9191 or you can email her at sarah@eastcoastadoptions.com. You can also fill out an application for this dog at http://eastcoastadoptions.com
We are a registered 501(c)3 Non Profit Organization - A Dogs In Danger Rescue, Inc. company.
Read more about Heifer
Our dogs and puppies are rescued from shelters and rescues in overpopulated areas of the country and are now available for adoption!
All are up to date on vaccines, vet checked, health certified and dewormed.
Hours: Please only call between the hours of 8:30am-8:30pm to come see our dogs looking for homes. Appointments are 7 days a week and most holidays as long as someone is available to see you. If you get voicemail, please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can!
Many of our locations offer crates, playpens and starter kits (leash, collar, food, toys, treats, bowl etc) for a donation.
We do same day adoptions. An application is required before coming to visit our adoptable dogs.
We are committed to saving dogs and puppies in need, finding them loving homes, and offering support and education to ensure a successful forever solution for both our dogs and the humans who adopt them.
You can find additional information and all of our adoptable dogs listed on our website: http://eastcoastadoptions.com - where you can also fill out an application, find out more about us including our fosters or, simply drop us a line for more information! We look forward to hearing from you and completing your family with another family member!
Eastcoastadoptions.com
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
9. Puppy E
Puppy (2 months 26 days) · Female · Labrador Retriever / Bulldog / Mixed · 30 mi from Utica


Interested in this dog?
Your new pet is fostered in Sherburne, NY - Contact Emily at 607-316-8210 or you can email them at bentiem26@gmail.com. You can also fill out an application for this dog at http://eastcoastadoptions.com
We are a registered 501(c)3 Non Profit Organization - A Dogs In Danger Rescue, Inc. company.
Read more about Puppy E
Our dogs and puppies are rescued from shelters and rescues in overpopulated areas of the country and are now available for adoption!
All are up to date on vaccines, vet checked, health certified and dewormed.
Hours: Please only call between the hours of 8:30am-8:30pm to come see our dogs looking for homes. Appointments are 7 days a week and most holidays as long as someone is available to see you. If you get voicemail, please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can!
Many of our locations offer crates, playpens and starter kits (leash, collar, food, toys, treats, bowl etc) for a donation.
We do same day adoptions. An application is required before coming to visit our adoptable dogs.
We are committed to saving dogs and puppies in need, finding them loving homes, and offering support and education to ensure a successful forever solution for both our dogs and the humans who adopt them.
You can find additional information and all of our adoptable dogs listed on our website: http://eastcoastadoptions.com - where you can also fill out an application, find out more about us including our fosters or, simply drop us a line for more information! We look forward to hearing from you and completing your family with another family member!
Eastcoastadoptions.com
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
10. Asha Oriskany Falls NY
Puppy (4 months 6 days) · Female · Pointer / Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 30 mi from Utica



Interested in this dog?
Your new pet is fostered in Smyrna, NY - Contact Sarah (call or text) at 908-745-9191 or you can email her at sarah@eastcoastadoptions.com. You can also fill out an application for this dog at http://eastcoastadoptions.com
We are a registered 501(c)3 Non Profit Organization - A Dogs In Danger Rescue, Inc. company.
Read more about Asha Oriskany Falls NY
Our dogs and puppies are rescued from shelters and rescues in overpopulated areas of the country and are now available for adoption!
All are up to date on vaccines, vet checked, health certified and dewormed.
Hours: Please only call between the hours of 8:30am-8:30pm to come see our dogs looking for homes. Appointments are 7 days a week and most holidays as long as someone is available to see you. If you get voicemail, please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can!
Many of our locations offer crates, playpens and starter kits (leash, collar, food, toys, treats, bowl etc) for a donation.
We do same day adoptions. An application is required before coming to visit our adoptable dogs.
We are committed to saving dogs and puppies in need, finding them loving homes, and offering support and education to ensure a successful forever solution for both our dogs and the humans who adopt them.
You can find additional information and all of our adoptable dogs listed on our website: http://eastcoastadoptions.com - where you can also fill out an application, find out more about us including our fosters or, simply drop us a line for more information! We look forward to hearing from you and completing your family with another family member!
Eastcoastadoptions.com
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
11. Nanook
Senior · Male · Labrador Retriever / Husky / Mixed · 49 mi from Utica




From Nanook’s current foster family:Nanook is a 9-year-old husky/shepherd/lab mix VERY deserving of a loving retirement home and comfy couch. He has come into our home from an uncertain past but has proven to be sweet and calm. His eye area is still healing from a previous injury. He walks great on a leash and rides well in a car.We started him in a kennel when we weren't home, but we quickly realized he wasn't going to destroy anything so once he settles in he is safe to be trusted out of a kennel.He is great with his foster brother, they mostly ignore each other. Like a true sibling he just wants equal attention.
Read more about Nanook
He sometimes gets excited when he meets other dogs or takes a minute to warm up. We've seen no food aggression at feeding times. Nanook is very good with our child — gentle and loves to cuddle on her. We have seen no bad triggers with any kind of a person for him. Needs a home that understands husky behavior and noises, such as the-old-man-grumbles and the cute mini-howls when he wants something. Will need long-term medicine for his eye and anal fissures. Takes pills and receives eye drops without any problems. He is a perfect blend of an old man dog with bouts of a happy and playful soul!To set up a meet & greet or ask questions about Nanook, you can contact HumaneCNY at (315) 457-8762 or info@humanecny.org; or you can begin the adoption process for this great dog right now by filling out an application on our website, www.humanecny.org.Contact HumaneCNY if interested in this animal. You can fill out application to adopt at the shelter.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
12. Juno Rochester NY
Puppy (5 months 15 days) · Female · Terrier / Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 30 mi from Utica





Interested in this dog?
Your new pet is fostered in Rochester, NY - Contact Lia at 201-954-3489 or, you can email her at lia@eastcoastadoptions.com.
You can also fill out an application for this dog at http://eastcoastadoptions.com
We are a registered 501(c)3 Non Profit Organization - A Dogs In Danger Rescue, Inc. company.
Read more about Juno Rochester NY
Our dogs and puppies are rescued from shelters and rescues in overpopulated areas of the country and are now available for adoption!
All are up to date on vaccines, vet checked, health certified and dewormed.
Hours: Please only call between the hours of 8:30am-8:30pm to come see our dogs looking for homes. Appointments are 7 days a week and most holidays as long as someone is available to see you. If you get voicemail, please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can!
Many of our locations offer crates, playpens and starter kits (leash, collar, food, toys, treats, bowl etc) for a donation.
We do same day adoptions. An application is required before coming to visit our adoptable dogs.
We are committed to saving dogs and puppies in need, finding them loving homes, and offering support and education to ensure a successful forever solution for both our dogs and the humans who adopt them.
You can find additional information and all of our adoptable dogs listed on our website: http://eastcoastadoptions.com - where you can also fill out an application, find out more about us including our fosters or, simply drop us a line for more information! We look forward to hearing from you and completing your family with another family member!
Eastcoastadoptions.com
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
13. Buddy Tavernier FL
Adult (7 years 11 months) · Male · Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 30 mi from Utica



Interested in this dog?
THIS IS AN OWNER REFERRAL DOG CURRENTLY LOCATED IN Tavernier Florida.
ECA HAS NOT EVALUATED THIS DOG AND HAS MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES REGARDING EITHER THE TEMPERAMENT OR THE HEALTH OF THE DOG.
YOU ARE ADVISED TO CONTACT THE OWNER DIRECTLY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS DOG AND TO DETERMINE IF THE DOG MIGHT BE RIGHT FOR YOUR SITUATION.
ALL INQUIRIES REGARDING THIS DOG MUST BE DIRECTED TO THE CURRENT OWNER & ECA HAS NO INVOLVEMENT IN ANY ADOPTION THAT MAY RESULT BESIDES PASSING ON YOUR APPLICATION TO THE OWNER AFTER REVIEW.
Read more about Buddy Tavernier FL
ALL INQUIRIES OR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THIS DOG SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO: Robert 530-263-3016 or email at rwolaver@icloud.com
Or, contact Sarah at 908-745-9191. You can email her at sarah@eastcoastadoptions.com. You can also fill out an application for this dog at http://eastcoastadoptions.com
We are a registered 501(c)3 Non Profit Organization - A Dogs In Danger Rescue, Inc. company.
Our dogs and puppies are rescued from shelters and rescues in overpopulated areas of the country and are now available for adoption!
All are up to date on vaccines, vet checked, health certified and dewormed.
Hours: Please only call between the hours of 8:30am-8:30pm to come see our dogs looking for homes. Appointments are 7 days a week and most holidays as long as someone is available to see you. If you get voicemail, please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can!
Many of our locations offer crates, playpens and starter kits (leash, collar, food, toys, treats, bowl etc.) for a donation.
We do same day adoptions. An application is required before coming to visit our adoptable dogs.
We are committed to saving dogs and puppies in need, finding them loving homes, and offering support and education to ensure a successful forever solution for both our dogs and the humans who adopt them.
You can find additional information and all of our adoptable dogs listed on our website: http://eastcoastadoptions.com - where you can also fill out an application, find out more about us including our fosters or, simply drop us a line for more information! We look forward to hearing from you and completing your family with another family member!
Eastcoastadoptions.com
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
Adopting a dog with children in Utica
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 Utica
- East Coast Adoption AgencySherburne, NY · 10 kid-friendly dogs above
- Humane Association of CNYLiverpool, Ny · 2 kid-friendly dogs above
- Regional SPCAGloversville, NY · 1 kid-friendly dog above
Questions about adopting kid-friendly dogs in Utica
How many kid-friendly dogs are up for adoption in Utica?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Utica, New York, have 13 kid-friendly dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a kid-friendly dog in Utica?
The rescues with the most kid-friendly dogs near Utica right now are East Coast Adoption Agency (Sherburne, NY), Humane Association of CNY (Liverpool, Ny) and Regional SPCA (Gloversville, NY). 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.