Columbus, OH

Kid-Friendly Dogs for Adoption in Columbus, OH: 10 Dogs Good with Children

Kid-Friendly Dogs up for adoption near Columbus, OH

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Columbus have 10 kid-friendly dogs up for adoption. Here are all 10, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.

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

1. Bojangles

Young · Male · Hound / Mountain Cur / Mixed (short coat) · 15 mi from Columbus

My name is Bojangles! But you can call me Bo. I'm a Hound/Mountain Cur? I'm 3 years old, 44 pounds. Low to medium energy. His foster parents are still learning with Bo, but this is what we know so far:

I'm housetrained and appropriate chewer.

Bojangles isn't fond of the crate. But working on it.

My foster parents can run errands and he's ok to left out.

Walking at Parks are a bit much for Bo with bikes and other dogs. He can be leash reactive when startled or approaching dogs. A quieter area is better with less foot traffic.

Bo loves car rides. Good in the car.

Good with children. Cats unknown.

Read more about Bojangles

Bo is good with other dogs. But might come on to strong at first but settles down. To learn more about Bojangles, apply on our website at https://www.powellpaws.org/adoption-application

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Bojangles fromPowell Animal Welfare Society (PAWS)Powell, OH · listed Nov 2

2. Bagel

Young · Female · Beagle (short coat) · 15 mi from Columbus

Hi, I'm Bagel ~4 year old female Beagle. I was picked up “running errands” outside a Family Dollar down in Athens. The folks at PAWS transported me to Columbus, where I have been living the good life with my foster family.

So far they say I am sweet, a little reserved, but starting to open up after 2 weeks of routine and stability. I love to snuggle up on the couch, or go for a walk. I'm good with kids and other dogs. I met a cat at the vet's office and was curious but cautious.

Read more about Bagel

I will do the hound howl in my crate for maybe 10 min then settle when the humans are gone. They think I might be ok left alone out of my crate too, I'm pretty chill. I'm still working on potty training, but my foster family says I'm 90% there, which for two weeks in a new place is very good. I am treat motivated....if you have the right treats (meaty are my favorite), and I love praise/pats from people.

I am looking for someone who will be patient as I warms up and then I will be your constant companion!

Bagel is currently going through treatment for heartworm, but can be still be adopted during this time if the adopter is onboard for taking her to all her appointments (paid for by PAWS @ our vet) and following exercise restrictions.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Bagel fromPowell Animal Welfare Society (PAWS)Powell, OH · listed Nov 2

3. Roma

Female · Hound / Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 15 mi from Columbus

Hi there, my name is Roma! I’m a female hound looking mixed breed and weigh about 55 pounds. I am about 4 years old and my foster mom says that I’m pretty much a perfect pup! I walk well on a leash, I’m potty trained, crate trained (though I also do fine left alone outside of the crate), good with other dogs and small humans, and just the sweetest girl. I also like to play with toys, especially the squeaky ones!

Read more about Roma

I was found as a stray running in the woods and unfortunately picked up a couple treatable diseases while there, one of them being heart worm. What this means is that I have a couple months or more of treatment I need to go through, which includes being on a strict exercise restriction during this time. I understand that this might make it hard for me to be picked right now, but I really wanted to see if my forever family is out there. My foster parents say I’m well worth it! I am currently available for foster to adopt so PAWS will cover all treatment costs with our vet. I am truly so sweet and loving and I promise to make you smile everyday!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Roma fromPowell Animal Welfare Society (PAWS)Powell, OH · listed Oct 7

4. Morgan

Young · Female · Collie (medium coat) · 12 mi from Columbus

Exuberant, jubilant and happy — that’s Morgan! This 9-month-old collie is looking for his forever home. He is a true puppy at heart, full of energy and wanting to be wherever the action is, but he’s also great at entertaining himself. Morgan will gleefully empty the entire toy basket over and over again, keeping you on your toes.

Read more about Morgan

Morgan loves everyone and everything. He’s currently in a foster home with a pack of dogs, finding his place and learning acceptable behavior on a daily basis. His foster family is working on “sit” and “wait,” and he is motivated to learn as long as his person is nearby and treats are involved! Morgan absolutely loves the outdoors and will circle the entire yard at a sprinter’s pace. In fact, he especially loves a good game of chase, so he would likely do best in a home with a fenced-in yard and another dog buddy to play with.

When this fun-loving, playful guy needs rest, he will happily settle down for belly rubs and attention. Like all puppies, Morgan likes to chew and will need supervision until he outgrows this behavior. Luckily, he loves his crate and does great in it when he’s home alone.

This sweet pup is a true gem, and with continued training, Morgan will be a great addition to a loving home.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Morgan fromAlmost Home Dog Rescue of OhioDublin, OH · listed Sep 30

5. Benny

Puppy (3 months 1 day) · Male · Labrador Retriever / Hound · 18 mi from Columbus

Introducing Benny! Benny came to DASH when his owner basically dumped him at the rescue. He is a very sweet, smart, loving young pup, who loves everyone he meets. He is great with the other dogs in his foster home. He is working on crate training and potty training and is doing really well in a very short time. His new family will need to continue to work with him on these things so he can grow up to be the best pup he can be. He does walk well on a leash already! This guy has not been around kids or cats, but feel due to his age, he would be ok with both with proper introductions. He would make a family a great companion!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Benny fromDanielle's Animal Safe HavenAshville, oh · listed Sep 22

6. Ozzy

Young (1 year 6 months) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed · 18 mi from Columbus

Welcome Ozzy! Ozzy came to DASH with his mom, Tilly, when their elderly owner could no longer care for them. He is a young guy, who loves his toys and playing with the other small dogs in his foster home. He is also ok with kids and cats. He loves using the doggie door to go outside to potty, but will also use pee pads. This boy can sometimes be a bit vocal, so an apartment may not be the best fit for him. He is crate trained and walks well on a leash. He is ready for a family or person who wants to take him on adventures and give him the best life!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Ozzy fromDanielle's Animal Safe HavenAshville, oh · listed Sep 14

7. Lambchop Tuscarawas

Puppy (5 months 24 days) · Male · Poodle (Miniature) (medium coat) · 16 mi from Columbus

Meet Lambchop! This adorable pup has a big personality and a wonderful mix of playful energy and lap-loving sweetness. Lambchop’s favorite things include squeaky toys, crinkle toys, fetch, tug-of-war, and zoomies around the backyard. Once he’s worn himself out, he’s happy to curl up on your lap for cuddles. Friendly and outgoing, Lambchop enjoys being around people and does well with other dogs, cats, and children over 8. A companion dog isn’t required, provided he has people who have plenty of time for play, attention, and puppy adventures. Lambchop is making great progress with housetraining and signals when he needs to go outside.

Read more about Lambchop Tuscarawas

His new family should continue a consistent potty routine and expect occasional accidents as he learns. He currently eats three meals a day and is always enthusiastic about treats! Leash walking is still a work in progress. Some days he’s eager to try, while other days he prefers backyard fetch. A securely fenced physical yard is required so he has a safe place to run and play while he builds confidence on walks. Loud noises can make him unsure, so his new family should focus on this area with patience and understanding. A calm, supportive home that can gently help him build confidence and feel secure will be the best fit for Lambchop. Lambchop has no known medical issues. His ideal family will embrace his puppy energy and provide daily exercise, positive-reinforcement training, and plenty of love as he grows. If your idea of a great day includes backyard games, puppy antics, and a tired little dog curled up in your lap, Lambchop might be your perfect match! Lamb chops adoption fee is $750, and he is being fostered in central Ohio. He has been neutered, microchipped, received his rabies, DHPP, and Bordetella vaccines, and started on heartworm, flea, and tick prevention.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Lambchop Tuscarawas fromOhio Fuzzy Pawz Shih Tzu Rescue, Inc.Pataskala, OH · listed Aug 30

8. Phoebe

Young (11 months) · Female · Chinese Crested-Hairless · 16 mi from Columbus

Meet Phoebe, a spunky young Chinese Crested puppy who packs a whole lot of personality, affection and fun into her 14-pound frame! Phoebe believes life is better with squeaky toys, crinkly toys—and especially yellow toys! She loves playing tug-of-war, tossing her toys, wrestling and even playing fetch. When she isn’t busy having fun, this affectionate little sweetheart is happy to snuggle into bed with a favorite human or two. Phoebe enjoys long walks, playdates with small/medium dogs and splashing through rain puddles. Grass, however, is highly overrated in her opinion! She will walk through it when necessary, but she would much rather find a soft pillow than sit on grass or a hard floor.

Read more about Phoebe

Smart and eager to please, Phoebe is motivated by both treats and affection. She already understands “kennel,” comes when her name is called and is learning “sit”—provided an appropriately comfortable sitting surface can be found! Phoebe would thrive with a playful, similarly sized canine companion or with someone who spends plenty of time at home. She enjoys children, but because of her small size and enthusiastic personality, children over age eight would be the best fit. Large dogs may be overwhelming for her, and she is still trying to figure out exactly what cats are all about. A fenced yard would be wonderful but is not required. Phoebe uses pee pads and is continuing to work on her housetraining. She will do best with a consistent routine, a designated potty area and a family committed to helping her continue making progress. Her new family should also be prepared to maintain her regular bathing and skincare routine, as she can develop the mild acne commonly seen in young Chinese Cresteds. Fortunately, she is a cooperative little bathing beauty—especially when her favorite human joins her in the shower! With plenty of toys, cozy places to sit, cute clothes for chilly weather and people who will adore her, Phoebe is ready to bring nonstop smiles and affection to one very lucky family. If you’re looking for a playful, loving and wonderfully entertaining companion, Phoebe may be your perfect match! Phoebe’s adoption donation is $750, and she is currently being fostered in the Cleveland, Ohio area. She has been spayed, microchipped, received her rabies, distemper/parvo, bivalent canine influenza and Bordetella vaccines, started on heartworm prevention, tested negative for heartworms, and is on flea and tick prevention. To apply to adopt Phoebe, visit www.ohiofuzzypawz.com/forms⁠�.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Phoebe fromOhio Fuzzy Pawz Shih Tzu Rescue, Inc.Pataskala, OH · listed Aug 7

9. Marley P

11 Months · Male · Poodle (unknown type) / Mixed · 18 mi from Columbus

Stop and say hello to Marley P! This super sweet doodle boy came to DASH when his owners health no longer allowed them to care for a puppy with his energy. He was found by the original owners tied to a pole on a country road when he was a very young puppy. They were determined that he not be abandoned again so into the rescue he came! He is still very much a puppy, loves to play fetch with his favorite balls and tries to get all the other doggies in his foster home to play as well. He is working on his crate training, he is not a fan and will whine and bark, so he is not crated regularly in his foster home.

Read more about Marley P

He walks well on a leash and is potty trained. He loves everyone he has met including the fosters grandkids who range in age from 6-9. He may not be great with really small kids just due to his enthusiasm and still learning what personal space is. He has also been around cats, and while he doesn't hurt them, he does think they want to play and so proper introductions would be best. He also loves to sleep in bed with his foster and needs to be touching his person. This boy is ready to find an active home who will take him on adventures and continue helping him be the best boy he can be and give him all the love and attention he so deserves.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Marley P fromDanielle's Animal Safe HavenAshville, oh · listed Jul 24

10. Peanut

Puppy (8 months) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 12 mi from Columbus

DOB: 1/18/2026

Hi there, I’m Peanut!
I’m a Chihuahua mix puppy and pretty much everything in the world is brand new and exciting to me. I’ve got a whole lot of energy packed into my little body and I love to run and play and explore. But here’s my secret. When the playing is done, all I really want to do is climb into your lap and snuggle up close. I’m a serious cuddle bug.
I follow my foster mom everywhere she goes. Kitchen, couch, you name it, I’m right behind her like a tiny shadow. And when it’s mealtime I sit and wait so patiently because I already know good things come to puppies who are sweet.

Read more about Peanut

I get along with just about everybody. The kittens, the older cats, the big dogs, I love them all and I just want to be friends. I think the world is a wonderful place full of people and animals to love. I also love going to new places and seeing new things. Adventure is my middle name.

I’m doing really well with my crate training and my potty training too. I’m even learning to ring a little bell when I need to go outside, and I’d love a person who keeps helping me get really good at it.

At the end of the day I curl up with my foster family and my foster sibling and I feel so safe and happy. That’s all I want for the rest of my life. Someone to love, a warm spot to snuggle into, and a few new adventures along the way.

Could that someone be you?

I am in a foster home so if you are interested in adoptiong me, please fill out an online adoption application at https://colonycats.org/adoption_app.html to expedite the process. Due to the large number of inquiries we receive, we are unable to respond to emails quickly.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Peanut fromColony Cats (& dogs)Dublin, oh · listed Jun 17

Adopting a dog with children in Columbus

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 Columbus

Questions about adopting kid-friendly dogs in Columbus

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

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Columbus, Ohio, have 10 kid-friendly dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

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

The rescues with the most kid-friendly dogs near Columbus right now are Powell Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) (Powell, OH), Danielle's Animal Safe Haven (Ashville, oh) and Ohio Fuzzy Pawz Shih Tzu Rescue, Inc. (Pataskala, OH). 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.