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

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Lyla
Young · Female · Coonhound / Mixed · 13 mi from Pittsburgh




There’s a little extra love in the air this fall, and her name is Lyla! This 45-pound coonhound mix is about 3 years old and has been waiting for a home since April. She was found as a stray in West Virginia, and now that she’s settling into foster life in Pittsburgh, we’re hoping her forever family is close by.Lyla is sweet, affectionate, and always up for a good sniff. She loves giving kisses, getting her ears rubbed, and hanging out with her people. She’ll happily try any treat you offer, takes it gently from your hand, and likes to keep a few favorite bones in her chewing rotation.She gets along beautifully with her 2-year-old foster brother and lets out a bark when she’s ready for him to join her for a romp.
Read more about Lyla
She respects his boundaries during play and is generally quiet around the house. Once she’s sniffed her way around the yard, she’s happy to settle by the window and keep tabs on the neighborhood.Like any hound with a nose for adventure, Lyla is still working on loose-leash walking and basic commands. An interesting scent can get her full attention in a hurry! She’s also figured out that kitchen counters sometimes hold snacks, so her family will want to keep food out of reach.After a little adventure, Lyla is all about the cozy life. A few treats help her settle into her crate, where she rests peacefully for naps and overnight. Give her a soft blanket and a spot on the couch, and you might find all 45 pounds of her curled into the tiniest little ball. Lyla is housebroken, spayed, microchipped, and up to date on vaccinations and vet care. She reportedly did well when tested with cats and children.Lyla will be available for adoption on or after November 8. If your home has room for a curious nose and a big heart, we’d love for you to meet her!Apply www.pawsacrosspittsburgh.com/adoptPaws Across Pittsburgh · Springdale, PA 15144 · KL #16182
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
2. Roscoe
Adult · Male · Hound / Mixed · 13 mi from Pittsburgh




Meet Roscoe! At approximately 3 years old and 38 lbs, Roscoe is a sweet, gentle boy who gets along wonderfully with everyone — dogs, cats, kids, and even babies! He’s searching for a loving family to call his own. Roscoe is house-trained and working on his crate training. While he tolerates being crated for a few hours at a time during the day, he’d much rather be curled up on the couch or snoozing in his bed right next to yours!This playful guy loves spending time with his people and playing with other dogs. He also walks well on a leash and is always ready for his next adventure. Roscoe is still learning some of the basics, including commands like "sit," so his future family should be excited to continue helping him learn and grow.
Read more about Roscoe
He has a gentle nature, but sometimes his excitement gets the best of him — he’s also working on keeping all four paws on the ground when greeting his favorite people.Roscoe is neutered, up to date on vaccinations, and will be available for adoption beginning November 8th, 2026. Could Roscoe be the missing piece to your family? Apply directly at www.pawsacrosspittsburgh.com/adopt through Paws Across Pittsburgh, Springdale, PA 15144, KL#16182.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
3. Kakashi
Adult · Male · Shiba Inu / Mixed · 13 mi from Pittsburgh



Toss a squeaky toy and watch Kashi light up. He’ll chase it down, carry it back with pride and ask for one more throw. This young Shiba Inu, about 2 to 3 years old, is 23 pounds of sweetness with a devotion to treats and a nose that has already discovered the joys of a snuffle mat. His growth in one month, from a pup with skin sores from a flea infection, to lovable, happy pup has been so great to see.When the toys are put away, Kashi becomes a champion napper. He rolls up in his bed, claims a spot on the couch and gladly shares a cuddle. He has a gift for winning people over. He has taken a shine to his foster mom, and he’s quick to flop onto his back for his foster dad.
Read more about Kakashi
Even a trip to the vet doesn’t rattle him. His vets gave him a 1 on their fear, anxiety and stress score and described him as very sweet and cooperative. He’s stayed in another home while his foster was on vacation and got along great with the other dogs there. He’s been to bingo night, softball games, the park, and the vet, and he’s done great in all situations. His a fairly good car passenger too, although he does want to see the world through windows.Kashi has the basics down, too. He’s housebroken, knows his name and comes when called. He’s a willing walking partner in his harness. He’s working on crate training. A treat will lead him right into his crate, and he’ll settle quickly. He does have a little separation anxiety at first, so letting him settle for the night or placing the crate where he can see the owner might help him get over some anxiety. However, his foster has left him outside of the crate during the day, and he hasn’t chewed on anything as long as food isn’t within reach.Kashi has a congenital hip condition, which gives his walk a style all its own: a skip here, a bunny hop there, and sometimes a leg held up while he stands still. None of it slows him down. And if he ever does need a surgery called a femoral head ostectomy (FHO), Paws will cover it at the hospital that diagnosed him.His skin has improved a lot as well. He arrived with skin issues from fleas, but the fleas have been treated, his skin is healing very well and his coat is growing back. He’ll stay on a steroid and an anti-fungal a little longer to keep that recovery going.Kashi is neutered, microchipped and current on rabies, distemper and bordetella. He tested negative for Lyme and heartworm and takes Heartgard and Credelio for parasite prevention. He’ll come packed with his bed, toys, leash, collar, and harness. All he needs now is a family to throw the next squeaky toy.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
4. Oscar
Adult · Male · Collie / Shepherd / Mixed · 13 mi from Pittsburgh




Meet Oscar – Your New Best Friend! At just 1 year old and 45 pounds, Oscar is the perfect mix of a fantastic personality, great manners, and all-around good boy energy! This handsome Collie mix has so much love to give and is ready to find a family of his very own.Oscar is already off to a wonderful start with his house manners. He's potty trained, crate trained, and sleeps perfectly through the night. He is also an absolute gentleman in his crate while his foster parents are at work. Talk about a dream foster pup!And the best part? Oscar gets along with everyone! He's dog friendly, cat friendly, and kid friendly.
Read more about Oscar
He would be perfectly happy sharing his home with other four-legged friends, but he'd also love being the center of attention in a home where he can soak up all the love for himself.Whether you're looking for a buddy for your current pets or a loyal companion to call your own, Oscar could be just the guy you've been waiting for!He's got the personality, the manners, and the love to make an amazing addition to just about any family. Now all he needs is someone to give him his happily ever after. Available for adoption November 7. Current with vaccines, neutered, and microchipped. Apply for me today at pawsacrosspittsburgh.com/adopt. KL 16182
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
5. Ace
Young · Male · Boston Terrier / Chihuahua / Mixed · 13 mi from Pittsburgh




(Re)introducing Ace Ace is a ~2 year old, 17lb Boston Terrier/Jack Russell Terrier/Chihuahua mix who finds himself back on the market in search of a forever home. Ace was adopted this summer, but everyone realized it just wasn't the best fit for our guy. His adopters wanted the best for him and brought him back to us so that we can find him his match.Between fostering him and his adoption experience, we have a stronger understanding about what Ace needs to succeed.Ace can be described using a few "A" adjectives.ADORABLE - Duh, see his pictures for yourself. His soulful eyes, adorable face, and wagging tail - how can you not stop to stare at his cuteness?!AFFECTIONATE - If you are looking for a lap dog or snoozing buddy, Ace is your guy.
Read more about Ace
He will happily sit on or near you and soak up love.ANXIOUS - Dude is an anxious guy and needs a home that isn't loud or chaotic. He does fine meeting kids in public, but kiddos are a hard pass for day-to-day life.AGILE - True to the Jack Russell, he loves to parkour around his yard and family room. He thinks it would be cool if you put some agility equipment in your yard but just for fun - he is not interested in competition!Must Haves:QUALITY TIME - Ace is happiest when he's surrounded by his people and considers himself a professional lap dog. He will do best with a family that is home more often than not.RESIDENT DOG BUDDY - He requires another dog(s) in the home that is under 40lb. He is used to being with other dogs, and a home without another dog exacerbates his anxiety.EXPERIENCED DOG OWNER - We want someone who has solid dog experience. This cannot be your first rodeo, and it would be helpful if you have had experience with separation anxiety.NO KIDS - Young kids can make him nervous. We are seeking an adult-only home or one with teenage "kids" that will be less erratic in their movements.Ace is making progress with his potty training. He knows to go potty outside but is still marking indoors. That being said, he'll need a family committed to helping him build consistency and willing to use belly bands. With a regular routine and positive reinforcement, he'll continue to improve.Ace will make you earn his trust, but once you're in then you're his BFF. If you're looking for a loving, affectionate boy who will happily be by your side then apply for Ace today.Ace is neutered, up to date on core vaccinations, microchipped, and 4dx tested (negative for heartworm and lyme). He is available for adoption now at pawsacrosspittsburgh.com/adopt. KL 16182
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
6. Gidget
Female · Dachshund / Terrier / Mixed · 13 mi from Pittsburgh




Hi! Gidget is a very sweet short haired dachshund. She came into rescue with her sister Poppy when their mom passed away. They are very sweet plus sized ladies with lots of love to give! Gidget takes a little time to warm up to new people, but once she does she will not leave your lap! She is good in the car, is mostly pee-pad trained but still has some accidents, and will go on short walks. She does not like the crate. She would prefer to be a couch potato if allowed to do so. She will play with some toys, but prefers to wrestle with her sister. She is also great at neighborhood watch and will let you know if there is a stranger around.
Read more about Gidget
She would love it if her and her sister could get adopted together, but would be fine on her own as well. She is reported to be good with cats. She is definitely good with other dogs and I think if given some time to warm up to them, gentle kids would be ok too. She is current with vaccines, spayed, and microchipped. Apply today at pawsacrosspittsburgh.com/adopt. KL 16182
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
7. Poppy
Female · Dachshund / Terrier / Mixed · 13 mi from Pittsburgh



Hi! Poppy is a very sweet longish haired dachshund. She came into rescue with her sister Gidget when their mom passed away. They are very sweet plus sized ladies with lots of love to give! Poppy takes a little time to warm up to new people, but once she does she will not leave your lap! She is great in the car, is pee-pad trained and will go on short walks. She would prefer to be a couch potato if allowed to do so. She does not play with a lot of toys, but does wrestle with her sister. She is also great at neighborhood watch and will let you know if there is a stranger around. She would love it if they could both get adopted together, but would be fine on her own as well.
Read more about Poppy
She is reported to be good with cats. She is definitely good with other dogs and I think if given some time to warm up to them, gentle kids would be ok too. She is current with vaccines, spayed, and microchipped. Apply today at pawsacrosspittsburgh.com/adopt. KL 16182
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
8. Poppy
Young · Female · Presa Canario / Mastiff / Mixed · 13 mi from Pittsburgh




Meet Poppy! Looking for a big, lovable, goofy girl to add to your family? Poppy is a 7-month-old, 77-pound Presa Canario mix with lots of love (and energy!) to give! Other Dogs: Poppy does great with other dogs! She’ll just need a proper introduction to any resident dogs in her potential new home. Cats: A home without cats would be best. House Training: Almost there! She’s making great progress but still needs some consistency. Crate Training: Still a work in progress. Personality: Poppy loves to do the classic big-dog lean, pressing her whole body against you for some extra love and attention! Ideal Home: Poppy is looking for an active family who can help her burn off that puppy energy.
Read more about Poppy
A fenced-in yard would be a huge plus because this girl LOVES her zoomies! We’re looking for an adopter with Mastiff or large-breed experience who understands the importance of continued training, structure, and socialization as she grows. Training Bonus! Poppy will come with a training package for adopters in the Pittsburgh area to help her and her new family get off to a great start!Poppy may be a big girl already, but she’s still very much a puppy who needs continued training, patience, and plenty of love. Ready to give Poppy her forever home?Poppy is available now for adoption through Paws Across Pittsburgh, Springdale, 15144, KL16182. Apply now at www.pawsacrosspittsburgh.com/adopt
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
9. Panther
Young · Female · Cane Corso Mastiff / Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 13 mi from Pittsburgh




Meet Panther! Your very own little shadow with a BIG heart! At just 10 months old and weighing in at 56 pounds, Panther is a beautiful, all-black furred gal who has so much love to give. Her favorite kind of day includes people watching and a car ride with her head out of the window. Maybe a good ol' fashioned pup cup to reward her for being a good girl, and after that she is content to chill and absorb all of the love she can for the rest of the day. Although she is not much of a couch girl as of now, she will be sure to have her head resting on your lap or her belly in the air for some belly rubs (which are her ultimate favorite).Panther can be a litte shy at first.
Read more about Panther
She is working on building some confidence and beginning to realize that she won't be in trouble for simply being herself. She is a little unsure of men at first, but don't let that fool you! She warms up once she feels comfortable, which takes all about five minutes. Panther is not interested in toys, but she is very treat motivated. She already knows sit, paw, lay down, roll over and is pretty good at stay. Her recall is great. She is also crate trained, house trained and rarely jumps on people. Who says you need a tiny puppy when you can have this beautiful, 56-pound lovebug who's already got the basics down?!When it comes to other dogs, Panther would likely be happiest as the only pup in the home, where she can soak up all of the love and attention for herself. However, she may be able to share her space with a calm, compatible dog with proper introductions as she does not care for the high energy play style from the other dog in her foster home. Cats are unknown, but we believe she would do well with a proper introduction. She would likely do best with older kids that won't overwhelm her.Panther is spayed and will be adopted out current with rabies, distemper, and bordetella vaccines. Now she is ready for her forever home! Can you be the one to give this girl the safe, loving space she deserves? Apply now through Paws Across Pittsburgh, Springdale PA 15144 KL#16182
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
10. DJ fka Taylin
Adult · Female · Hound / Mixed · 13 mi from Pittsburgh




Meet DJ! This beautiful 4.5-year-old mixed breed weighs 68 pounds and is one BIG lovebug. DJ thrives with structure, training, and one-on-one attention, and she absolutely loves being with her people. She’s incredibly affectionate, cuddly, and friendly with both adults and children. Her vets adore her and have left wonderful comments in her chart, and she consistently gets great reports from the kennel when her family travels.DJ is a smart, energetic girl who can be a lot of dog in the best way. She’s excitable and enthusiastic, especially when meeting new people or dogs, and she loves BIG. With structure and guidance, she settles nicely and enjoys relaxing with her family.
Read more about DJ fka Taylin
She is comfortable being crated during the workday and sometimes will even choose to hang out in her crate with the door open. At night, she loves sleeping with her family.DJ is very devoted to her people and loves being involved in whatever her family is doing. She does best with clear boundaries, consistency, and plenty of positive attention. She needs a securely fenced yard, and if a secure yard isn't available, she will need to be constantly leashed when outside. DJ would do best in a home without cats or small animals like rabbits and chickens, as those types of animals naturally bring out her instinct to chase.DJ would likely thrive as the only pet in a home where she can soak up all the love and attention for herself. While she is wonderful with children, she would love to be the center of her family's world, so a home without young children—or possibly with older, dog-savvy teens—would be ideal. Her perfect family will appreciate a big personality, enjoy training, provide structure and exercise, and have plenty of love and attention to give her.DJ has so much love to give and is looking for someone who will give her the same in return.She is spayed, up to date on vaccinations, and is available for adoption now. Apply directly at www.pawsacrosspittsburgh.com/adopt through Paws Across Pittsburgh, Springdale, PA 15144, KL#16182.
- Good with kids
- Only dog
- No cats
- House-trained
11. Elvira
Adult · Female · Terrier / Feist / Mixed · 13 mi from Pittsburgh




Meet Elvira! At 21 pounds, this adorable 4-year-old mixed breed (possibly with a little Feist in her mix) is the perfect little companion! And that adorable little stub tail? It’s always wagging when she sees someone she’s starting to trust!When Elvira first came into foster, the world felt like a pretty scary place. But after three weeks in a loving home, she’s already making wonderful progress! She’s spending more time out of her crate, discovering the joys of relaxing on the couch, and learning that life with people can be pretty wonderful. She still needs a little time to feel comfortable in new situations, but her confidence is growing, and we can’t wait to see her continue to blossom.Elvira absolutely loves having other dogs around and takes comfort in their companionship.
Read more about Elvira
She’ll need a confident, friendly canine sibling in her forever home to help her feel safe and continue coming out of her shell.She’s doing well with her house training, and her foster is keeping a close eye on her as she continues to learn. Elvira is looking for someone who will give her the time, patience, and encouragement she needs to blossom. We know that once she feels safe and loved, that little stub tail is going to be wagging an awful lot! She is spayed, up to date on vaccinations, and will be available for adoption starting 10/4/26 through Paws Across Pittsburgh, Springdale, PA KL# 16182.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
12. Maureen
Adult · Female · Terrier / Mixed · 13 mi from Pittsburgh




Meet Maureen - a spunky 16 - pound whirlwind of a personality who's ready to bring energy, loyalty, and lots of cuddles to her forever home!Maureen is one year and four months old and though to be a mix of whippet and terrier. She came from a hoarding situation and was returned through no fault of her own---she's simply waiting for the right match. This little dog has a big personality and is already proving she's an absolute sweetheart once she settles in.She's wonderful with kids and other dogs. Maureen currenlty has two furry foster siblings she adores and would thrive in a home where she can have a canine (or kid) companion to play with.
Read more about Maureen
She has plenty of energy and dose best with an active family who can keep up with daily walks, backyard chase games, and games of fetch. In her free time she loves destoroying the suffing in her toys, chewing on bones, and getting all the affection she can.Maureen walks nicely on a leash and knows some basic commands. Her foster home works opposite shifts so someone is almost always with her, which has helped her feel secure. She does have seperation anxiety (she'll cry and whine when left alone in her crate), and we're still working on full potty training and teaching her that nipping isn't the best way to play when she gets over-excited. These are common, manageable behaviors that respond well to consistency, training, and the right environment.Maureen is looking for a patient, active home that can give her the structure, excerise, and companionship she deserves. If you're ready for a playfull little sidekick who will keep you on your toes and fill your days with love, she'd love to meet you!Maureen is spayed, microchipped and up to date on vaccines, flea, tick and heartworm medications. Maureen is ready for adoption through Paws Across Pittsburgh, Springdale, PA KL#16182
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
13. Hugo
Puppy · Male · Husky / Terrier / Mixed · 13 mi from Pittsburgh




Meet HugoHugo is a 7-month-old, 35-pound puppy Husky mix. He came to Paws after a difficult start in life as one of more than 67 dogs rescued from an animal hoarding and abuse situation.Personality and TrustBecause of his past, Hugo needs a kind, patient adopter who is willing to give him time, consistency, and reassurance as he learns to feel safe. He can be very skittish at first and may not feel comfortable around new people right away but will warm up to his people.Once trust begins to build, Hugo’s sweet and affectionate side shines through. He loves spending quiet time on the couch, cuddling close, and giving kisses to the people he trusts.Behavior and TrainingIn social situations with people or other dogs, Hugo may growl or bark when he feels unsure, but he has not shown aggression.
Read more about Hugo
He may also try to run and hide, so he will need gentle support and gradual exposure to help build his confidence. High-energy puppy who enjoys activity and engagement Loves other dogs and thrives with canine companionship Enjoys walks and is making good progress with leash training Housebroken Good with catsIdeal HomeHugo would do best in a home with another dog of similar or larger size who has a compatible play style and can help him feel more secure. He is also good with cats, making him a good fit for a patient, pet-friendly home that can give him the time, structure, and reassurance he needs. With the right guidance, patience, and love, Hugo has the potential to grow into a tremendous, loyal companion.Hugo is neutered, microchipped and up to date on vaccines, flea, tick and heartworm medications. Hugo is ready for adoption now through Paws Across Pittsburgh Springdale PA KL#16182
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
Adopting a dog with children in Pittsburgh
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 Pittsburgh
- Paws Across PittsburghSpringdale, PA · 13 kid-friendly dogs above
Questions about adopting kid-friendly dogs in Pittsburgh
How many kid-friendly dogs are up for adoption in Pittsburgh?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, have 13 kid-friendly dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a kid-friendly dog in Pittsburgh?
The rescues with the most kid-friendly dogs near Pittsburgh right now are Paws Across Pittsburgh (Springdale, PA). 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.