Dogs Playing for Life (DPFL) is a Florida nonprofit with a mission to enhance the quality of life of shelter dogs and increase lifesaving. Dogs Playing for Life brings at-risk shelter dogs to their Canine Center Florida to learn skills that will help them get adopted and live happy lives! Located in North Central Florida on 13 fully-fenced acres, DPFL works with dogs through enrichment and training activities, like playgroups. Jacksonville Humane Society is proud to partner with DPFL.
Dogs Playing for Life
What is the DPFL Canine Center?
At DPFL’s Canine Center Florida, each dog is provided extended time out of their kennels to engage in an individual training and behavior plan and interact with other dogs. These plans help set up each dog for success and allow them to learn through play!
Perks of Adopting from the DPFL Canine Center
When you adopt from the DPFL Canine Center, DPFL staff will meet with you and your new dog for a pre-adoption demonstration to show off all the skills your new family member has learned! Once your new pet is home, DPFL provides lifetime follow-up support if needed and will work with you to set your dog up for success at home.
How to Adopt from DPFL
Contact [email protected] or visit the Jacksonville Humane Society front desk to apply to adopt dogs available at the DPFL Canine Center!
Dogs Available at the DPFL Canine Center:
These dogs are currently at the Dogs Playing for Life Canine Center Florida, located in North Central Florida.
Dogs with DPFL Training Available at JHS:
These dogs received training from DPFL and are currently available for adoption at JHS.


Boog is a 6-year-old easygoing and smart guy! Boog recently spent some time in a home, and his foster family said, “Boog is a dream to hang with. He is crate-trained and will happily sleep in his crate all night; he’s also potty-trained and didn’t have any accidents in our home! Boog loves napping throughout the day, going on walks, then coming home to snuggle up!” In addition to being a dream housemate, Boog also knows many skills from his training at Dogs Playing for Life, and he would love to show them off for you. Come meet Boog at JHS!

Cocoa is a 7-year-old girl who loves all kinds of outdoor activities. Do you love swimming and going on adventures? Cocoa is the companion for you! In addition to swimming and exploring outside, Cocoa is always up for a good game of fetch or tug. After a long day filled with fun, Cocoa will be happy to curl up by your side for some snuggles! Cocoa has received training from Dogs Playing for Life and would be thrilled to show you all her tricks and skills. Come meet Cocoa at JHS!

Rudy is a 3-year-old boy who is happy-go-lucky, adventurous, and clever. Rudy is a great communicator and is SUPER smart – he has received special training from our friends at Dogs Playing for Life and knows more than 15 commands! Rudy recently spent time in a foster home, and his foster mom gave him a glowing review. She said Rudy is very snuggly, sweet, and gentle, loved cuddling with her in bed and happily slept in his own bed, too, enjoys chew toys, was great on walks, and overall is a very well-behaved boy! Come meet Rudy at JHS!

Kayla is a 5-year-old girl looking for a dream house of her own. Kayla loves making new friends and is smart, adventurous, and confident. Kayla would love to be in a home where she can show off her smarts and get lots of snuggles. Plus, she’s received her advanced degree in cuteness from Dogs Playing for Life and is ready to show off her skills with her new human friends! Come meet Kayla at JHS.