10+ years
Senior Shih Tzu dogs in California
Senior Shih Tzu dogs for adoption in California
Meet 15 adoptable senior Shih Tzu dogs (age 7+) in California. Each one is from a shelter or rescue and ready for a calm, loving home.
Older Shih Tzus in California are often passed over for puppies, yet they're usually house-trained, settled in temperament, and ready to bond right away — and because they're fully grown, you already know their size and personality. Adopting a senior Shih Tzu in California means welcoming a calm, grateful companion who can settle in from day one.
Last updated October 18, 2026 at 8:44 AM EDT. Listings refresh throughout the day. Always confirm a dog’s availability with the shelter or rescue before making plans.
Available senior Shih Tzu dogs in California
15 senior Shih Tzu dogs available in California.
Senior confirmed
Little Lady
South Los Angeles Animal Care and Control Center • Los Angeles, CA
10+ years
Pumpkin
Hi, I’m Pumpkin! I’m a sweet, loving girl who’s ready to find a cozy place to call home and a special person to share it with. I love being around my …
Irvine Animal Care Center • Irvine, CA
10+ years
Lucky Rios
Los Angeles County Animal Control - Baldwin Park • Baldwin Park, CA
10+ years
Senior confirmed
Senior confirmed
Francis
South Los Angeles Animal Care and Control Center • Los Angeles, CA
10+ years
Walter
MEET WALTER – LOOKING FOR HIS FOREVER HOME! Say hello to Walter! ❤️ This adorable little guy is full of love, personality, and just the right amount o…
The Heroic Tail • San Diego, CA
10+ years
Chewy
Meet Chewy! Chewy is a 10-year-old, 9 lb. Shih Tzu who may technically be a senior, but you’d never know it from his energy! This happy little guy has…
Second Chance Dog Rescue • San Diego, CA
10+ years
10+ years
Bubba
All DPS Rescue dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, dewormed, flea/tick treated, and microchipped prior to adoption. We are not requesting an adoptio…
Doggie Protective Services • Romoland, CA
Senior confirmed
10+ years
Luna
Meet sweet senior girl Luna! This lovely girl was severely neglected, and then dumped like trash by her owner. She has some vision loss, and needs eye…
Love All Animals • Dana Point, CA
10+ years
Ushi
Meet Ushi! 🐾 Ushi is a sweet 14-year-old Shih Tzu/Cavalier mix with a gentle soul and a big heart. He’s in great health and up to date on all his vac…
Love All Animals • Dana Point, CA
Senior confirmed
Senior Shih Tzu dogs in other states
Other senior dogs in California by breed
Adopting a senior Shih Tzu in California — FAQ
What counts as a senior dog?
Most shelters and vets consider a dog "senior" around age 7, though large breeds often age sooner and small breeds a little later. Every dog listed here is 7 years or older.
How do I adopt a senior Shih Tzu in California?
Open any dog's profile to see the shelter or rescue caring for them in California, then use the adoption link or contact details to apply directly with that organization. Lily's Second Chance simply gathers senior Shih Tzus in one place so they're easier to find.
Are there always senior Shih Tzu dogs available in California?
Availability changes often as dogs are adopted and new ones are listed. If you don't see a senior Shih Tzu in California right now, check back soon or browse nearby states — new dogs are added regularly.
Can I adopt a senior Shih Tzu from California if I live elsewhere?
Often, yes. Many rescues and shelters in California arrange or help coordinate transport for the right adopter, while others prefer a local meet-and-greet first. Open a dog's profile and ask the organization directly how their out-of-area adoption process works.
Guides to help you decide
Getting started
Why Adopt a Senior Dog? 7 Reasons Older Dogs Make Wonderful Companions
Senior dogs are often calm, house-trained, and overlooked at shelters. Here are seven honest reasons an older dog may be the best companion you ever bring home.
6 min readUnderstanding ageHow Old Is a "Senior" Dog? Senior Age by Breed and Size
A dog is not "old" at the same age across the board — size and breed change everything. Here is how to tell when a dog becomes a senior, and what it means for care.
5 min readCare & healthCaring for a Senior Dog: Health, Diet, and Everyday Comfort
How to keep an older dog healthy and comfortable — vet care, senior-appropriate diet, joint and dental health, exercise, and simple home adjustments that make a big difference.
8 min readKnow a senior Shih Tzu in California who needs a home?
Shelters and rescues can list adoptable senior dogs for free.