Senior confirmed
Senior Shih Tzu dogs in Illinois
Senior Shih Tzu dogs for adoption in Illinois
Meet 14 adoptable senior Shih Tzu dogs (age 7+) in Illinois. Each one is from a shelter or rescue and ready for a calm, loving home.
Older Shih Tzus in Illinois 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 Illinois 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 Illinois
14 senior Shih Tzu dogs available in Illinois.
10+ years
Diesel
Shih Tzu Rescue, Adoption & Education Safehouse (S.T.R.A.E.S.) • Homer Glen, IL
10+ years
Tilley
Meet Tilley, a precious little 12-year-old Shih Tzu we took in recently. It’s hard to put into words just how much this sweet girl has been suffering.…
REACH Rescue, Inc • Mundelein, IL
10+ years
Maggie
Maggie is a sweet, sweet senior that is so deserving of a home to live out her golden years. She is deaf, loves to be held and have her ears scratched…
My Loveable Angels • bloomington, IL
10+ years
Dudley Duddles
Meet Dudley Duddles – A Gentle Soul Looking for a Soft Place to Land Dudley Duddles is a 10-year-old Shih Tzu mix who weighs 13 pounds and is as sweet…
Wish Bone Canine Rescue • Normal, IL
10+ years
Benji
Meet Benji, a 16-year-old Shih Tzu mix who weighs about 13 pounds and is equal parts gentle soul and devoted sidekick. He’s a friendly, outgoing, and …
Wish Bone Canine Rescue • Normal, IL
10+ years
Senior confirmed
10+ years
Senior confirmed
Senior confirmed
Chucky
New Rattitude - Illinois • Plainfield, IL
Senior confirmed
10+ years
BJ
Shih Tzu Rescue, Adoption & Education Safehouse (S.T.R.A.E.S.) • Homer Glen, IL
Senior confirmed
Nala
Nala is an 8 year old female Shih Tzu who weighs in at 10.5 pounds. This dog's adoption fee is $350. If you are still interested, please read more bel…
Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF-IL) • Wheaton, IL
Senior Shih Tzu dogs in other states
Other senior dogs in Illinois by breed
Adopting a senior Shih Tzu in Illinois — 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 Illinois?
Open any dog's profile to see the shelter or rescue caring for them in Illinois, 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 Illinois?
Availability changes often as dogs are adopted and new ones are listed. If you don't see a senior Shih Tzu in Illinois right now, check back soon or browse nearby states — new dogs are added regularly.
Can I adopt a senior Shih Tzu from Illinois if I live elsewhere?
Often, yes. Many rescues and shelters in Illinois 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 Illinois who needs a home?
Shelters and rescues can list adoptable senior dogs for free.