10+ years
12 years & older
Senior dogs age 12 and older
Meet 801 adoptable senior dogs aged 12 and older. These are some of the most overlooked dogs in rescue — and some of the most grateful to be chosen. Showing 271–300 of 801 below.
Last updated October 18, 2026 at 4:33 PM EDT. Listings refresh throughout the day. Always confirm a dog’s availability with the shelter or rescue before making plans.
Dogs aged 12 and older — in their double digits — are among the very hardest to place, yet they're often the gentlest companions you'll find: house-trained, long past the chewing and high-energy years, and content to spend their days close to you. Older dogs are too easily overlooked, so giving one a soft place to land for their remaining years is one of the most meaningful things an adopter can do. Always confirm availability and adoption steps with the shelter or rescue.
Available senior dogs aged 12 and older
801 senior dogs aged 12 and older available.
10+ years
Polo
Hi there! My name is Polo, and I’m a 13-year-old chihuahua with a soft spot for cuddles and staying close to the people I love. I’m house-broken, walk…
Broward County Animal Care & Regulation - Ft. Lauderdale • Fort Lauderdale, FL
10+ years
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Mango
Maricopa County Animal Care & Control - West Valley Animal Care Center • Phoenix, AZ
10+ years
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Tippy
Why I'd make a great companion: ~Woof! My name is Tippy and I weigh 11 LBS. ~I may be a little older, but I still have plenty of personality and more …
Arizona Humane Society - Sunnyslope • Phoenix, AZ
10+ years
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Mermaid
Meet Mermaid, a sweet senior with lots of love to give! We don’t know what her life looked like before she came to us, but we know what we want for he…
Humane Society of Broward County • Ft Lauderdale, FL
10+ years
Maggie
Meet Maggie, an 13 year old, 35 lb standard poodle who found her way to Wish Bone when her family moved and could not take her with them. Maggie is a …
Wish Bone Canine Rescue • Normal, IL
10+ years
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Oliver
Meet Oliver! He and his sister Lucy are bonded and must be adopted together. They are the sweetest, happiest golden-era brother and sister duo. They a…
Kentuckiana Pug Rescue • Indianapolis, IN
10+ years
Missy
About MeMeet Missy, a devoted senior lady with a heart full of loyalty and love. At 13 years old, Missy is the definition of a faithful companion—she’…
The Rescue Crew, Inc • Andover, MN
10+ years
Abigail
Meet Abigail! Abigail is a 13-year-old, 6.5-pound Miniature Poodle with a happy, confident personality and so much love to give. This sweet little lad…
Second Chance Dog Rescue • San Diego, CA
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Adopting a dog aged 12+ — 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.
Is it worth adopting a dog aged 12 or older?
Absolutely. Older dogs are typically calm, affectionate, and already trained, and they bond deeply with the people who give them a home. Their time with you may be shorter, but adopters consistently describe it as some of the most rewarding companionship they've known.
Do dogs aged 12+ have higher vet costs?
Some older dogs need a special diet, joint support, or more regular check-ups, but many are healthy for their age. Each dog's profile and the shelter caring for them can tell you about any known medical needs before you adopt.
How do I adopt one of these senior dogs?
Open any dog's profile to see which shelter or rescue is caring for them, then use the adoption link or contact details to apply directly with that organization. Lily's Second Chance gathers older dogs in one place so they're easier to find.
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 an older dog who needs a home?
Shelters and rescues can list adoptable senior dogs for free.