Senior confirmed
Drax
Pupdate 10.15.26 Meet Drax! Drax is a big, brindle Boxer boy with snazzy white boots, a handsome mask, and 85–90 pounds of pure charm. At 7 years old,…
Minnesota Boxer Rescue • Woodbury, MN
Senior dogs in Minnesota
Senior dogs for adoption in Minnesota
Meet 125 adoptable senior dogs (age 7+) in Minnesota. Each one is from a shelter or rescue and ready to give an older dog's quiet, grateful love. Showing 31–60 of 125 below.
Last updated October 18, 2026 at 10:47 AM EDT. Listings refresh throughout the day. Always confirm a dog’s availability with the shelter or rescue before making plans.
Senior dogs — age 7 and up — wait far longer for homes than puppies, even though they're usually already house-trained, past the chewing stage, and happy to nap at your feet. Adopting an older dog in Minnesota means you typically know their size, temperament, and energy level from day one: fewer surprises, and a grateful companion who settles in fast. Always confirm availability and adoption requirements directly with the shelter or rescue.
19 shelters and rescues in Minnesota currently list senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance.
How adoption works in Minnesota
Minnesota's listings come mainly from rescue groups, with most posted from around Buffalo, Princeton and St. Louis Park. A rescue adoption usually begins with an application and a conversation, and the dog is often living with a foster family. Municipal shelters and humane societies list here as well, with walk-in hours where you can meet dogs the same day.
Found one? Open the profile and contact the organization holding the dog. Budget for an application or a conversation, a meet and greet, and an adoption fee set by that organization, which often covers spay or neuter and vaccinations. As listings cluster in a few communities, many groups help arrange transport within Minnesota. Details on that dog's history, requirements and availability come from the organization on the profile.
Available senior dogs in Minnesota
125 senior dogs available in Minnesota.
Senior confirmed
Millie
Pupdate 8.22.26 Hey friends! Big news from yours truly: I am OFFICIALLY healed from my TPLO surgery and lump removal. The vet gave me the all-clear an…
Minnesota Boxer Rescue • Woodbury, MN
10+ years
10+ years
Winnie
Meet Winnie, a sweet 10-year-old Shepherd/Pyrenees mix weighing about 70 pounds. This gentle senior girl loves her people and her dog friends and is h…
Pet Haven Inc. of MN • St. Paul, MN
10+ years
Ghost
Meet Ghost, an adorable 11-year-old Yorkie weighing about 6 pounds. This tiny guy may be a senior, but don’t let his age fool you. Ghost is very activ…
Pet Haven Inc. of MN • St. Paul, MN
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
Senior confirmed
Jean
Jean is an 8-year-old spayed female with a heart of gold. This sweet, affectionate senior enjoys quiet moments relaxing in her crate and is fully crat…
Doberman Rescue Minnesota • Minneaoplis, MN
Senior confirmed
Misty
Misty is a radiant 9-year-old spayed female who truly shines with patience, positive reinforcement, and—most of all—treats. She loves training and res…
Doberman Rescue Minnesota • Minneaoplis, MN
Senior confirmed
Champ
Champ is a handsome 75-pound Doberman Pinscher/ Staffordshire Terrier and sweet Ladies Man looking for a gal to call his own. Champ ensures he stays i…
The Rescue Crew, Inc • Andover, MN
Senior confirmed
Tangier
About MeOh hai! I'm Tangier! A 9-year-old Pomeranian mix with a big personality and even bigger opinions. If I'm being honest I'm the classic cranky o…
The Rescue Crew, Inc • Andover, MN
10+ years
Bug
Meet Bug — An 11-Year-Old Gentleman With Personality to Spare! Bug is 11 years old, and this handsome Doberman/Husky mix has perfected the art of enjo…
Doberman Rescue Minnesota • Minneaoplis, MN
Senior confirmed
Chase / Maci
Meet Chase & Maci – The Sweetest Couple You Could Ever Ask For! If you’re looking for a pair of devoted, affectionate companions, Chase and Maci are r…
Pet Haven Inc. of MN • St. Paul, MN
Senior confirmed
Senior confirmed
Marty Jane
Marty Jane, a sweet Yorkie may be a senior, but don’t tell him that—he still has plenty of pep in his step! Marty is a happy, loving little guy who gr…
Underdog Rescue MN • St. Louis Park, MN
Senior confirmed
Winny
Introducing Winny , our incredibly sweet and gentle 7-year-old Coonhound lady! At 97 lbs, Winny is a big girl with an even bigger heart, ready to find…
Ruff Start Rescue • Princeton, MN
Senior confirmed
Torta
Prepare to fall head over heels for Torta, a resilient and incredibly affectionate girl seeking her forever home! Despite a rough start before joining…
Ruff Start Rescue • Princeton, MN
Senior confirmed
Ducky
If you’re looking for a loyal little sidekick who enjoys life’s simple pleasures, Ducky may be the perfect match. This adorable Yorkie is happiest whe…
Underdog Rescue MN • St. Louis Park, MN
10+ years
Eddy
Eddy is a curious, lovable boy who simply wants to hang out with his person. He stays calm even in chaotic environments, though he appreciates having …
Ruff Start Rescue • Princeton, MN
10+ years
Brutus
This animal is a part of our “Seniors for Seniors” program where we offer senior adopters an opportunity to adopt an eligible pet at a discounted fee.…
Ruff Start Rescue • Princeton, MN
Senior confirmed
Chevy
I just joined my foster family and we are still getting acquainted with one another. Once they learn more about me, they will add more information her…
Ruff Start Rescue • Princeton, MN
10+ years
Buddy
Hi, I’m Buddy and looking for my forever home! I’m currently couch surfing with my foster mom and 2 foster fur siblings. I’m 11 years old but don’t le…
Rejection Collection Boxer Rescue • Owatonna, MN
At Risk
Cardi
This animal is a part of our “Seniors for Seniors” program where we offer senior adopters an opportunity to adopt an eligible pet at a discounted fee.…
Ruff Start Rescue • Princeton, MN
Senior confirmed
Amaryllis
Amaryllis is a gentle, affectionate girl who will make a wonderful family and companion pet. While she is still building trust with people, she has al…
Ruff Start Rescue • Princeton, MN
Senior confirmed
King
King is a lovable, goofy boy with a heart as big as his personality. He may be sight-impaired, but don’t tell him that—he’s far too busy enjoying life…
Underdog Rescue MN • St. Louis Park, MN
Senior confirmed
Dominic
Dominic is a big personality in a tiny package. When he gets excited, he jumps like a little goat, and his tongue—somehow longer than the rest of his …
Ruff Start Rescue • Princeton, MN
10+ years
Bruhni (Brew Knee) D71439
Good with Cats · Good with Dogs · Good with Kids · Housetrained
The Bond Between • Minnesota, MN
Senior confirmed
10+ years
Senior confirmed
Sherman D71222
Good with Cats · Good with Dogs · Good with Kids · Good with older, considerate children · Crate trained · Housetrained
The Bond Between • Minnesota, MN
Senior confirmed
Harriet D70423
Good with Cats · Good with Dogs · ++Heartworm positive
The Bond Between • Minnesota, MN
Senior dogs in Minnesota by breed
Senior dogs in Minnesota by city
Shelters & rescues with senior dogs in Minnesota
These organizations currently have at least one adoptable senior dog listed on Lily's Second Chance.
- Underdog Rescue MN (opens in a new tab) — St. Louis Park, Minnesota · See Underdog Rescue MN’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Ruff Start Rescue (opens in a new tab) — Princeton, Minnesota · See Ruff Start Rescue’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Ruff Start Rescue (opens in a new tab) — Princeton, Minnesota · See Ruff Start Rescue’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- The Bond Between (opens in a new tab) — Minnetonka, Minnesota · See The Bond Between’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Across America Boxer Rescue — Burnsville, Minnesota · See Across America Boxer Rescue’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Redemption Road Rescue — Crystal, Minnesota · See Redemption Road Rescue’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Rescue Network (opens in a new tab) — Buffalo, Minnesota · See Rescue Network’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- The Rescue Crew, Inc (opens in a new tab) — Andover, Minnesota · See The Rescue Crew, Inc’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Doberman Rescue Minnesota (opens in a new tab) — Princeton, Minnesota · See Doberman Rescue Minnesota’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Mower County Humane Society (opens in a new tab) — AUSTIN, Minnesota · See Mower County Humane Society’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Pet Haven Inc. of MN (opens in a new tab) — St. Paul, Minnesota · See Pet Haven Inc. of MN’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Rejection Collection Boxer Rescue — Owatonna, Minnesota · See Rejection Collection Boxer Rescue’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Minnesota Boxer Rescue (opens in a new tab) — Woodbury, Minnesota · See Minnesota Boxer Rescue’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Wadena County Humane Society (opens in a new tab) — Wadena, Minnesota · See Wadena County Humane Society’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- God's Dogs Rescue of TX for MN Transport Stop — Richfield, Minnesota · See God's Dogs Rescue of TX for MN Transport Stop’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Marshmallow Foundation (opens in a new tab) — Detroit Lakes, Minnesota · See Marshmallow Foundation’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Minneapolis Animal Care and Control (opens in a new tab) — Minneapolis, Minnesota · See Minneapolis Animal Care and Control’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- No Dog Left Behind — Brooklyn Center, Minnesota · See No Dog Left Behind’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- pethavenmn.org (opens in a new tab) — St. Paul, Minnesota · See pethavenmn.org’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
Low-cost spay, neuter and vet care in Minnesota
Programs that help Minnesota adopters keep a dog healthy on a budget. Each page was checked on 2026-09-10; confirm current hours and eligibility with the organization.
- Spay / neuterMinnesota Spay Neuter Assistance Program (MN SNAP) (opens in a new tab) (statewide) — Mobile clinic providing low-cost spay, neuter and core vaccines for dogs and cats of income-qualified Minnesotans.
- Low-cost vet careAnimal Humane Society Pet Clinics (opens in a new tab) — Veterinary clinics in St. Paul and Golden Valley with affordable fees and income-based discounts, including spay and neuter.
- Help paying for careAnimal Humane Society Veterinary Assistance (opens in a new tab) (statewide) — Resource list of low-cost veterinary facilities and financial help for Minnesota pet owners.
- Low-cost vet careVeTouch, University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine (opens in a new tab) — Student-run clinic offering free wellness exams and vaccines to low-income Twin Cities pet owners by appointment.
- Spay / neuterTri-County Humane Society Spay and Neuter Resources (opens in a new tab) (statewide) — List of lower-cost spay and neuter clinics throughout Minnesota maintained by the St. Cloud shelter.
Senior dogs in other states
Adopting a senior dog in Minnesota — 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 dog in Minnesota?
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 senior dogs in one place so they're easier to find — the adoption itself happens through the local group.
How much does it cost to adopt a senior dog in Minnesota?
Adoption fees vary by organization, but senior dogs are frequently discounted or sponsored because they wait the longest. Many rescues also begin any needed medical care before adoption. The dog's profile or the shelter can confirm the current fee.
Are senior dogs harder to care for?
Usually not. Older dogs are typically calmer and already trained, which makes the first weeks far easier than with a puppy. Some have age-related needs like a special diet or joint support, and the listing or shelter will tell you what to expect.
Can I adopt a senior dog from another city in Minnesota?
Yes. Most shelters and rescues in Minnesota welcome adopters from anywhere in the state, and some can arrange transport within Minnesota for the right match. Open a dog's profile to see the organization's contact details and ask them directly how their process works.
What should I expect in the first weeks after adopting a senior dog in Minnesota?
Senior dogs usually settle in faster than puppies because they're already past the most demanding stage. Expect a brief adjustment period — they may be shy at first, then relax into their personality. A consistent routine, a comfortable spot to rest, and patience are usually all it takes.
Can I foster a senior dog in Minnesota instead of adopting?
Many shelters and rescues in Minnesota offer foster programs — sometimes with a foster-to-adopt path so you can try the match before committing. Fostering is especially valuable for senior dogs because it gets them out of a kennel and into a calm home while they wait for their forever family. Ask the organization on any dog's profile whether fostering is available.
Are senior dogs good with children or other pets in a Minnesota home?
Many senior dogs are calm, gentle, and well-suited to family life — but it depends on the individual dog more than anything else. The shelter or rescue caring for each dog can tell you their specific history with children, cats, and other dogs before you apply. Many organizations offer meet-and-greets to make sure the match is right for everyone.
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 dog in Minnesota who needs a home?
Shelters and rescues can list adoptable senior dogs for free.