Senior confirmed
Gracie
Gracie came to us starving and scared. It didn't take long before her gentle, loving personality won over the rescue. Born in October 2019, this big, …
Welfare for Animals Guild • Sequim, WA
Senior dogs in Washington
Senior dogs for adoption in Washington
Meet 57 adoptable senior dogs (age 7+) in Washington. Each one is from a shelter or rescue and ready to give an older dog's quiet, grateful love. Showing 1–30 of 57 below.
Last updated October 18, 2026 at 10:34 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 Washington 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.
16 shelters and rescues in Washington currently list senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance.
How adoption works in Washington
Seattle, Bellevue and Federal Way generate a large share of Washington's listings, and most are posted by rescue groups. A rescue group usually keeps dogs in foster homes and asks for an application before arranging a visit, while a municipal shelter tends to keep walk-in hours and lets you meet dogs the same day.
Contact the organization on a dog's profile to get started. There is usually an application or a conversation, then a meet and greet, and an adoption fee set by that organization, which often covers spay or neuter and vaccinations. Because listings cluster in a few cities, many groups help arrange transport within Washington for the right match. The organization on the profile can tell you about that dog's history, requirements and availability.
Available senior dogs in Washington
57 senior dogs available in Washington.
Senior confirmed
Franco
Born in December 2019, this boy is full of love, and energy! Looking for an adventure buddy? This is your guy – he loves runs, walks and hikes in the …
Welfare for Animals Guild • Sequim, WA
Senior confirmed
Pula
Gorgeous blonde looking for love and a forever home! Pula was born in October 2019 and sadly spent much of her young life without much human interacti…
Welfare for Animals Guild • Sequim, WA
Senior confirmed
Kringle
The holidays may be in the rearview mirror, but all things merry and bright are still ahead when you adopt jolly ol’ Kringle! This approximately 8-yea…
Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County • Tacoma, WA
Senior confirmed
Senior confirmed
Lanie Dee
Wenatchee Valley Humane Society • E Wenatchee, WA
Senior confirmed
Hanny
Meet Hanny! This lovely girl is such a joy to have around. Hanny is a pretty easy-going little sweetheart. She loves to be with her humans and is grea…
Saving Great Animals • Bellevue, WA
Updated recently
Schell, A Pekingese
Meet Schell: The 10-Years-Young Adventure Buddy of Your Dreams! I f you’ve been searching for a loyal best friend who brings all the sweetness of a se…
Rompin Paws Rescue • Arlington, WA
10+ years
Patrick, A Papillon mix
Meet Patrick, our Papillon mix** Patrick is a sweet and loving Papillon mix, about 12 to 14 years old. Senior Dogs and Friends rescued him from the co…
Rompin Paws Rescue • Arlington, WA
10+ years
Trixie
Animal Information: Trixie is a 9.5 year old sighthound/terrier mix with a gentle, sensitive nature. Her world recently changed when her owner of near…
Dog Gone Seattle Rescue • Seattle, WA
Senior confirmed
Leyla
Meet Leyla! Leyla is a lovely little Yorkie, around 9-10 years old. She has so much spunk and zest for life left in her! She’s really come out of her …
Saving Great Animals • Bellevue, WA
Senior confirmed
Patrick A senior Papillon mix
Meet Patrick: The Head-Tilting Senior with a Puppy Heart! Don't let the 12 to 14 years fool you— Patrick is a highly active Papillon mix who completel…
Rompin Paws Rescue • Arlington, WA
Senior confirmed
Edgar
This pet was found on Dec 30, 2025. We’re still getting to know this pet’s unique personality and will share more soon.
Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County • Tacoma, WA
At Risk
Charlie
Meet Charlie! Sweet Charlie is an approximately 10 year old Poodle. He was on the euthanasia list at an overcrowded shelter in CA and we are glad to h…
Saving Great Animals • Bellevue, WA
Senior confirmed
Treble
Meet Treble, a distinguished 7-year-old Shepherd Mix (though we wouldn't be surprised if there's some Akita in that family tree too) with 35 pounds of…
The Alternative Humane Society of Whatcom County • Bellingham, WA
10+ years
Scout
Meet Scout! Scout is a gorgeous rough Collie and is around 10 years old. Scout is a friend to creatures great and small. She has never known a strange…
Saving Great Animals • Bellevue, WA
Senior confirmed
Beanie from Korea
Meet Beanie, Beanie is a 9-year-old Maltese boy weighing approximately 4 lbs (1.8 kg), rescued from South Korea and now waiting for his loving forever…
Ginger's pet rescue • Federal Way, WA
Senior confirmed
Kiwi a sweet Jack Russell senior
Meet Kiwi: The Smart, Quirky Jack Russell Mix Who Wants to Be Your Best Friend! Senior Dogs and Friends Rescue | Arlington, WA Are you a fan of the cl…
Rompin Paws Rescue • Arlington, WA
At Risk
Rico
Animal Profile: Rico is a 6-year-old (DOB 10/1/2019), 80 lb neutered male German Shepherd with a very sad story looking for a brighter future. He seem…
Dog Gone Seattle Rescue • Seattle, WA
10+ years
Leia
Meet Leia! We don't know much about early in her life, but her previous owners moved to housing that did not allow them to take her along. They though…
Welfare for Animals Guild • Sequim, WA
10+ years
Neela
Meet Neela! She a blue standard poodle born in 2016, and is as sweet as they come. Neela is the perfect companion for anyone seeking a loyal and affec…
Welfare for Animals Guild • Sequim, WA
Senior confirmed
Dolly From Korea
Meet Dolly, Dolly is a precious 9-year-old female Maltese weighing approximately 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg), rescued from a breeding farm in South Korea and now…
Ginger's pet rescue • Federal Way, WA
10+ years
Ebby
Meet Ebby! She came to WAG when her previous owner could no longer care for her. She is a great size for a gentle companion- about 20 lbs. Ebby was bo…
Welfare for Animals Guild • Sequim, WA
Senior confirmed
Brody
Meet Brody! This German shepherd was born around 2019 and is sweet as can be. He loves to play ball and is quite friendly with people. His previous ow…
Welfare for Animals Guild • Sequim, WA
Senior confirmed
Louie the Great
Animal Profile: Louie is an estimated 7-year-old, 65 lb neutered male Great Pyrenees Australian Cattle Dog mix who hails originally from Texas. Louie …
Dog Gone Seattle Rescue • Seattle, WA
Senior confirmed
Bertie
Animal Information: Bertie is a 7.5-year-old, 60lb hound mix who was adopted from Seattle Humane as a puppy. She is being surrendered because she need…
Dog Gone Seattle Rescue • Seattle, WA
10+ years
Gidget a/k/a Coconut
Meet Gidget — a little senior sweetheart with so much love left to give. At 13 years young and around 19 pounds, Gidget is proof that the best things …
The Alternative Humane Society of Whatcom County • Bellingham, WA
10+ years
Bonded- Jasper and Chloe
Meet Jasper and Chloe! This sweet pair of seniors are in a long-term relationship, and we cannot separate them after 45+ dog years together. They are …
Welfare for Animals Guild • Sequim, WA
Senior confirmed
Benz
Meet Benz! What a wonderful boy Benz is! He is 9 years old but has lots of pep in his step still. He is a friendly guy who gets along with everyone. H…
Saving Great Animals • Bellevue, WA
Senior confirmed
Lilly
Born in 2019, sweet Lilly is looking for some active, dog-savvy people to give her a forever home. She likes long walks, or runs, and absolutely loves…
Welfare for Animals Guild • Sequim, WA
Senior dogs in Washington by breed
Senior dogs in Washington by city
Shelters & rescues with senior dogs in Washington
These organizations currently have at least one adoptable senior dog listed on Lily's Second Chance.
- Welfare for Animals Guild (opens in a new tab) — Sequim, Washington · See Welfare for Animals Guild’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Saving Great Animals (opens in a new tab) — Bellevue, Washington · See Saving Great Animals’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Dog Gone Seattle Rescue (opens in a new tab) — Seattle, Washington · See Dog Gone Seattle Rescue’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- SpokAnimal (opens in a new tab) — Spokane, Washington · See SpokAnimal’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Auburn Valley Humane Society (opens in a new tab) — Auburn, Washington · See Auburn Valley Humane Society’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Regional Animal Services of King County (opens in a new tab) — Kent, Washington · See Regional Animal Services of King County’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Rompin Paws Rescue (opens in a new tab) — Arlington, Washington · See Rompin Paws Rescue’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County (opens in a new tab) — Tacoma, Washington · See Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Collar of Hope (opens in a new tab) — Olalla, Washington · See Collar of Hope’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Ginger's pet rescue (opens in a new tab) — Federal Way , Washington · See Ginger's pet rescue’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Homeward Pet Adoption Center (opens in a new tab) — Woodinville, Washington · See Homeward Pet Adoption Center’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Rise Rescue Alliance (opens in a new tab) — Port Angeles, Washington · See Rise Rescue Alliance’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- The Alternative Humane Society of Whatcom County (opens in a new tab) — Bellingham, Washington · See The Alternative Humane Society of Whatcom County’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Forever Home Dog Rescue — Lynnwood, Washington · See Forever Home Dog Rescue’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Greyhound Pets, Inc. (opens in a new tab) — Woodinville, Washington · See Greyhound Pets, Inc.’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
- Wenatchee Valley Humane Society — Wenatchee, Washington · See Wenatchee Valley Humane Society’s senior dogs on Lily's Second Chance
Low-cost spay, neuter and vet care in Washington
Programs that help Washington 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 / neuterSeattle Animal Shelter, Spay and Neuter Clinic (opens in a new tab) — City clinic offering low-cost spay and neuter surgery for dogs and cats of income-qualified owners.
- Help paying for careSeattle Animal Shelter, Low-Cost Services and Support (opens in a new tab) — City resource page listing low-cost wellness services, spay and neuter clinics and veterinary financial assistance.
- Spay / neuterSeattle Humane, Spay & Neuter (opens in a new tab) — Reduced-cost spay and neuter surgery for dogs and cats of low-income families at the Bellevue center.
- Spay / neuterAuburn Valley Humane Society, Northwest Spay & Neuter Center (opens in a new tab) — Low-cost, high-volume spay and neuter clinic in Tacoma with wellness services for dogs and cats.
- Spay / neuterSpokAnimal, Spay and Neuter (opens in a new tab) — Spay and neuter surgery for dogs and cats at the SpokAnimal veterinary clinic in Spokane.
Senior dogs in other states
Adopting a senior dog in Washington — 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 Washington?
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 Washington?
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 Washington?
Yes. Most shelters and rescues in Washington welcome adopters from anywhere in the state, and some can arrange transport within Washington 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 Washington?
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 Washington instead of adopting?
Many shelters and rescues in Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington who needs a home?
Shelters and rescues can list adoptable senior dogs for free.