Senior Dogs for Adoption in Orange, CA: 8 Older Dogs Looking for a Home
Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Orange have 85 senior dogs up for adoption. Here are the 8 newest, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.
Senior dogs are often the gentlest companions and the slowest to find homes. Many arrive at rescues after their owner died or moved into care, and they deserve a comfortable home for their golden years.
- All dogs 814
- Puppies 76
- Adult Dogs 647
- Kid-Friendly Dogs 129
- Cat-Friendly Dogs 61
- Small Dogs 83
- Large Dogs 20
Not in Orange? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Chewie
Meet Chewie! ❤️
Chewie is an approximately 11-year-old Maltese mix who weighs 14 pounds, and this sweet little boy is ready for a fresh start and a loving home to call his own. He came to us as an owner surrender due to a life-changing family situation.
Read more about Chewie
Chewie is a lovable, mellow, and sweet little guy. He is housetrained, happily sleeps in his crate, and is an easygoing companion who would love nothing more than to be part of a family. He enjoys his daily walks and, despite his age, still loves to show off his playful side with some adorable zoomies in the backyard! While Chewie is dog friendly, he prefers to socialize with smaller dogs his size. He also tends to be more cautious with men and will need a slow introduction to men he doesn't know.
Chewie recently underwent extensive dental surgery. Because he had never received previous dental care, he unfortunately lost all of his teeth. But don’t let that worry you—Chewie doesn’t seem to know he’s missing a single tooth! He is happy, comfortable, and enjoys his meals. He will simply need to remain on a soft-food diet.
His bloodwork shows that he is in good health for his age, and he has completed his medical intake. Now all Chewie needs is someone to give him the love, comfort, and happily-ever-after he deserves.
If you’re looking for a sweet, gentle little companion who will be grateful for every bit of love you give him, Chewie may be your perfect match.
If you are interested in meeting Chewie, please first complete an adoption application on our website: www.greatpets.org.
Chewie’s $200 adoption donation includes his veterinary examination, vaccinations, bloodwork, extensive dental surgery, fecal examination, microchip, and flea control.
- No young kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
2. Elmer
Name: ElmerAge: 10-12 yrs Sex: male, neuteredBreed: ChihuahuaWeight: 10 lbsHousebroken: yes, in a house with backyard space Kids: 9 and older should be just fine.Other dogs: friendly with all other small dogs. Is fostered with another senior male & seems to enjoy the companyCats: cat safe, currently fostered with catsHousing: We are looking to put him in a house with yard or patio spacePersonality: Elmer is a darling dog. He has a very happy-go- lucky personality. He loves going on walks but due to his grade 4/6 heart murmor its 2 houses max to pee, then in the dog stroller or carry sack for the rest of the walk.
Read more about Elmer
He loves to snuggle with you on the couch. He will bond quickly with his new owner. He's a lover boy for sure.What we know: found as a stray in terrible condition. We had a dental w/extractions done. He'sbeen neutered and completely vaccinated & microchipped. His bloodwork is good. He is on Vetmedin for his 4/6 heart murmur and we have 6 months of meds to go with him. Elmer is good on leash & loves walks, but unfortunately he can not walk far due to the heart murmor. He wants to go, but you will need to carry him or put him in a doggie stroller for his own good. He loves to go out with you around town also, he's very social and an attention grabber. Medical: healthy, good bloodwork, has had a dental w/extractions, completely vaccinated, dewormed, neutered and microchipped.How to apply: No out of state. Visit OUR website at www.animalsrule.org and fill out our online application of interest.
To see more pictures and video of Elmer, please check out and follow our Facebook and Instagram pages
Elmer is in foster care & can be seen by appointment only, with an approved application. If you are interested visit OUR website at www.animalsrule.org and fill out our online application of interest.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
3. Maya
Meet Maya! Maya is an approximately 10–11-year-old small Maltese/Poodle-type mix with a gentle, sweet personality. She was rescued after her previous owner was no longer able to provide the care she needed. Her coat had become severely matted and needed to be completely shaved, but she’s now comfortable, clean and ready for a brand-new beginning.Maya does well with people and other dogs and is an incredibly sweet little lady. At this stage of her life, she deserves nothing more than a safe home, a cozy bed and a family who will absolutely adore her.She’s had a rough chapter, but that doesn’t have to define the rest of her story. Maya is ready to be someone’s cherished little girl.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
4. Kendall & Kylie
KENDALL & KYLIE — A LIFETIME OF LOVE, TOGETHER 11½ years old • Chihuahua sisters • Bonded pairKendall & Kylie have been side by side since the day they were born. Same litter. Same life. Same tiny little old-lady agenda. And now these sweet sisters are looking for a home where they can spend their golden years exactly the way they like them:Together. Cozy. And preferably in your lap. These girls are professional snugglers and Olympic-level nappers. They absolutely adore their humans and are happiest simply being near you. They don’t need constant entertainment, long adventures, or a house full of excitement.
Read more about Kendall & Kylie
Give them a soft blanket, a warm lap and their favorite person nearby, and they’ve pretty much hit the jackpot. Their perfect life?A calmer home with people who want two sweet little companions to love on. They’re comfortable around cats and other small, mellow dogs, but rambunctious, high-energy animals aren’t really their scene. They’re more “Netflix and nap” than “let’s party.” They may give unfamiliar animals a few very important Chihuahua announcements , but they’re not biters — just two tiny neighborhood-watch ladies doing their civic duty.They’ve spent most of their lives using pee pads on a balcony, so they’re already familiar with indoor potty pads. Their grooming is easy, they’re in great health, and they’re happy eating their kibble — although they certainly won’t turn down a little chicken, meat, fish, sweet potato or banana. But the best thing about Kendall & Kylie isn’t how easy they are.It’s them.Two little sisters who have had each other for 11½ years. Two tiny bodies that curl up together. Two girls who don’t need much from their next family except a safe place to land, someone to cuddle, and the chance to stay together.They’ve loved each other their whole lives.Now they just need someone to love them both.
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
- Adopt together
5. Ooyoo
Meet Ooyoo Ooyoo is a beautiful 8-year-old Canaan Dog mix weighing approximately 44 pounds. This sweet, gentle girl is looking for a loving new home through no fault of her own. Her owner can no longer safely care for her due to health and mobility challenges, and their greatest wish is to see Ooyoo cherished by another family.Ooyoo is the definition of a well-mannered companion. She is completely house trained, has never had accidents indoors, and is happiest with a simple daily routine. She’s incredibly intelligent and knows a variety of helpful tasks, from bringing her leash when it’s time for a walk to fetching household items like the phone or remote.She has wonderful house manners—you won’t find her chewing furniture, scratching doors, or getting into mischief.
Read more about Ooyoo
She’s also a quiet dog who rarely barks unless there’s a reason.Ooyoo is affectionate and deeply loyal to her people. She has a natural instinct to protect her family while remaining gentle and respectful with those she knows. She’s also a clean dog with an easygoing nature, making her a wonderful companion for someone looking for a calm, mature best friend.She has recently experienced some vision changes, but they do not seem to interfere with her daily life, and she continues to enjoy her walks and exploring the world around her. 8 years old 44 pounds Spayed female Canaan Dog mix House trained Quiet & well-mannered Exceptionally intelligent Looking for a loving forever homeIf you’re looking for a loyal companion who already knows how to be the perfect house dog, Ooyoo may be exactly who you’ve been waiting for.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
6. Thor & Ellie
Both dogs get along great with kids. They both seem to get along with other dogs that are medium or small but we are unsure if they get along other large dogs. Not recommend to be around cats or other small pets since they are a hunting breed. Thor and Ellie are 7-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer siblings who are looking for a loving home where they can continue being part of a family. They have spent their lives around adults, children, and other dogs and have always enjoyed being involved in everyday family activities. Both dogs are affectionate, social, and happiest when they are around people.
Read more about Thor & Ellie
Whether it’s relaxing with the family, going for walks or chasing a favorite rope toy, they simply enjoy being included. They thrive in an environment that provides structure, consistency, and regular interaction. Ellie is often the first one to win people over. She has a gentle, affectionate personality and genuinely enjoys attention and companionship. She loves being close to her people and is eager to be part of whatever is going on around her. Like many dogs, she can occasionally become vocal when reacting to neighboring dogs through a fence, but she settles well when redirected. Thor is a big-hearted dog with an equally big personality. He is incredibly people-oriented and forms strong bonds with his family. He thrives on companionship and loves being involved in family life. Thor can be a bit like a toddler at times—he prefers not to be left out and does best in a home where he receives plenty of attention, activity, and interaction. Because he becomes stressed when separated from his people, he may whine or attempt to reunite with them, so a secure yard and a family committed to providing companionship and structure are important for his success. Both dogs have done well with children and other dogs throughout their lives. They are not a good fit for homes with cats or small animals due to their strong prey drive. Their ideal home would be with an active family or individual who understands the German Shorthaired Pointer breed and can provide regular exercise, companionship, and consistency. In return, Thor and Ellie offer loyalty, affection, entertainment, and the kind of companionship that makes them feel like true members of the family.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- Adopt together
7. Betsy
Sweet Betsy came into rescue back in December after landing at West LA Animal Services with several medical concerns. We immediately got this precious girl to the vet so her routine care could be completed and all of her medical needs could be addressed.
Betsy is now spayed, microchipped, up to date on vaccines, and both her heartworm and fecal tests were negative. Sadly, she was diagnosed with Cushing’s Disease, but the good news is that it is manageable with daily medication. Her medication costs approximately $80–$100 per month and will be needed for the rest of her life.
Read more about Betsy
Despite her diagnosis, Betsy is an absolute joy! She lives with multiple dogs and gets along well with everyone — except at mealtime. Betsy is very food motivated, so she does need to be fed separately because she will happily try to sample everyone else’s dinner too!
Other than that little quirk, Betsy truly is the BEST. She uses the doggie door like a pro, rides wonderfully in the car, and absolutely loves to cuddle. Estimated to be around 12 years old and weighing 19 pounds, she is the perfect mix of couch companion and walking buddy. Whether you’re settling in for a TV marathon or taking a leisurely stroll around the block, Betsy will be right by your side.
This sweet Senior Señorita is simply looking for someone to open their heart and home so she can enjoy her golden years surrounded by love. Could that be you?
If you’d like to give Betsy the forever home she deserves, please complete an adoption application at
Boston Buddies
Adoption donation: $150 - My adoption fee has been generously sponsored!
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
8. Birdie
Meet Birdie
This sweet senior min pin mix has been through more than her fair share, but despite it all, she still has so much love left to give. She is roughly 10 pounds
Birdie found herself at the shelter through no fault of her own after what appears to have been a very hard life. Now, she’s looking for something simple: a soft place to land, gentle care, and someone who will finally show her the kindness she’s always deserved.
Read more about Birdie
She may be an older gal, but Birdie quiet spirit and soulful eyes have a way of sneaking right into your heart. She’s the kind of dog who doesn’t ask for much — just patience, comfort, and love. In return, you’ll get the kind of gratitude and companionship only a senior dog can give.
To meet or adopt this adorable girl, please fill out an adoption application here: https://muttsinneed.org/apply/adopt
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
Adopting a senior dog in Orange
Older dogs are usually calm, affectionate and happy with shorter walks, which makes them a good match for older adults and first-time dog owners.
Ask the rescue about the dog's health and vet history. Many rescues charge less to adopt a senior dog.
Many small dogs live to 15 or older, so a senior dog can still be part of your family for years.
Rescues with senior dogs near Orange
- Love All AnimalsDana Point, CA · 4 senior dogs above
- New Beginnings for AnimalsMission Viejo, CA · 1 senior dog above
- Animals Rule Placement FoundationSan Pedro, CA · 1 senior dog above
- Boston Buddies, Inc.Huntington Beach, CA · 1 senior dog above
- Mutts in NeedNewport Beach, CA · 1 senior dog above
Questions about adopting senior dogs in Orange
How many senior dogs are up for adoption in Orange?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Orange, California, have 85 senior dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a senior dog in Orange?
The rescues with the most senior dogs near Orange right now are Love All Animals (Dana Point, CA), New Beginnings for Animals (Mission Viejo, CA) and Animals Rule Placement Foundation (San Pedro, CA). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.
How old is a senior dog?
It depends on their size. Large and giant breeds are usually counted as seniors from about seven years old, and small dogs from about ten. Many small dogs live to 15 or older, so an older dog can still have plenty of years ahead.
Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a dog may have been adopted since this page was updated.