Westminster, CA

Senior Dogs for Adoption in Westminster, CA: 10 Older Dogs Looking for a Home

Senior Dogs up for adoption near Westminster, CA

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Westminster have 80 senior dogs up for adoption. Here are the 10 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.

1. Sombra

Senior (6 years 11 months) · Female · Dachshund / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 23 mi from Westminster

Meet Sombra! ❤️

A Lovely Little Dachshund Terrier Mix Ready for Her Next Chapter!

Breed: Dachshund Terrier Mix
Gender: Female DOB: 10/30/2019
Age: 7 Years
Weight: 16 lbs
Good With: Dogs ✔️ | Kids ✔️ | Cats: Unknown
Medical: Spay and Vaccination Status Not Confirmed
Personality: Individual Temperament Still Being Evaluated

❤️ Personality & Breed Information

Meet Sombra, a beautiful 7-year-old Dachshund Terrier mix weighing just 16 pounds! This lovely little lady is searching for a forever family who will give her the comfort, companionship, and stability she deserves.

Read more about Sombra

At seven years old, Sombra has moved beyond the demanding puppy stages, making her a wonderful candidate for someone interested in adopting an adult dog. Her individual personality is still being evaluated, but she has the opportunity to build a loving bond with a family who will give her time to settle in.

About the Dachshund Terrier Mix

Dachshunds and Terriers are known for their intelligence, determination, loyalty, and curious personalities. Originally bred as working dogs, both breeds can have strong instincts to explore, investigate interesting scents, and engage with their surroundings.

As a Dachshund Terrier mix, Sombra may display some of these characteristics:

Loyal and Affectionate: Many develop strong attachments to their families.

Intelligent and Curious: They often enjoy exploring, scent games, and interactive activities.

Independent: Their determined personalities benefit from patient, consistent guidance.

Playful: Even mature adults may enjoy toys, games, and daily adventures.

Alert: They can be observant and attentive to their surroundings.

Because Sombra is a mixed breed, her individual temperament and energy level may vary from these general characteristics.

At 16 pounds, Sombra is a manageable size for many households. Her ideal home will provide appropriate exercise, companionship, and a comfortable environment where she can feel secure.

Training, Adjustment & What to Expect

Although Sombra is seven years old, adopters should not assume she is fully house-trained or familiar with household routines. Rescue dogs may arrive with basic training at best.

Her future family should be prepared to reinforce house training, leash manners, basic commands, and appropriate household behavior using positive reinforcement.

Dachshund Terrier mixes often benefit from daily walks, scent-based activities, and mental enrichment. Exercise should be adjusted to Sombra's individual energy level and physical condition.

Sombra is considered suitable for homes with dogs and children, with proper introductions and supervision. Her compatibility with cats is unknown.

Understanding the 3-3-3 Rule

Every rescue dog needs time to adjust:

3 Days: Decompress and begin feeling safe.

3 Weeks: Learn household routines and build confidence.

3 Months: Develop trust and become more comfortable in the family.

These are guidelines, not deadlines. Patience, consistency, and a predictable routine will help Sombra settle into her new home.

Owner Responsibilities & Veterinary Care

Sombra's current spay and vaccination status have not been confirmed. Her adopter should review her medical records and arrange any necessary follow-up care.

Dachshund Terrier Health Considerations

Because of her breed mix and age, Sombra's future family should be aware of several potential health considerations:

Back and Spinal Health: Dachshunds are predisposed to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). If Sombra has inherited a longer back, limiting repetitive jumping and maintaining a healthy weight may help protect her spine.

Joint Health: Smaller dogs may develop kneecap instability or age-related joint discomfort.

Dental Care: Regular tooth brushing and veterinary dental examinations are important.

Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy body condition supports mobility and overall health.

Age-Appropriate Care: As Sombra gets older, regular wellness examinations can help

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Sombra fromOzzie and Friends Rescue IncInglewood, Ca · listed Oct 28

2. Chewie

Senior · Male · Maltese / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed (medium coat) · 23 mi from Westminster

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
Adopt Chewie fromNew Beginnings for AnimalsMission Viejo, CA · listed Sep 17

3. Palomo GR

Senior (7 years 11 months) · Male · West Highland White Terrier Westie / Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 23 mi from Westminster

Meet Palomo

A Gentle Senior Who Wants Nothing More Than to Love and Be Loved

Breed: West Highland White Terrier Mix
Gender: Male | Age: 09/14/2018 | Weight: 15 pounds
Good With: Dogs ✔️ | Cats ✔️ | Kids ✔️
Personality: ❤️ Very Loving | Calm | Affectionate | Social with People
Medical: History of Hip Fracture | Spay/Neuter & Vaccination Status: Fixed and current on vaccinations.
Location: Los Angeles, California
Transportation: Ozzie and Friends Rescue coordinates safe transportation for approved adopters throughout the United States.

❤️ Personality, Breed Information & Palomo’s Story

Read more about Palomo GR

Palomo is an 8-year-old West Highland White Terrier mix with a gentle personality and a very simple wish: he just wants to be loved.

He is an incredibly loving and calm boy who enjoys being around people. Palomo also gets along with other dogs and cats, making him a wonderful candidate for a home with other pets.

Palomo has been through a difficult chapter. He previously suffered a fractured hip. His veterinarian recommended rest, and he was given the time he needed to recover. His history doesn't define him, but it is important information for his future family to know so his comfort and mobility can continue to be monitored.

What stands out most about Palomo today isn't what happened to him—it's his temperament. He is peaceful, affectionate, and simply wants love and companionship.

As a West Highland White Terrier mix, Palomo may share traits associated with Westies, including being affectionate, intelligent, curious, loyal, and full of personality. At eight years old, however, Palomo's individual personality is already clear: he's a calm, loving companion looking for a comfortable place to call home.

Training, Adjustment & What to Expect

Palomo is a senior dog, and his new home should give him a comfortable routine, gentle exercise, affection, and plenty of opportunities to relax near his people.

Rescue dogs may arrive with basic training at best, so his family should patiently reinforce any household manners, leash skills, or routines he needs using positive reinforcement.

The 3-3-3 Rule

3 Days to decompress and begin feeling safe

3 Weeks to understand his new household routine

3 Months to fully settle in, build trust, and feel at home

A quiet sleeping area, predictable schedule, comfortable bedding, and patience will help Palomo settle into his new life.

Owner Responsibilities & Veterinary Care

Palomo has a history of a hip fracture, so his future veterinarian should be made aware of the previous injury. Although rest was the treatment recommended at the time, his family should continue monitoring his comfort and mobility as he gets older.

Any limping, stiffness, difficulty getting up, reluctance to walk or jump, signs of pain, or changes in mobility should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

As an 8-year-old dog, Palomo would also benefit from regular senior wellness examinations and any bloodwork his veterinarian recommends. Keeping him at a healthy weight can help reduce unnecessary stress on his hips and joints.

His neuter and vaccination status were not provided and should be confirmed through his medical records.

Adoption Information

If you are interested in adopting Palomo, please complete an adoption application at:

https://www.ozzieandfriendsrescue.org/adoptions

Ozzie and Friends Rescue is a Los Angeles-based nonprofit dedicated to rescuing dogs in need and helping them find safe, loving forever homes. While based in Southern California, we coordinate safe transportation for approved adopters throughout the United States.

Senior dogs deserve families who understand that their remaining years are every bit as valuable as their first ones. Adopting Palomo means committing to his comfort, veterinary care, companionship, and happiness throughout his senior years.

Palomo isn't asking for big adventures or a complicated life. He's a calm, gentle boy who simply wants love—a comfortable place to rest, people

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Palomo GR fromOzzie and Friends Rescue IncInglewood, Ca · listed Sep 12

4. Elmer

Senior · Male · Chihuahua (short coat) · 17 mi from Westminster

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
Adopt Elmer fromAnimals Rule Placement FoundationSan Pedro, CA · listed Sep 9

5. Maya

Senior · Female · Maltese / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed · 25 mi from Westminster

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
Adopt Maya fromLove All AnimalsDana Point, CA · listed Sep 8

6. Kendall & Kylie

Senior · Female · Chihuahua · 25 mi from Westminster

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
Adopt Kendall & Kylie fromLove All AnimalsDana Point, CA · listed Aug 12

7. Ooyoo

Senior · Female · Canaan Dog · 25 mi from Westminster

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
Adopt Ooyoo fromLove All AnimalsDana Point, CA · listed Jul 10

8. Thor & Ellie

Senior · Male · German Shorthaired Pointer · 25 mi from Westminster

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
Adopt Thor & Ellie fromLove All AnimalsDana Point, CA · listed Jun 12

9. Betsy

Senior · Female · Boston Terrier (short coat) · 5 mi from Westminster

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
Adopt Betsy fromBoston Buddies, Inc.Huntington Beach, CA · listed May 18

10. Birdie

Senior · Female · Miniature Pinscher / Mixed (short coat) · 11 mi from Westminster

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
Adopt Birdie fromMutts in NeedNewport Beach, CA · listed May 9

Adopting a senior dog in Westminster

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 Westminster

Questions about adopting senior dogs in Westminster

How many senior dogs are up for adoption in Westminster?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Westminster, California, have 80 senior dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a senior dog in Westminster?

The rescues with the most senior dogs near Westminster right now are Love All Animals (Dana Point, CA), Ozzie and Friends Rescue Inc (Inglewood, Ca) and New Beginnings for Animals (Mission Viejo, 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.