Paterson, NJ

Senior Dogs for Adoption in Paterson, NJ: 12 Older Dogs Looking for a Home

Senior Dogs up for adoption near Paterson, NJ

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Paterson have 13 senior dogs up for adoption. Here are the 12 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. Penelope 11/5

Senior · Female · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed · 21 mi from Paterson

Birthdate: 10/14/2017Breed: One of a kindWeight: 65lbs"I’m one of the newest arrivals at Paws Crossed, and I'm settling in while the team gets to know me better. Check back soon for my full bio or, better yet, come meet me in person—I might just be your new best friend!"The Rescue is open 7 days a week for you to come and meet our pets! Walk-ins are welcome! In order to interact with them, you’ll need a simple questionnaire filled out. You can fill this out at the Rescue or before you come in at: https://petstablished.com/adoption_form/36924/generic If you have any questions, please email us at adoptions@pawscrossedny.org for more information.

Read more about Penelope 11/5

Please understand that we cannot hold pets for any reason. All adoptions are done on a first come, first adopt basis for pre-approved applicants. The Shelter software system requires that we choose a predominant breed or breed mix for our dogs. Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable so for most of our dogs we are only guessing at predominant breed or breed mix. We encourage you to select your new companion by considering each dog's individual personality and pet qualities instead of relying on a breed label that is only a guess.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
Adopt Penelope 11/5 fromPaws Crossed Animal Rescue Inc.Elmsford, NY · listed Nov 4

2. Dailey TX

Senior (7 years 11 months) · Male · Poodle (Standard) (medium coat) · 13 mi from Paterson

When Dailey's owner became too ill to care for him any longer, Dailey was brought to NorthStar Pet Rescue rather than a shelter. This boy is a 8-year-old Poodle who was emaciated when he was rescued but he has been eating well and has put on some weight.

Dailey is a super friendly boy who gets along well with other dogs. He knows the Sit command and is crate trained, too.

If you're interested in giving Dailey a loving home for the rest of his days, please complete an adoption application at www.northstarpets.org and be sure to ask for him by name!

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Dailey TX fromNorthstar Pet RescueBoonton, NJ · listed Nov 2

3. Dazie TX

Senior (8 years 11 months) · Female · Poodle (Standard) (medium coat) · 13 mi from Paterson

When Dazie's owner became too ill to care for her any longer, Dazie was brought to NorthStar Pet Rescue rather than a shelter. This gal is a 9-year-old Poodle who is at least 15 pounds underweight. She is now getting the vetting and healthy food she needs to get to a healthy weight. Dazie gets along well with other dogs and is crate trained, too.

If you're interested in giving Dazie a loving home for the rest of her days, please complete an adoption application at www.northstarpets.org and be sure to ask for her by name!

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Dazie TX fromNorthstar Pet RescueBoonton, NJ · listed Nov 2

4. Hope

Senior (7 years 1 month) · Female · Bullmastiff (short coat) · 19 mi from Paterson

SHE’S READY FOR A WHOLE LOT OF LOVE — ARE YOU?

Meet Hope, our beautiful Bullmastiff who is fully vetted and ready for her forever family.

If personality came in extra-large, Hope would have plenty to spare. She’s funny, affectionate, easygoing, and has just enough Bullmastiff stubbornness to keep you smiling.

Despite her size, Hope is very easy to manage both on and off leash and is respectful of the things around her. She’s completely house-trained, rarely barks (although she's very alert to her surroundings), grew up around kids, and is currently living in a foster home with two other dogs and doing well.

Read more about Hope

Hope loves her walks, but she’s a lower-energy girl who doesn’t need miles of exercise and prefers walking when it is cooler outside and always enjoys having a sip of water now and then. She’s equally happy playing with you or spending the afternoon snoozing on a pillow or dog bed. On a beautiful day, give her a sunny patch of grass where she can stretch out with the cool grass against her belly and Hope is in heaven.

She also loves being very close to her people often laying right at your feet. Stop petting her too soon and you may get a good nudge reminding you that your job isn’t finished. Put a baby gate between Hope and you and she’ll make it known that she’d prefer full access, thank you very much. Once she gets her way, she’ll happily settle down beside you.

Hope is particular about a few other things, too. A walk is for walking and keeping tabs on her local territory. Bathroom business is a private backyard affair only, and Hope takes selecting the perfect spot very seriously. A fenced in back yard for her to roam and do her business is very important for a successful adoption. She does not use walks for going potty, no matter how much encouragement or distance is provided.

And then there are apples. Start cutting one and Hope will hear it from across the house and come running for her share.

Hope is loyal, loving, wonderfully laid-back, and genuinely easy to have around. She doesn’t ask for much: a comfy bed, a nice walk, some sunshine, plenty of affection, and a family to call her own.

It’s part affection, part Bullmastiff stubbornness, and 100% Hope.

Could Hope be the easygoing companion you’ve been looking for?

ADOPT HOPE AT BFDAAA.COM

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Hope fromBest Friend Dog and Animal Adoption IncCranford, NJ · listed Sep 28

5. Kym's Ginger TX

Senior (8 years) · Female · Terrier / Mixed (long coat) · 13 mi from Paterson

Meet Ginger, an 8-year-old scruffy Terrier mix who has brought an immense amount of joy and love to her foster home from the very moment she arrived. Fun, energetic, and endlessly affectionate, Ginger makes herself right at home immediately and runs up to excitedly greet anyone who walks through the front door. She is completely house-trained with zero accidents and loves staying active by playing with toys, running around the backyard, and going for walks. When playtime is over, this sweet girl is more than happy to curl up right next to you on the couch for a cozy cuddle session.

Read more about Kym's Ginger TX

Ginger is used to having constant company and thrives best in a home where someone will be around more often than away. She gets along wonderfully with people and other dogs, and while she hasn't lived with small children, she has always been friendly with the neighbors' kids. Due to a history of being told she is not a fan of cats, a feline-free home would suit her best. She is also not a nuisance barker, only speaking up if she spots a squirrel or a deer outside.

Having never been in a crate, Ginger is looking for a home where she doesn't have to start; she prefers sleeping with her humans and gives you plenty of personal space throughout the night. If sleeping arrangements require it, she could likely be trained to settle into a dog bed in your bedroom. Sweet, well-mannered, and full of life, Ginger is ready to bring her bright spirit to a forever family.

If you'd like to meet sweet Ginger, please fill out an adoption application and ask for KYM'S GINGER TX!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Kym's Ginger TX fromNorthstar Pet RescueBoonton, NJ · listed Sep 17

6. Ruxpin

Senior · Male · American Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 8 mi from Paterson

Ruxpin (13) and Tata (7) would ideally find a home together, but we understand that’s a big ask. We are willing to consider separating them if necessary, but please consider both before making a decision. They’ve already lost so much, and keeping them together would give them some comfort and familiarity during an incredibly difficult transition.Ruxpin is looking for a new home through RHF Safe Passage Responsible Rehoming Initiative,due to a difficult situation his owner is facing. Breed: Pitbull Weight: 70 lbs Age: 13 yrs. Old Gender: Male /NeuteredRuxpin is a 13 year old, 70 lb American Pitbull who is ready to find his forever home and enjoy his golden years surrounded by love.Kids: People friendly and best with older children who respect and interact appropriately with dogs.Dogs: Best in a one-dog home (or with Tata) Cats: UnknownHousetrained: YesCeate trained He does not require a crate.

Read more about Ruxpin

Leash manners: Good on leash.Personality: Ruxpin is easy going, sweet-natured, and would love curling up beside you on the couch, however he enjoys short daily walks. He would do best as the only dog in the home or with TataConsider giving this senior boy a loving home and all the attention he deserves.

  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Ruxpin fromRescue Haven FoundationCaldwell, NJ · listed Aug 25

7. CeCe

Senior · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed · 15 mi from Paterson

CeCe (AL) has spent her entire life giving everything she had to everyone but herself. This 8yearold Chihuahua mix came to us just in time—rescued from a backyard breeder only days after delivering six tiny puppies. She is a devoted mother, gentle and attentive, but it’s clear she has lived a life where her worth was measured only by the puppies she could produce. That chapter ends now. CeCe is a small dog with a quiet dignity about her. She’s sweet, calm, and wonderfully good with people and other dogs. There is a softness in her eyes that tells you she wants to trust, wants to belong, and wants—finally—to be someone’s cherished companion rather than a breeding machine.

Read more about CeCe

She will remain with her puppies for the next several weeks, giving them the start in life she never had. But while she does that, we want her future waiting for her: a home where she is put first, where she is adored, where she is never again used or overlooked. If you’ve ever wanted to change a dog’s life in the most profound way, CeCe is that dog. Apply online to adopt CeCe (AL) at www.rescuedogsrocknyc.org. Cece’s adoption fee is $300.Please be sure to reference this pet's name as CeCe (AL) in case of duplicate names within the rescue. Thank you!All pets are current on age-appropriate vaccines at the time of adoption. Given technical constraints on this database, this pet's location may not be as listed here. We can, however, provide transport support for pets in foster at a considerable distance from the adopter.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt CeCe fromRescue Dogs Rock, IncNew York, NY · listed Aug 18

8. Blackjack Dixon

Senior (8 years 2 months) · Male · Black Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 17 mi from Paterson

*Adoption fee sponsored by a generous donor!

Meet BlackJack! At 8 years old and 50 pounds, BlackJack is the definition of a loyal, easygoing companion. This handsome guy has so much love left to give and is hoping to find a family that will appreciate what an incredible dog he is.

BlackJack is friendly with everyone he meets and gets along wonderfully with both people and other dogs. Whether you’re looking for a walking buddy, a couch companion, or a best friend to share your days with, BlackJack is happy to be by your side. His sweet, gentle personality makes him an easy addition to just about any home.

Read more about Blackjack Dixon

BlackJack is microchipped, neutered, and up to date on all vaccinations. His adoption fee is sponsored! If you’re looking for a wonderful dog with a heart of gold, BlackJack is ready to become your newest family member.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Blackjack Dixon fromEleventh Hour RescueRockaway, NJ · listed Aug 7

9. Rye

Senior · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 15 mi from Paterson

Meet Rye (SC) — a tenderhearted 8 year young neutered male Terrier mix with the sweetest little face and a spirit that just melts you. At 45 lbs, he’s the perfect “medium guy,” easy to scoop up for a hug and just as easy to fit into any home and routine. Rye is currently healing from fur loss caused by allergies, but he’s already on the upswing. With a little care and comfort, his gorgeous light coat will soon be growing back in soft, healthy waves. Even without all his fluff, his gentle nature and warm eyes do all the shining for him. He’s affectionately known as the “sweetest” in the neighborhood, friendly with dogs of all sizes, couldn't care less about cats, loves men, women and children.

Read more about Rye

Rye isn’t demanding but smart and quick to learn — he’s a loving companion who wants to be near you, soaking up every bit of kindness offered. If you’re looking for a gentle soul who will adore you forever, Rye is ready to meet you. Apply online to adopt Rye (SC) at www.rescuedogsrocknyc.org. His adoption fee is $300.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Rye fromRescue Dogs Rock, IncNew York, NY · listed Jul 15

10. Chili Athens

Senior (12 years 3 months) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 17 mi from Paterson

Chili is a 12-year-old, 37-pound "mini pittie" with the sweetest soul and the cutest little grandma face you've ever seen. This tiny senior has endured more heartbreak than any dog ever should. After her owner tragically lost their life in a house fire, Chili found herself alone in a partner shelter in Athens, Georgia. Thankfully, we were able to bring her to safety, and now all that's missing is a loving home to spend her golden years.

Read more about Chili Athens

Don't let her age fool you. Chili is surprisingly spry and still has plenty of pep in her step! She absolutely adores other dogs of all sizes and has the gentle, easygoing personality that makes everyone fall in love with her. She's simply looking for a soft bed, kind people, and the chance to be cherished again.

Chili is microchipped, spayed, and up to date on her vaccinations. After losing everything she knew, we would love nothing more than to see this wonderful little grandma dog finally find the happy ending she deserves.

  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Chili Athens fromEleventh Hour RescueRockaway, NJ · listed Jul 7

11. Lily

Senior · Female · Pharaoh Hound / Mixed (short coat) · 15 mi from Paterson

We are currently building a brand-new website to make supporting our rescue easier than ever. Because of this, our main site (zanisfurryfriends.org) will be temporarily offline, but we can't wait to share the final look with you very soon.In the meantime, our rescue work continues!
If you have space in your heart and home to adopt or foster, or if you simply have questions, please reach out to Gisella Mcsweeny info@zanisfurryfriends.org or Michael at mripinsky@gmail.com.

Sweet almost 10yrs old Lily came back to us after 9yrs because of a divorce. She's a lovely dog who will make a family or a single person very happy

Read more about Lily

Meet Lilly, a sweet 10-year-old Egyptian Hound (Pharaoh Hound) who is looking for her perfect forever home! Lilly is an absolute dream and the ultimate companion, especially for an elderly person looking for a gentle, low-maintenance best friend. As a distinguished older hound, she is way past the chaotic puppy phase and prefers the relaxed, finer things in life.If your perfect afternoon includes unwinding to your favorite tunes or relaxing with a nice glass of wine, Lilly is your ultimate partner.She is a gorgeous Egyptian Hound (often known as a Pharaoh Hound), an ancient and regal breed prized for its calm, intelligent, and deeply loyal temperament. She made the long journey all the way from Egypt to find her person.Lilly absolutely loves outings to dog-friendly spots like farmer markets & Wineries. She is the perfect date to sit quietly by your side on the porch, enjoying the breeze and the vineyard views.She genuinely loves listening to music. Whether it's classical, jazz, or soft acoustic, she will happily curl up and doze off while the melodies play.She doesn't ask for much—just a cozy bed, a gentle hand to pet her ears, and a peaceful home to share her golden years.Let's get this beautiful senior girl into the loving home she deserves. Please share this post to help Lilly find her perfect match! If you are interested in adopting, fostering, or learning more, please send us a message.Zani's Furry Friends ZFF Zanisfurryfriends.org

All dogs are located in NY/NJ area All our puppies need puppy play dates/doggy facetime so we recommend homes with other pups or daily interactions to keep them tired out, happy and social.

Facebook: Zani's Furry Friends ZFF (weekly adoption event info posted there) Twitter: zanisff Instagram: zanisfurryfriends

Dogs are spayed/neutered, UTD on age appropriate vaccines, Rabies vaxed, and microchipped (not Lyme vaxed but we seriously recommend it!) All are in the NY/NJ area but we will adopt out of state to the purrfect home and in some cases, we can arrange transport. Please go to our site https://zanisfurryfriends.org fill out an application
Many of us (cats/dogs) will be on display on Saturdays or Sundays, weather dependent--please ask by writing us at dogs@zanisfurryfriends.org and following us on FB. If you are seriously interested in adopting one of us in particular, please fill out an application early Friday so that we can be sure to be there. Otherwise we decide based on other variables. Usually we are in our foster homes so this is a bit more stressful and a slightly artificial environment but we do want to be seen and find our furever homes too.

Please consider providing a home for more than one dog, especially if you are considering adopting a puppy. Dogs are pack animals and very much enjoy as well as need other dog company to learn to play, socialize and be good companion animals to people. The upside to this is that you won't feel as guilty leaving them alone and you get twice the love. Please come! And if you can't adopt, maybe you can foster or volunteer, and you can always donate!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Lily fromZani's Furry FriendsNyc, NY · listed Jun 29

12. Chaplin NJ

Senior (15 years 5 months) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed · 17 mi from Paterson

Chaplin is a loving active little guy despite being 15 years old. He was adopted 10 years ago and lived with his people and 1 cat for 9 years. His human mother died, and subsequently his dad lost his job and apartment and was having health concerns. He has been living with a foster family who have 3 golden retrievers and 5 cats with no difficulties with any of them. He is small at 9.5 lbs., loves to snuggle close on the couch, and really appreciates chin stroking. He has been around children ages 2 to 14 and is fine with them but would probably be better with older kids as he appreciates children who respect his space and understand appropriate boundaries; especially around mealtime. Chaplin is microchipped, neutered, and up to date on immunizations. His adoption fee is $205. If you have the furever home Chaplin can finally settle into, apply at ehrdogs.org and ask for CHAPLIN NJ.

  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Chaplin NJ fromEleventh Hour RescueRockaway, NJ · listed May 18

Adopting a senior dog in Paterson

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 Paterson

Questions about adopting senior dogs in Paterson

How many senior dogs are up for adoption in Paterson?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Paterson, New Jersey, have 13 senior dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a senior dog in Paterson?

The rescues with the most senior dogs near Paterson right now are Northstar Pet Rescue (Boonton, NJ), Eleventh Hour Rescue (Rockaway, NJ) and Rescue Dogs Rock, Inc (New York, NY). 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.