Philadelphia, PA

Senior Dogs for Adoption in Philadelphia, PA: 12 Older Dogs Looking for a Home

Senior Dogs up for adoption near Philadelphia, PA

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Philadelphia have 12 senior dogs up for adoption. Here are all 12, 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. Shih tzu MALE

Senior · Male · Shih Tzu / Mixed (long coat) · 13 mi from Philadelphia

Poor Meeko's family was going back to the Philippines and of course wanted to take their dog but the cost was 8000 dollars for quarantine. His owner cannot pay this so he is here ready for a new home. He has been around a small grandchild child and his owners but no other people.He will need an experienced home until he gets used to you best to have no fast movements. He does get along with other dogs too He is up to date and just had a dental done. He is a cute guy and will make a great companion. Please fill out an application to meet him at www.animalsanctuarysociety.org

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Shih tzu MALE fromAnimal Sanctuary Society Inc.Mt. Laurel, NJ · listed Oct 27

2. Meeko

Senior · Male · Shih Tzu (long coat) · 13 mi from Philadelphia

Poor Meeko's family was going back to the Philippines and of course wanted to take their dog but the cost was 8000 dollars for quarantine. His owner cannot pay this so he is here ready for a new home. He has been around a small grandchild child and his owners but no other people.He will need an experienced home until he gets used to you best to have no fast movements. He does get along with other dogs too He is up to date and just had a dental done. He is a cute guy and will make a great companion. Please fill out an application to meet him at www.animalsanctuarysociety.org

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Meeko fromAnimal Sanctuary Society Inc.Mt. Laurel, NJ · listed Oct 21

3. Nelly

Senior · Male · Chihuahua · 21 mi from Philadelphia

Nelly is a shy boy. He’s a 10 pound, 7-year-old Chihuahua mix who prefers to be alone. Maybe that’s because he spent his previous life in a hoarding situation and now he’d like some alone time. Whatever the reason, he’ll open up more with time and your patience. He’s treat motivated and enjoys stuffies and fluffy dog beds. With time and a bit of work, not to mention treats, this is a boy who will settle down into a happy life with you! (posted 10/17/26, ME) " "Adoption Fee: $395.00-- covers microchip, worming, all vaccines, monthly heart worm preventative, monthly tick/flea preventative, spaying/neutering, health certificate, and complete medical records.

Read more about Nelly

Transport Fee: $170.00-- We consider the transport to be of great importance and, as such, take particular care of the dogs during the trip. We make every effort to arrive with healthy and minimally stressed dogs. It is rare that we know with certainty the ages or mixes that make up our dogs, but we do our best to be as accurate as possible based upon our experience. " " "

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Nelly fromCrossing Paths Animal RescueYardley, PA · listed Oct 20

4. Nelly

Senior · Male · Chihuahua · 21 mi from Philadelphia

Nelly is a shy boy. He’s a 10 pound, 7-year-old Chihuahua mix who prefers to be alone. Maybe that’s because he spent his previous life in a hoarding situation and now he’d like some alone time. Whatever the reason, he’ll open up more with time and your patience. He’s treat motivated and enjoys stuffies and fluffy dog beds. With time and a bit of work, not to mention treats, this is a boy who will settle down into a happy life with you! (posted 10/17/26, ME) " "Adoption Fee: $395.00-- covers microchip, worming, all vaccines, monthly heart worm preventative, monthly tick/flea preventative, spaying/neutering, health certificate, and complete medical records.

Read more about Nelly

Transport Fee: $170.00-- We consider the transport to be of great importance and, as such, take particular care of the dogs during the trip. We make every effort to arrive with healthy and minimally stressed dogs. It is rare that we know with certainty the ages or mixes that make up our dogs, but we do our best to be as accurate as possible based upon our experience. " " "

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Nelly fromCrossing Paths Animal RescueYardley, PA · listed Oct 20

5. Dorian

Senior · Female · Chihuahua · 21 mi from Philadelphia

If you’re anything like me, big eyes will get you every time. Such is the case with our little girl named Dorian, a 10-year-old, Chihuahua mix. You might even say that her eyes are the only things about her that aren’t little! You see, she only weighs 8 pounds, and, because of that and her age, children in the home should be older than ten years or have experience handling small dogs. Dorian came to us from a hoarding situation and loves stuffies and a fluffy bed. She’s a calm girl with low energy who is dog friendly and attention seeking. Can you blame her? Oh, just look into those big eyes so filled with love! (posted 10/17/26, ME) " " " "Adoption Fees for Seniors and those who have been in rescue for prolonged periods of time are reduced to $250.00 including transport-- covers microchip, worming, all vaccines, monthly heart worm preventative, monthly tick/flea preventative, spaying/neutering, health certificate, and complete medical records.

Read more about Dorian

We consider the transport to be of great importance and, as such, take particular care of the dogs during the trip. We make every effort to arrive with healthy and minimally stressed dogs. It is rare that we know with certainty the ages or mixes that make up our dogs, but we do our best to be as accurate as possible based upon our experience.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Dorian fromCrossing Paths Animal RescueYardley, PA · listed Oct 20

6. Dorian

Senior · Female · Chihuahua · 21 mi from Philadelphia

If you’re anything like me, big eyes will get you every time. Such is the case with our little girl named Dorian, a 10-year-old, Chihuahua mix. You might even say that her eyes are the only things about her that aren’t little! You see, she only weighs 8 pounds, and, because of that and her age, children in the home should be older than ten years or have experience handling small dogs. Dorian came to us from a hoarding situation and loves stuffies and a fluffy bed. She’s a calm girl with low energy who is dog friendly and attention seeking. Can you blame her? Oh, just look into those big eyes so filled with love! (posted 10/17/26, ME) " " " "Adoption Fees for Seniors and those who have been in rescue for prolonged periods of time are reduced to $250.00 including transport-- covers microchip, worming, all vaccines, monthly heart worm preventative, monthly tick/flea preventative, spaying/neutering, health certificate, and complete medical records.

Read more about Dorian

We consider the transport to be of great importance and, as such, take particular care of the dogs during the trip. We make every effort to arrive with healthy and minimally stressed dogs. It is rare that we know with certainty the ages or mixes that make up our dogs, but we do our best to be as accurate as possible based upon our experience.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Dorian fromCrossing Paths Animal RescueYardley, PA · listed Oct 20

7. Nelly

Senior · Male · Chihuahua · 21 mi from Philadelphia

Nelly is a shy boy. He’s a 10 pound, 7-year-old Chihuahua mix who prefers to be alone. Maybe that’s because he spent his previous life in a hoarding situation and now he’d like some alone time. Whatever the reason, he’ll open up more with time and your patience. He’s treat motivated and enjoys stuffies and fluffy dog beds. With time and a bit of work, not to mention treats, this is a boy who will settle down into a happy life with you! (posted 10/17/26, ME) " "Adoption Fee: $395.00-- covers microchip, worming, all vaccines, monthly heart worm preventative, monthly tick/flea preventative, spaying/neutering, health certificate, and complete medical records.

Read more about Nelly

Transport Fee: $170.00-- We consider the transport to be of great importance and, as such, take particular care of the dogs during the trip. We make every effort to arrive with healthy and minimally stressed dogs. It is rare that we know with certainty the ages or mixes that make up our dogs, but we do our best to be as accurate as possible based upon our experience. " " "

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Nelly fromCrossing Paths Animal RescueYardley, PA · listed Oct 18

8. Dorian

Senior · Female · Chihuahua · 21 mi from Philadelphia

If you’re anything like me, big eyes will get you every time. Such is the case with our little girl named Dorian, a 10-year-old, Chihuahua mix. You might even say that her eyes are the only things about her that aren’t little! You see, she only weighs 8 pounds, and, because of that and her age, children in the home should be older than ten years or have experience handling small dogs. Dorian came to us from a hoarding situation and loves stuffies and a fluffy bed. She’s a calm girl with low energy who is dog friendly and attention seeking. Can you blame her? Oh, just look into those big eyes so filled with love! (posted 10/17/26, ME) " " " "Adoption Fees for Seniors and those who have been in rescue for prolonged periods of time are reduced to $250.00 including transport-- covers microchip, worming, all vaccines, monthly heart worm preventative, monthly tick/flea preventative, spaying/neutering, health certificate, and complete medical records.

Read more about Dorian

We consider the transport to be of great importance and, as such, take particular care of the dogs during the trip. We make every effort to arrive with healthy and minimally stressed dogs. It is rare that we know with certainty the ages or mixes that make up our dogs, but we do our best to be as accurate as possible based upon our experience.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Dorian fromCrossing Paths Animal RescueYardley, PA · listed Oct 17

9. Homer And Marge

Senior · Male · Beagle / Dachshund · 21 mi from Philadelphia

This is Homer, a 7-year-old Dachshund/Beagle mix who was found roaming the streets with his pal, Marge. These two are so close that they must be adopted together. They love each other and are very loyal. A bonded pair, we will not adopt them out separately. Homer is dog friendly, playful and he loves to be held. So sweet! He has been treated for heartworm and is ready to go home with Marge and you. (posted 9/8/25, ME) " " Fee for both dogs: $500.00: Adoption: $300.00 Transport: $200.00

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Adopt together
Adopt Homer And Marge fromCrossing Paths Animal RescueYardley, PA · listed Oct 1

10. Marge And Homer

Senior · Female · Labrador Retriever · 21 mi from Philadelphia

This is Marge who was found roaming the streets with her pal, Homer. Marge is a 10-year-old, 65-pound Lab mix with a loving nature. She is a bit shy, dog friendly, and crate trained. She loves to just chill and lie around. She recently had a growth removed from one toe which led to its amputation. She has been treated for heartworm and is now ready to be adopted with Homer. They must be adopted together because they’re what we call a bonded pair. They love each other and are very loyal. (posted 9/8/25, ME) Fee for both: $500.00 Adoption: $300.00; Transport: $200.00

  • Adopt together
Adopt Marge And Homer fromCrossing Paths Animal RescueYardley, PA · listed Oct 1

11. Brownie

Senior · Female · Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 13 mi from Philadelphia

At 8 years young and 60 pounds, Brownie is the perfect mix of wisdom, sweetness, and just the right amount of playful spirit. After spending years in a shelter, she’s mastered what it means to be a truly great companion—loyal, loving, and always by your side.Brownie is a smart girl who enjoys figuring out puzzles and games, and she still has a little bounce in her step for gentle walks and playtime. She’s crate trained, but if she had her way, she’d happily trade that in for a cozy spot next to you on the couch.She’s independent when she wants to be, but never too busy for a cuddle session. Brownie is dog selective, and while we’re still learning which dogs she may get along with, she would likely be happiest as the only dog in the home where she can soak up all the love.Through everything life has thrown her way, Brownie has stayed brave, kind, and full of love.

Read more about Brownie

Now all she’s missing is a forever home to call her own.Adopt Brownie—and gain a loyal best friend for life Bcaaofnj.org

  • Good with kids
  • Only dog
  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Brownie fromBurlington County Animal AllianceWillingboro, NJ · listed Jul 19

12. Rupert Lower Fee

Senior · Male · Labrador Retriever · 21 mi from Philadelphia

" " " "He’s adorable and up for adoption! His name is Rupert, he’s 7 years old, and he’s a Lab mix. Rupert is sweet and shy, vocal and loving. He’s treat motivated and knows commands like “sit,” “hi-five,” and “lie down.” What a delight he is! He is shy upon meeting, and takes time to warm up. All he needs is a bit of your patience. Yes! He’s adorable and up for adoption. How about it? (posted 1/30/26, ME) " "Adoption Fees for Seniors and those who have been in rescue for prolonged periods of time are reduced to $250.00 including transport-- covers microchip, worming, all vaccines, monthly heart worm preventative, monthly tick/flea preventative, spaying/neutering, health certificate, and complete medical records.

Read more about Rupert Lower Fee

We consider the transport to be of great importance and, as such, take particular care of the dogs during the trip. We make every effort to arrive with healthy and minimally stressed dogs. It is rare that we know with certainty the ages or mixes that make up our dogs, but we do our best to be as accurate as possible based upon our experience.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Rupert Lower Fee fromCrossing Paths Animal RescueYardley, PA · listed May 6

Adopting a senior dog in Philadelphia

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 Philadelphia

Questions about adopting senior dogs in Philadelphia

How many senior dogs are up for adoption in Philadelphia?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, have 12 senior dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a senior dog in Philadelphia?

The rescues with the most senior dogs near Philadelphia right now are Crossing Paths Animal Rescue (Yardley, PA), Animal Sanctuary Society Inc. (Mt. Laurel, NJ) and Burlington County Animal Alliance (Willingboro, NJ). 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.