Johnson City, TN

Senior Dogs for Adoption in Johnson City, TN: 10 Older Dogs Looking for a Home

Senior Dogs up for adoption near Johnson City, TN

Rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Johnson City have 16 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. Roxy

Senior · Female · Rat Terrier / Mixed · 99 mi from Johnson City

Meet Roxy! 15 years young and still full of love to give!Sometimes life takes an unexpected turn, and through no fault of her own, sweet Roxy finds herself looking for a new place to call home. Roxy was surrendered by a family who loved her dearly, and while starting over at 15 years old isn’t easy, she has so much love left to give to the right family.Roxy is a sweet, affectionate girl whose favorite place to be is right by your side. She’s happiest simply being near her people, soaking up all the love and attention she can get. Don’t let her age fool you, though! She still enjoys the occasional play session with her favorite toys, but what she especially loves is spending time with her dog friends.Roxy gets along wonderfully with both dogs and cats, making her a lovely addition to a home with other furry companions.

Read more about Roxy

She’s more of a homebody and can be nervous in unfamiliar environments or out in public. Car rides aren’t exactly her idea of a good time either! She isn’t difficult in the car, but she does tend to shake and sometimes whine throughout the ride. A cozy home and a predictable routine are much more her speed.When meeting new people, Roxy can be a little shy and skittish at first. She just needs some time, patience, and reassurance to feel comfortable. But once she lets you into her heart, get ready for a little shadow! She becomes incredibly attached to her people and would happily spend her days following you from room to room.As far as her medical history goes, Roxy has an asymptomatic grade 2 heart murmur and mild arthritis. Otherwise, she’s doing wonderfully for a girl her age! She also has a little skin tag on her face, which is purely cosmetic and causes her no medical issues. And honestly, Roxy knows she’s adorable with or without it!Roxy may be 15, but she still has plenty of cuddles, companionship, and love to offer. She’s not looking for grand adventures or a busy lifestyle. She just wants a soft place to land, a family to call her own, and someone who will let her spend her golden years feeling safe, loved, and cherished.Applications can be filled out at www.piedmontanimalrescue.com/adopt! Petfinder and Adopt-A-Pet does NOT send us Applications. We receive many applications and many never respond after processing GREATLY delaying the pets forever home. Please only apply if you are serious about adopting. Please also make sure your pets are up to date on you species applicable Vaccines (rabies, Distemper/Parvo, FVRCP, Bordetella), spayed/neutered, and on Heartworm prevention if a canine. The adoption fee includes their age appropriate vaccinations(DA2PP and Bordetella), Dewormer, spay/neuter, microchip, heartworm test as well as the registration of their microchip information to you.The first step to adopting is to fill out an application for adoption. Once approved we will arrange a time for you to meet the animal you are interested in. If it is a match the adoption can then be completed and you can take home your new furry family member. If it is not a match we will file your approved application and you can wait till you find the perfect match.

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Roxy fromPiedmont Animal RescueMooresville, NC · listed Nov 4

2. Harley

Senior · Female · Terrier / Mixed · 99 mi from Johnson City

Meet Miss Harley! At 11 years young, Harley is a sweet, gentle senior girl who is as quiet as a mouse! She’s a laid-back little lady who loves nothing more than relaxing on the couch and soaking up all the love and attention she can get.Harley is a professional couch potato and will happily let you pet her until your arm falls off! She's doing great with housetraining and lets you know when she needs to go out. She's an easygoing sweetheart who doesn’t ask for much.This precious girl is just looking for a cozy couch, lots of love, and someone to spend her golden years with. Applications can be filled out at www.piedmontanimalrescue.com/adopt! Petfinder and Adopt-A-Pet does NOT send us Applications.

Read more about Harley

We receive many applications and many never respond after processing GREATLY delaying the pets forever home. Please only apply if you are serious about adopting. Please also make sure your pets are up to date on you species applicable Vaccines (rabies, Distemper/Parvo, FVRCP, Bordetella), spayed/neutered, and on Heartworm prevention if a canine. The adoption fee includes their age appropriate vaccinations(DA2PP and Bordetella), Dewormer, spay/neuter, microchip, heartworm test as well as the registration of their microchip information to you.The first step to adopting is to fill out an application for adoption. Once approved we will arrange a time for you to meet the animal you are interested in. If it is a match the adoption can then be completed and you can take home your new furry family member. If it is not a match we will file your approved application and you can wait till you find the perfect match.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Harley fromPiedmont Animal RescueMooresville, NC · listed Oct 30

3. Maranda

Senior · Female · Terrier / Mixed · 99 mi from Johnson City

Meet sweet Miranda! At approximately 11 years young, Miranda is a loving girl with so much sweetness to share! She loves being close to her people and will happily follow you around as your little shadow.Miranda is very treat motivated and loves getting attention. She prefers to be wherever her people are and may let you know when she feels left out of the fun!She also appears to be house trained and has done great with regular potty breaks throughout the day.Miranda is a sweetheart who just wants someone to love and a cozy place to call home. Applications can be filled out at www.piedmontanimalrescue.com/adopt! Petfinder and Adopt-A-Pet does NOT send us Applications.

Read more about Maranda

We receive many applications and many never respond after processing GREATLY delaying the pets forever home. Please only apply if you are serious about adopting. Please also make sure your pets are up to date on you species applicable Vaccines (rabies, Distemper/Parvo, FVRCP, Bordetella), spayed/neutered, and on Heartworm prevention if a canine. The adoption fee includes their age appropriate vaccinations(DA2PP and Bordetella), Dewormer, spay/neuter, microchip, heartworm test as well as the registration of their microchip information to you.The first step to adopting is to fill out an application for adoption. Once approved we will arrange a time for you to meet the animal you are interested in. If it is a match the adoption can then be completed and you can take home your new furry family member. If it is not a match we will file your approved application and you can wait till you find the perfect match.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Maranda fromPiedmont Animal RescueMooresville, NC · listed Oct 30

4. Valentino

Senior · Male · Labrador Retriever / Mixed · 99 mi from Johnson City

Meet Valentino! At 12 years young, Valentino is a handsome, sweet boy looking for his forever home where he can enjoy his golden years surrounded by love!Don’t let his age fool you — Valentino is quite the little soccer star! He absolutely loves playing with big balls, pushing them around with his nose and showing off his soccer skills! He’s still got plenty of playful energy and so much love to give.Valentino loves having his people nearby and would thrive in a home where someone is around often.He would be perfectly happy soaking up all the attention as an only dog, but he could also do well with a calm, submissive canine brother or sister.

Read more about Valentino

Valentino’s ideal home: No cats, please! Someone home often Only dog or a submissive canine companion A backyard and a big ball for his soccer games! A comfortable, loving home to call his ownValentino deserves a wonderful next chapter filled with love, companionship, and plenty of soccer games!Could you be his forever person? Applications can be filled out at www.piedmontanimalrescue.com/adopt! Petfinder and Adopt-A-Pet does NOT send us Applications. We receive many applications and many never respond after processing GREATLY delaying the pets forever home. Please only apply if you are serious about adopting. Please also make sure your pets are up to date on you species applicable Vaccines (rabies, Distemper/Parvo, FVRCP, Bordetella), spayed/neutered, and on Heartworm prevention if a canine. The adoption fee includes their age appropriate vaccinations(DA2PP and Bordetella), Dewormer, spay/neuter, microchip, heartworm test as well as the registration of their microchip information to you.The first step to adopting is to fill out an application for adoption. Once approved we will arrange a time for you to meet the animal you are interested in. If it is a match the adoption can then be completed and you can take home your new furry family member. If it is not a match we will file your approved application and you can wait till you find the perfect match.

  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
Adopt Valentino fromPiedmont Animal RescueMooresville, NC · listed Oct 24

5. Jasmine

Senior · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed · 99 mi from Johnson City

Meet Jasmine!Jasmine is a quiet, gentle senior girl with the sweetest soul. She came to PAR after being picked up as a stray by Animal Control, where it was discovered that she had injuries believed to be from an animal attack. She required surgery, but her wounds have healed and she is now ready to find a loving home of her own.Jasmine can be shy at first and needs a little time to feel comfortable, but as she begins to trust, her sweet personality starts to shine. She is more confident around women and can be a little more timid with men. She does well with other dogs and enjoys the simple things in life, especially soft blankets, comfy dog beds, and a warm spot to relax.One of Jasmine’s favorite things is spending time outside.

Read more about Jasmine

She loves slowly exploring the yard, sniffing all the interesting smells, and soaking up the sunshine on a beautiful day. A home with a fenced yard would be ideal for her so she can safely enjoy her outdoor time.Like many super seniors, Jasmine does have some medical needs, and she is still working on her house manners. Frequent bathroom breaks help her stay on track.After everything Jasmine has been through, she deserves a peaceful home where she can feel safe, loved, and spoiled. She may take a little time to give you her trust, but this gentle girl still has so much love to give. Applications can be filled out at www.piedmontanimalrescue.com/adopt! Petfinder and Adopt-A-Pet does NOT send us Applications. We receive many applications and many never respond after processing GREATLY delaying the pets forever home. Please only apply if you are serious about adopting. Please also make sure your pets are up to date on you species applicable Vaccines (rabies, Distemper/Parvo, FVRCP, Bordetella), spayed/neutered, and on Heartworm prevention if a canine. The adoption fee includes their age appropriate vaccinations(DA2PP and Bordetella), Dewormer, spay/neuter, microchip, heartworm test as well as the registration of their microchip information to you.

Adopt Jasmine fromPiedmont Animal RescueMooresville, NC · listed Sep 25

6. Jack

Senior · Male · Rat Terrier · 72 mi from Johnson City

This is a courtesy post. This animal is not at Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue. Please do not contact Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue regarding this animal. If you are interested in Jack, contact information is provided below.Meet Jack ❤️10-year-old Rat Terrier | 25 lbs. | Neutered | Up to date on vaccinationsThis is one of the hardest things our family has ever had to do.Jack has been a deeply loved member of our family since he was young. For years, he was Taylor’s constant companion while she lived four hours away from her family in Raleigh. It was just the two of them, and Jack took his job as her little sidekick very seriously.

Read more about Jack

He has always been incredibly loyal, loving and devoted to his person.Life has changed considerably since then. Taylor is now married, and Jack shares his home with another dog with whom he has never gotten along. The family also now has a toddler. Because of the history between the two dogs, they cannot safely be together in the home. For a long time, the family has managed this by rotating the dogs between home and boarding, sometimes for a month at a time. We have reached the heartbreaking realization that this simply isn’t a fair or sustainable life for either dog.Jack isn’t being rehomed because he isn’t loved. He’s being rehomed because he is. We want his remaining years to be spent in a peaceful home where he can relax, be someone’s companion, and get all the attention he deserves.About JackJack may be 10, but don’t tell him that! He still has plenty of energy and absolutely loves leash walks and car rides. When it’s time to slow down, he’s equally happy lying in the window watching cars, people and bicycles go by.And Jack is a wonderful cuddler. If you’re looking for a little dog who likes to crawl under the covers and snuggle up beside you, you’ve found him.He’s also an exceptionally smart boy. He knows basic commands and has developed some pretty funny ways of communicating with his humans. If you’re not giving him enough attention, he’ll reach out and tap you with his paw. Continue ignoring him and he may just tip over his food bowl to make his point! He also loves his squeaky toys.Jack is house-trained and will also use a potty pad. He does wonderfully when left home alone, does not need a crate and is not destructive. He does well at the vet and, other than some skin allergies, is in great health.Thunderstorms are another story. Jack is afraid of storms, and when one rolls through, he wants to be right beside his person. ❤️Jack and Other AnimalsJack currently attends doggy daycare and runs with other dogs successfully, so we believe he could potentially live with another compatible dog. Because of the history with the other dog in his current home, however, a meet-and-greet would be essential. Jack may be happiest as the only dog or possibly with another compatible small dog.He has lived around cats in the past, but it has been many years, so we cannot say with certainty how he would do with a cat today.ChildrenJack has lived in a home with a young child and has not shown aggression toward him. Most of the time, he simply ignores him. Because the family has been very cautious and has limited Jack’s interactions with an excited toddler, we don’t feel we have enough experience to recommend him for a home with very young children.We think Jack’s ideal home would be an adult home or one with older, dog-savvy children.A Few Important Things to KnowJack must be leashed or in a securely fenced area whenever he’s outside. If he gets loose, he will run—and he thinks being chased is a wonderful game! He has given his family a few scares over the years, so his new family will need to take this seriously.Jack also becomes very excited/reactive when he sees bicycles, so he should always be securely leashed around cyclists.We also want to be completely transparent about one past incident. Jack once slipped out the door and chased a delivery driver back toward her truck, where he nipped her

Adopt Jack fromHeart of the Foothills Animal RescueRutherfordton, NC · listed Sep 17Courtesy listing: Jack's family is rehoming him through this rescue.

7. Pepper

Senior · Female · Anatolian Shepherd (medium coat) · 98 mi from Johnson City

This sweet girl needs our help. Her owner is devastated but has no other option but to find her a new home.

Her name is Pepper and she is about 9 years old and weighs 35 pounds. Her breed is called a Middle Eastern village dog. Her owner rescued her from an agency that goes overseas and rescues dogs in Pakistan and Kuwait ,she is actually from Kuwait.

As you can see from her pictures she knows how to smile and have a good time. She is a little leary of men especially if they have sunglasses or a hat on. She is great with children and loves most other dogs, we would have to do a meet and greet before foster or adoption.

Read more about Pepper

We don't know what her life was like before her owner got her and it is understandable that she is scared of gunshots and fireworks. All this is handled with some love and special hugs from everyone that cares for her.

If you can foster or want to adopt please fill out an application from our website at
surryanimalrescue.org

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Pepper fromSurry Animal RescueMount Airy, NC · listed Sep 11

8. Reggie

Senior · Male · Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie / Mixed · 99 mi from Johnson City

Meet Reginald, Reggie for short! This handsome 12-year-old Yorkie mix is a little senior gentleman who has been through more than his fair share, but he hasn’t let that stop him from loving life.Reggie was found as a stray and came into foster care needing some extra TLC. He suffers from a severe skin allergy that caused him to lose most of the hair on his back. Our vet believes the hair will likely never grow back, but Reggie doesn’t seem to mind one bit. He proudly rocks his unique look, and honestly, we think it makes him even more special.Despite his age, Reggie is still surprisingly active and enjoys being part of the action.

Read more about Reggie

He does have severe arthritis in both his back legs and shoulders, so he needs a home that understands his limitations and is willing to accommodate them. Stairs are a big no-no because when his arthritis flares up, we worry he could fall. Luckily, Reggie has decided this simply means he gets to be carried around like the little prince he is.Reggie also has a collapsed trachea, which means his windpipe is weakened and can narrow, sometimes causing coughing or breathing difficulties. This is a condition that can be managed with proper care, and his future family will need to be mindful of his breathing, avoid pressure on his neck, and follow any veterinary recommendations.And what Reggie really wants most? His people. He absolutely loves being with his humans and soaking up every ounce of love and attention he can get. If you’re looking for a sweet little shadow who will happily keep you company and remind you that senior dogs have so much love left to give, Reggie may be your guy.Reggie does well with other small dogs around his size, preferably 12 lbs or smaller. Larger dogs make him very nervous and intimidated, so he would do best with smaller canine companions or as your one-and-only little prince. Applications can be filled out at www.piedmontanimalrescue.com/adopt! Petfinder and Adopt-A-Pet does NOT send us Applications. We receive many applications and many never respond after processing GREATLY delaying the pets forever home. Please only apply if you are serious about adopting. Please also make sure your pets are up to date on you species applicable Vaccines (rabies, Distemper/Parvo, FVRCP, Bordetella), spayed/neutered, and on Heartworm prevention if a canine. The adoption fee includes their age appropriate vaccinations(DA2PP and Bordetella), Dewormer, spay/neuter, microchip, heartworm test as well as the registration of their microchip information to you.The first step to adopting is to fill out an application for adoption. Once approved we will arrange a time for you to meet the animal you are interested in. If it is a match the adoption can then be completed and you can take home your new furry family member. If it is not a match we will file your approved application and you can wait till you find the perfect match.

  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Reggie fromPiedmont Animal RescueMooresville, NC · listed Sep 11

9. Gretchen

Senior · Female · Terrier / Mixed · 60 mi from Johnson City

Attention: This is a courtesy posting only! This pet is NOT available through Mountain Pet Rescue. Please do NOT contact MPR for information about the pet or apply to adopt this pet on the MPR website. Contact at nudge8@gmail.com or 704-674-7678 for more information or to adopt the pet.Gretchen is a big, lazy love. She is a mature 9-year-old girl who is looking for a home to enjoy her senior years. She enjoys car rides, naps, scratches, easy walks and snacks. Sadly, Gretchen's owner passed away, and she is looking for a new heart to steal. She is house-trained, has good manners and gets along well with cats.

Read more about Gretchen

She loves being a watch dog and your security system but is also very sweet and gentle. She would thrive as an only dog. We will pay $200 to the vet of your choice to go towards her next vet appointment.Contact me today at nudge8@gmail.com or 704-674-7678 to meet or learn more about Gretchen

  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Gretchen fromMountain Pet Rescue AshevilleCandler, NC · listed Jun 24

10. Domino

Senior · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 60 mi from Johnson City

Attention: This is a courtesy posting only! This pet is NOT available through Mountain Pet Rescue. Please do NOT contact MPR for information about the pet or apply to adopt this pet on the MPR website. Email pvedra7@gmail.com or call/text 310.948.7737 for more information or to adopt the pet.Meet DominoDomino isn't looking for his forever home. He's looking for his retirement home. And he just might be the easiest roommate you'll ever have.At 12 years old, he's traded zoomies for snoozes and is mostly interested in the simpler things in life: a good walk, a car ride, a sunny spot on the floor and his favorite people nearby.

Read more about Domino

He's not needy. He's not anxious. He's not demanding. He simply likes being part of whatever you're doing. Working from home? He'll nap nearby. Running an errand? He'd love to come along.Domino is sweet, intuitive and remarkably steady. He notices when something has shifted. Packing for a trip? He's paying attention. Having a hard day? Feel free to cry on his shoulder. There's something grounding about him that people tend to feel pretty quickly.He's house-trained, non-destructive, great with other dog, and happiest in a home where life moves at a comfortable pace. Like any senior dog, he comes with a few age-related quirks (and a few loud snores at night!), and he takes a couple of inexpensive medications to keep him feeling his best. He used to be an excellent watchdog, but these days his hearing is fading, so he's more "slept through the doorbell" than "guarding the house." He is up to date on his rabies vaccine, but after consultation with our vet, we decided to suspend distemper/parvo vaccines.Domino's ideal home is one where he gets to be someone's sidekick. He doesn't need constant activity or endless entertainment—just a person (or two) who enjoys having a loyal companion nearby. Another dog (or 2 or 3!) would be a welcome bonus, a sunny spot for naps is appreciated, and a daily walk is plenty. A home without young children would be the best fit.What Domino offers is simple: companionship, loyalty and an easy presence. The kind of dog who doesn't ask for much, but somehow becomes part of everything.If you're interested in learning more about Domino, please email: pvedra7@gmail.com or call/text 310.948.7737

  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Domino fromMountain Pet Rescue AshevilleCandler, NC · listed Jun 6

Adopting a senior dog in Johnson City

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 Johnson City

Questions about adopting senior dogs in Johnson City

How many senior dogs are up for adoption in Johnson City?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Johnson City, Tennessee, have 16 senior dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a senior dog in Johnson City?

The rescues with the most senior dogs near Johnson City right now are Piedmont Animal Rescue (Mooresville, NC), Mountain Pet Rescue Asheville (Candler, NC) and Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue (Rutherfordton, NC). 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.