Senior dogs near Chattanooga

Senior dogs for adoption in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Meet 6 adoptable senior dogs (age 7+) in and around Chattanooga. Each one is from a local shelter or rescue and ready to give an older dog's quiet, grateful love.

Senior dogs (age 7 and up) wait far longer for homes than puppies, even though they're usually house-trained, settled in temperament, and happy to nap at your feet. Adopting an older dog in and around Chattanooga, Tennessee means a grateful companion close to home — and often a shorter drive to meet them in person. Always confirm availability and adoption steps directly with the shelter or rescue.

Last updated July 12, 2026 at 9:30 AM EDT. Listings refresh automatically, usually every 12 hours.

Available senior dogs in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Senior confirmed
Missy Zelda (FL), adoptable senior Maltese in Chattanooga, TN

Missy Zelda (FL)

Maltese • ♀ Female • Small • 9 years

Adoption Fee: $300 Missy Zelda is available for adoption. She is 9 years old and weighs about 9 pounds. She is in Gainesville, Florida. --- Missy Zeld…

Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue • Chattanooga, TN

Senior confirmed
Simon (hospice care), adoptable senior Maltese in Chattanooga, TN

Simon (hospice care)

Maltese • ♂ Male • 7 years

Simon Simon is 7 years old and 10.6 pounds. He has hip dysplasia and severe luxating patellas. Also he has advanced dental disease and a mast cell tum…

Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue • Chattanooga, TN

10+ years
Bella Luna (NC), adoptable senior Maltese in Chattanooga, TN

Bella Luna (NC)

Maltese • ♀ Female • Small • 14 years

Adoption fee: $125.00Bella Luna is a female Maltese (mix?). She is 14 yrs old and weighs about 14 lbs. Her family was having trouble keeping up with h…

Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue • Chattanooga, TN

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Adopting a senior dog in Chattanooga — FAQ

What counts as a senior dog?

Most shelters and vets consider a dog "senior" around age 7, though large breeds often age sooner and small breeds a little later. Every dog listed here is 7 years or older.

How do I adopt a senior dog in Chattanooga?

Open any dog's profile to see the shelter or rescue caring for them near Chattanooga, Tennessee, then use the adoption link or contact details to apply directly with that organization. Lily's Second Chance simply gathers local senior dogs in one place so they're easier to find.

Are there always senior dogs available in Chattanooga?

Availability changes often as dogs are adopted and new ones are listed. If you don't see a senior dog in Chattanooga right now, check back soon or browse all of Tennessee — new dogs are added regularly.

How much does it cost to adopt a senior dog near Chattanooga?

Adoption fees vary by organization, but senior dogs are frequently discounted or sponsored because they wait the longest. Open a dog's profile or contact the shelter or rescue directly for their current fee and any covered vet care.

What should I expect when I bring a newly adopted senior dog home?

Most senior dogs have a brief adjustment period — a few days to a couple of weeks — as they settle into a new home. They're often shy at first, then relax once they feel safe. A calm routine, a comfortable place to rest, and patience make the transition easier for both of you.

Know a senior dog near Chattanooga who needs a home?

Shelters and rescues can list adoptable senior dogs for free.