Riley - Yorkshire Terrier Dog for Adoption in Wilmington, Delaware

Please read the bio in full for answers to common questions. If you have a question not covered here, please email info@seniordoghaven.org. If interested in adopting, please complete an adoption application at https://seniordoghaven.org/adoption-process/. Because all of our dogs live in foster homes, meet-and-greets are scheduled only after a completed application is received. Adoptions must be within a reasonable distance of Wilmington, DE so our volunteers can conduct an in-person home visit.



Meet Riley

Riley is a 12-year-old, 16-pound Yorkie who came to us as a stray. Although his age is estimated by the shelter, Riley acts younger than his estimated age and still has plenty of personality. He is a sweet, moderately energetic boy who enjoys being near his people, playing with toys, giving kisses, and—above all—rolling around in the grass.

Riley has very curved front legs that cause him to move differently, as well as collapsing trachea. Because of his legs and trachea, he is not suited for long walks and can only manage a few stairs. A fenced yard is important for Riley, as he loves spending time outside and enjoys exploring and rolling in the grass. He is perfectly happy to spend most of his time relaxing in the house once he has had some outdoor time.

Riley appears to be housebroken. He will scratch at the gate or whine when he needs to go out, although his foster home has been taking him outside every few hours, so his ability to hold it for extended periods has not been fully tested. He is crate trained and sleeps in his crate in his foster parents’ bedroom.

Riley gets along with other dogs but would do best with calm canine companions. He does not enjoy being around high-energy dogs and may become uncomfortable if another dog gets too excited or bumps into him, particularly around food. His foster family separates him from the other dogs during meal preparation and feeding. Riley also has a high prey drive and should not live with cats or other small animals.

He enjoys children but would do best with older, dog-savvy children, around age 10 and up. Because he can be somewhat possessive of food and toys and has mobility limitations, young children would not be the best match for him.

Riley loves being with his people and can become upset when he knows someone is nearby but he cannot get to them. He may scratch or bark when separated from them, so he would do best in a home where someone is around much of the time. He is not currently a lap dog, but he likes to stay close to his people and is happy to keep them company.

When Riley first arrived in his foster home, he was impulsive and would rush through doors and try to grab food. He has made significant progress and is learning to better control those impulses. He is food-motivated, which has been helpful in teaching him appropriate boundaries.

Riley’s ideal home would be a calm, non-apartment home with adults or older children, a securely fenced yard, and someone who is home frequently. He would be happy as an only dog or with a calm canine companion. Most importantly, he is looking for a family who will appreciate his unique little personality and give him a comfortable home where he can enjoy his favorite things—being outside, rolling in the grass, playing with his toys, and staying close to his people.

The Yorkshire Terrier, also known as Yorkie, is a small and glamorous toy dog breed known for its long, flowing coat and spirited personality. Originating from England, these affectionate and intelligent dogs make wonderful companions for individuals and families alike. With a weight of around 7 pounds, Yorkies are portable and adaptable, thriving in both city apartments and rural settings. Despite their small size, they possess a bold and confident nature, always ready for fun and adventure.