Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Quiet Life at 78
Homemade oatmeal cookies, a soup-loving pig, and a parade of pets roaming a multimillion-dollar estate—this isn’t a storybook. It’s Arnold Schwarzenegger’s daily reality. Once the Terminator, Arnold has embraced a gentler role: devoted animal dad.
At 78, he has stepped away from the red carpet, exchanging it for the rustle of hooves and joyful squeals. Sharing his Mediterranean-style mansion with his partner, Heather Milligan, and a collection of beloved animals, Arnold now structures his days around oatmeal, routines, and unconditional love.
A Peek Inside Arnold’s Private Sanctuary
Nestled in Pacific Palisades, one of L.A.’s most exclusive neighborhoods, Arnold’s estate spans more than two and a half acres. It offers sweeping views of the ocean and surrounding canyons. Once a bustling family home, it now serves as a quiet retreat for Arnold, Heather, and their six pets, who roam freely between house and grounds.
The home doubles as a family hub. His five adult children—Katherine, Christina, Patrick, Christopher, and Joseph—visit often. The seven-bedroom estate easily accommodates shared meals, outdoor time, and casual gatherings. Despite his split from Maria Shriver in 2021, Arnold has maintained a cordial relationship, and the family remains close.

Arnold Schwarzenegger talks to his dog and donkey while using a tablet in a photo posted on July 30, 2021 | Source: Instagram/schwarzenegger
Life With His Four-Legged Family
Arnold’s pets are more than companions—they’re family. Miniature horse Whiskey, donkey Lulu, a discerning pig, and a loyal pack of dogs receive star treatment. Arnold shares homemade treats, prepares special meals, and even allows the animals to “inspect” his drinks.
He often documents these moments online, offering a rare glimpse into his private life. One snapshot shows Lulu leaning toward his drink with the caption, “Lulu wants me to share absolutely everything with her. Lockdown has spoiled her.” His son Patrick describes the scene as “a mix of Dr. Dolittle, a midlife crisis, and pure happiness.”
Even friends like Rob Lowe are charmed. “I love that Arnold has the mini horse and the pig,” Lowe said. “It’s inspiring.”
Routine, Care, and Oatmeal
Arnold’s days follow a rhythm built around his animals. He feeds them, prepares meals, and relaxes outdoors with pets nearby. Photos show him playing chess in the sun, lounging in a hot tub with his dog on guard, or cradling his pig while the dogs look on. These images capture a grounded, slower-paced life.
Homemade oatmeal cookies for the horses, special soups for the pig, and treats for the dogs punctuate his days. Through these small rituals, Arnold demonstrates that life’s greatest joys can be found in care, attention, and companionship.