11 Dog Breeds with the Longest Life Expectancy

When it comes to adding a new pup to your family, you want one that will be around for a long time. Because size, breed, and lifestyle all have an impact on how long a dog lives, not all dog breeds will have the same lifespan. If you’re looking for a canine companion that will stick around for years to come, here are 21 of the longest-living dog breeds.

From small lap dogs like Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles to larger breeds like Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds, these pups can live anywhere from 10 to 15 years or even longer with proper care. Some of the longest-living breeds include Beagles, Border Collies, Dachshunds, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Maltese Terriers and Shih Tzus. These pups are known for their intelligence and loyalty—qualities that make them great companions for many years. With regular vet visits and plenty of exercise and love from their owners, these pooches can easily become lifelong friends.

How Long Do Dogs Live?

Depending on the breed, a dog’s typical lifespan can vary substantially. Small breeds can live into their late teens or even early twenties, with an Australian Cattle Dog named Bluey being the oldest registered dog ever at 29 years old! On the other hand, extra-large breeds with shorter lifespans include Great Danes and Newfoundlands.

The mystery as to why small dogs live longer than larger breeds persists, but one idea suggests that health issues in aging dogs are harder to manage in bigger animals, causing them to be euthanized earlier. Additionally, smaller breeds may have less stress on their bodies due to their size and therefore may be able to live longer. Regardless of size or breed, it is important for pet owners to provide proper nutrition and exercise for their furry friends in order to ensure they live a long and healthy life.

Longest-Living Dog Breeds

1. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are one of the longest-living dog breeds, with a life expectancy of 14-16 years. Originating in Mexico, they are the smallest breed of dog in the world and are known for their alertness and liveliness. Chihuahuas form strong bonds with their owners and can be quite sassy around strangers. Despite their small size, they are surprisingly hardy and generally healthy dogs.

The Chihuahua is an ideal companion for those looking for a loyal and loving pet. They require minimal exercise but still need regular walks to stay fit and healthy. With proper care, these little dogs can live long lives full of joy and companionship. They may be small but they have big personalities that will bring lots of love into your home!

2. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a small, affectionate breed of dog that has been popular for centuries. They have a life expectancy of 10-18 years and are known for their outgoing, gentle personalities. Shih Tzus love to play with their pet parents and have an upbeat attitude, but they also enjoy being lap dogs when it’s time to relax.

Though these dogs can live to reach 18 years old, they do have some health concerns due to their brachycephalic face shape. This includes breathing issues and the risk of overheating in hot weather. To help prevent these problems, owners should make sure their Shih Tzu gets plenty of exercise and stays cool in warm temperatures. Additionally, regular vet visits are important for monitoring any potential health issues that may arise throughout the dog’s life.

3. Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a small, but feisty breed of dog that has been popular for centuries. They have a life expectancy of 11-15 years and are known for their affectionate, bold, and curious nature. These tiny terriers are always ready for an adventure, though they can be stubborn and aren’t shy about raising their voice.

Yorkshire Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to some health problems such as patellar luxation and tracheal collapse. Patellar luxation is when the kneecap slips out of place due to weak ligaments or muscles in the leg. Tracheal collapse is when the windpipe collapses due to weakened cartilage rings in the trachea. It’s important to keep your Yorkshire Terrier healthy with regular vet visits and proper nutrition to help prevent these issues from occurring.

4. Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is a long-lived, alert, active, and intellectual dog breed that has gained popularity online. It can live up to 13–16 years. They are capable of independence and strongly held ideas, which they express by their well-known “Shiba scream,” a high-pitched sound that falls somewhere between a squeal and a cry.

Despite being generally healthy, Shibas, a type of small dog, can have allergies in the skin and ears as well as dental diseases. Therefore it is important to give them regular grooming and exercise to maintain a healthy coat and stay fit. They require regular grooming to keep their coats in good condition and need plenty of exercise to stay fit and healthy. As with any pet, it’s important to provide them with the right diet and plenty of love and attention to ensure they live a long and happy life.

5. Miniature Pinscher

The Miniature Pinscher, dubbed the “Min Pin” by its owners, is a spirited little pup. It is thought to have been bred by crossing Dachshunds and Italian Greyhounds according to the Miniature Pinscher Club of America. These little pups are believed to be created by crossing Dachshunds and Italian Greyhounds, according to the Miniature Pinscher Club of America. They have an average life expectancy of 12-16 years and make great companions for those looking for a loyal and loving pet.

Though they may look like small-scale Doberman Pinschers, Min Pins can be susceptible to certain health issues such as patellar luxation, hypothyroidism, progressive retinal atrophy, and heart defects. It is important that owners take their pup to regular vet checkups to ensure that any potential issues are caught early on. With proper care and attention, these little pups can live long and healthy lives full of love and adventure.

6. Dachshund

The Dachshund is a beloved breed of dog that has been around for centuries. With their long bodies and short legs, they are often referred to as “wiener dogs” due to their resemblance to a hotdog. Despite their small size, these dogs are surprisingly muscular and energetic, originally bred to be badger hunters. They have an average life expectancy of 12-16 years, making them a great companion for many years.

Overall, Dachshunds’ owners should be vigilant when it comes to their pet’s back health as they get older or if they develop IVDD. This condition can lead to pain and even paralysis if not addressed correctly. To help prevent this from happening, it is important for owners to provide plenty of exercise and support for the dog’s back while avoiding activities that could cause injury. Additionally, regular vet visits should be scheduled so any issues can be caught early on before they become more serious.

7. Maltese

The Maltese is a small, white, long-life dog that is considered “hypoallergenic” and has a life expectancy of 12-15 years. Their stylish coat requires diligent daily care to avoid knots, but the good news for pet parents is that Maltese are generally healthy, freeing up more time for grooming rather than dealing with medical issues.

Maltese dogs may experience certain health issues such as luxating patellas, where the kneecap slips out of place leading to lameness and pain in the leg, liver shunts, and heart defects. Liver shunts are when the blood flow from the liver is blocked or diverted away from it which can cause serious health problems if not treated properly. Heart defects can also be present in Maltese dogs which can lead to difficulty breathing and other complications. It’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of these conditions and take your pup to the vet if you suspect anything wrong.

8. Russell Terrier

The Russell Terrier is a lively, petite breed of dog that typically lives between 12-14 years. They are almost identical to the Parson Russell Terrier, but with shorter legs and a smaller frame. Despite their small size, these pups have an abundance of energy and enjoy being active. They make great companions for people who enjoy an active lifestyle, as they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy.

These long-living dogs can be prone to certain health issues such as patellar luxation and arthritis, but overall they tend to be quite healthy. It is important for owners to keep up with regular vet visits and provide their Russell Terriers with proper nutrition and exercise in order to maintain their health. With the right care, these loyal little dogs can bring lots of joy into your home for many years!

9. Beagle

Beagles are a popular breed of dog, known for their friendly and curious nature. They have an average life expectancy of 10-15 years, making them a great companion for many years. Beagles love to be outside, but it is important to keep them on a leash or in a fenced-in yard when taking them out for an adventure as they have a high prey drive from being bred for hunting.

It is important for Beagle owners to monitor their pet’s health, especially when it comes to ear infections. Regular vet visits and proper grooming can help keep ears clean and prevent any potential health problems. Additionally, providing your Beagle with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation will help keep them healthy and happy.

10. Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is a small, long-haired breed of dog that originated in Tibet. They are known for their distinctive long coats and friendly personalities. The average life expectancy of a Lhasa Apso is 12 to 15 years. These dogs were originally bred to be watchdogs at Tibetan monasteries and palaces, but today they make excellent lap dogs.

Lhasa Apsos have a beautiful long coat that drapes over their entire body to the floor, giving them an adorable mop-like appearance. They come in many colors including white, black, cream, gray and gold. Despite their cute looks, they can be quite independent and stubborn at times. Unfortunately, these dogs are prone to certain eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye and progressive retinal atrophy. Therefore it is important to take your Lhasa Apso for regular checkups with the vet in order to ensure their eyes remain healthy.

11. Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a small, fluffy breed of dog that has become increasingly popular in recent years. With their spunky personalities and adorable looks, it’s no wonder why they have become so beloved. They are known for being intelligent and eager to please, making them great companions for people of all ages.

Pomeranians typically have a lifespan of 12-16 years, however, they can be prone to certain ailments like hypoglycemia, tracheal collapse, dental issues, and ocular conditions. To ensure your pup stays healthy and happy throughout their lifetime, it’s important to provide them with regular vet checkups and proper nutrition. Additionally, investing in pet insurance can help cover any unexpected medical costs that may arise. With the right care and attention, your Pomeranian will be a loyal companion for many years to come!