When you find your perfect pup, you also find a faithful companion you want with you for many years. Of course, no one can predict how long their pet will be with them, but everyone hopes for it to be a long time. Knowing which dogs have the longest lifespans might influence your decision when you decide to adopt a pup.
Some dogs live longer than others, with certain breeds known for having especially long lifespans. Genetics, size, nutrition, exercise, and proper veterinary care all play a role.
So, which dog breeds tend to live the longest? And what can dog owners do to help their pets enjoy a long and healthy life?
What Dog Breed Lives the Longest?
The Chihuahua is one of the best-known long-lived dog breeds. The American Kennel Club claims Chihuahuas have an average lifespan of about 14 to 16 years. Some individual dogs live even longer.
Chihuahuas are the smallest breed recognized by the American Kennel Club, but they have big personalities. They can be energetic, alert, playful, and very attached to their families. Their small size also means they do not need as much food or exercise as many larger breeds.
The Chihuahua is not guaranteed to live longer than every other dog, though. Every dog is different. A Chihuahua with poor health may have a shorter life than a well-cared-for dog of another breed. Still, when looking at average lifespans, Chihuahuas are near the top of the list.
However, even though these little pups are the most well-known dogs to live many years, there are quite a few others. Moreover, some of them even sport longer life expectancies.
10 More Dog Breeds With Long Lifespans
Chihuahuas are not the only dogs known for living a long time. Several other small and medium-sized breeds can reach their mid-teens.
Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a small, fluffy dog from Madagascar that typically lives around 15 to 19 years. These friendly dogs are known for their soft, cotton-like coats and cheerful personalities.
Chinese Crested
These small, interesting pups have an unusual appearance and playful personalities, and they typically live around 15 to 17 years. They build strong bonds with their owners.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies typically live about 12 to 15 years. These pups may be small, but they are active and confident dogs.
Pomeranian
These tiny, fluffy dogs usually live around 14 to 16 years. They are energetic and often enjoy being involved in whatever their families are doing.
Papillon
Papillons are small, spunky dogs easily recognizable thanks to their large, perky ears. They typically live around 14 to 16 years and are smart, playful, and eager to learn.
Shiba Inu
This small- to medium-sized dog from Japan typically lives for 13 to 16 years. Shiba Inus have a fox-like appearance, plenty of energy, and are loyal to their families.
Australian Cattle Dog
This lively breed lives an average of 12 to 16 years. Australian Cattle Dogs thrive when they have ample opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation.
Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles are another breed that can live a long time. Poodles of all three sizes have life expectancies ranging from about 10 to 18 years, depending on the variety and individual dog.
Dachshund
Dachshunds are best-known for their adorable, long bodies and short legs. They generally live around 13 to 15 years, although some have lived much longer.
Terriers
Several terrier breeds also have long lifespans. Smooth and Wire Fox Terriers, for example, average about 13 to 15 years.
Keep in mind that these numbers are averages, not promises. Some dogs may live less than the expected range, while others may surprise their families by reaching well beyond it.
Dogs With Record-Breaking Lifespans
One dog has made history by living far beyond the normal lifespan of most dogs. That dog was Bluey, an Australian Cattle Dog from Australia.
Bluey lived from June 7, 1910, until November 14, 1939. She reached the age of 29 years and 5 months. Bluey lived near the rural town of Rochester in Victoria, Australia. She spent much of her life working with cattle and sheep. Guinness World Records has recognized Bluey as the oldest dog ever reliably recorded.
At one point, another dog named Bobi was dubbed the oldest dog ever. Bobi, a Rafeiro do Alentejo from Portugal, was reported to have lived to 31 years old.
However, Guinness World Records reviewed the claim after Bobi died in 2023, later announcing there wasn’t enough evidence to confirm his age. Consequently, Bobi is no longer the record holder.
There have also been other unusually old dogs. For example, Chihuahua and Chihuahua-mix dogs have held several recent records for oldest living dog. These examples fit a larger pattern: small dogs are often among the longest-lived dogs.
Why Do Small Breeds Live Longer?
One of the biggest clues to a dog's lifespan is its size. In general, small dogs live longer than large dogs. The American Kennel Club reports that small breeds often live around 10 to 15 years, with some reaching 18 years.
Large breed dogs generally live about 8 to 12 years, while giant breeds may average only 8 to 10 years. Scientists are still studying exactly why size has such a strong connection to lifespan.
One important factor may be the way dogs grow. Large and giant breeds grow very quickly during puppyhood. Their bodies also experience more stress as they age.
Small dogs, on the other hand, grow to their adult size more slowly and generally put less physical strain on their bodies. Their hearts, joints, and other organs do not have to support as much body weight.
Genetics figures into the picture, too, because certain breeds are more apt to develop specific health problems. On the contrary, other dogs possess traits that help them stay healthy for longer. However, even within one breed, genetics can vary from one dog to another.
How Can You Help Your Dog Live a Longer Life?
Choosing a long-lived breed is only one piece of the puzzle. The care a dog receives throughout its life also makes a big difference.
Feed a balanced diet. Dogs need food that provides the right amount of nutrients for their age, size, and activity level. Too many treats or too much food can lead to unhealthy weight gain.
Keep your dog active. Regular exercise helps dogs maintain healthy muscles and joints. Talk to your vet about how much exercise is best for your pup. A short walk may be perfect for one dog, while another may need more time to run and play.
Visit the veterinarian. One of the most critical things to do for your dog is to keep up with vet visits. Vaccinations, dental care, parasite prevention, and other routine treatments can also help dogs stay healthy.
Watch your dog's weight. Carrying around extra weight puts more stress on a dog's joints and body. A healthy weight makes everyday activities easier and may decrease the risk for certain health problems.
Provide your dog with mental stimulation. It takes more than physical exercise for dogs to be at the top of their game. Training, games, puzzles, licking mats, interactive toys, and quality time with their families help keep their minds active.
Pay attention to changes. Dogs can’t tell you when something hurts. Changes in eating, drinking, sleeping, walking, or behavior may be signs that something is wrong. Check with a veterinarian when something seems unusual.
A Long Life Is About More Than Age
It’s easy to focus on the number of years a dog lives, especially when you hear amazing stories about dogs reaching 20 or even 29 years old. But a long life is only part of the goal. What matters just as much is helping a dog stay comfortable, active, and happy throughout those years.
Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, Toy Poodles, Dachshunds, and other small breeds can give their families many years of companionship. Still, no breed comes with a guarantee, and a dog's genes, health, lifestyle, and care all work together.
However, for most dogs, the best approach is simple. Provide good food, regular exercise, proper veterinary care, and plenty of love. Those everyday choices can help give your dog the best chance at a long, healthy life.
Learn more about how you can take the very best care of your pup by exploring more of the Neater Pets blog.