Want a furry friend to share your life with for as long as possible? Certain dog breeds are known for their impressive longevity, offering the potential for many years of companionship. Discover nine breeds that defy the average canine lifespan, boasting remarkable resilience and often outliving their shorter-lived counterparts. From petite companions to robust working dogs, this list explores breeds with exceptional lifespans, giving you insights into the breeds that might just be your long-term best friend.
Dogs hold a special place in our hearts, offering unconditional love and companionship. We often wish they could stay with us forever. While we can’t make time stand still, some dog breeds are known for their exceptionally long lifespans, giving us many more years of joy and memories.
How long a dog lives depends on its size and breed. Smaller dogs tend to live the longest, with lifespans of 14-16 years, while medium-sized dogs often reach 10-12 years. Larger breeds usually have shorter lives, between 7-10 years. While it’s hard to think about, considering a dog’s lifespan is an important part of choosing the right companion.
Here, we’ve highlighted 9 dog breeds with exceptional lifespans. Be sure to find one that matches your lifestyle and personality, so you can enjoy every moment with your new best friend.
Dog Breeds With Exceptional Lifespans
1. Pomeranian
| Personality | Lively, inquisitive, bold |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Height | 6-7 inches |
| Weight | 3-7 pounds |
| Life Expectancy | 12-16 years |
Pomeranians are small, fluffy dogs that can live up to 16 years when properly cared for, which is above average for most breeds. They have thick, double coats that require regular brushing to keep them looking their best.
As one of the few small spitz breeds, Pomeranians are distantly related to larger breeds like German Shepherds and Huskies, making them a great choice for those who love spitz breeds but prefer a smaller companion.
Known for their extroverted personalities and bold attitudes, Pomeranians are intelligent and full of life. With a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine care, they are relatively healthy and can enjoy long, happy lives. Their compact size and lively nature also make them suitable for apartment living, as long as they get enough exercise to burn off their energy.
2. Shih Tzu
| Personality | Affectionate, playful, outgoing |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Height | 9-10.5 inches |
| Weight | 9-16 pounds |
| Life Expectancy | 10-18 years |
Shih Tzus are known for their long lifespan, typically living between 10 to 18 years. However, due to the breed’s popularity, some may come from irresponsible breeding practices, which can lead to health issues like eye and back problems. Even those that live a long life may experience health concerns in their senior years.
Their name means “lion” in Chinese, and this affectionate breed has been cherished for centuries, with references as far back as 624 CE. Shih Tzus are loving and great with children, making them ideal family pets.
Their big, expressive eyes add to their cuteness but require daily cleaning to prevent health issues. These small dogs are well-suited for apartment living and love to cuddle. Their luxurious coat can be kept long or trimmed short, depending on your grooming preference.
3. Jack Russell Terrier
| Personality | Alert, lively, inquisitive |
| Energy Level | Needs Lots of Activity |
| Height | 10-12 inches |
| Weight | 9-15 pounds |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years |
Jack Russell Terriers are true terriers, known for their high energy and strong prey drive, often chasing anything that moves. Their lively nature means they need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Despite their energetic personalities, these dogs often live long lives, reaching 14 years or more, especially with proper care. They aren’t prone to many health problems, making them relatively easy to care for, though training can be a bit challenging due to their stubbornness.
These small dogs are bold, outgoing, and full of personality. Bred in England nearly 200 years ago to hunt foxes, they are quick runners and love to dig. Their strong need for outdoor activity makes them better suited for homes with plenty of space, as they might find apartment living a bit too confining. Parson Russell Terriers thrive in environments where they can burn off their endless energy.
4. Toy Poodle
| Personality | Active, proud, very smart |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Height | 10 inches & under |
| Weight | 4-6 pounds |
| Life Expectancy | 10-18 years |
Toy Poodles are known for their impressive lifespan, often living up to 16 years or more, with some even reaching 18 years. As the smallest of the Poodle varieties, they share the same intelligence, athleticism, and energy as their larger counterparts, all packed into a petite frame. Toy Poodles don’t shed much, making them a great option for people with allergies, but they do require regular grooming to keep their coats in good shape.
While they are prone to some orthopedic issues, Toy Poodles are generally healthy and long-lived. However, their high intelligence and energy mean they need plenty of mental and physical stimulation.
They also require proper socialization to prevent fearfulness and may not be the best fit for families with very young children, as they can be a bit sensitive to rough handling. Despite these considerations, Toy Poodles make wonderful companions for those who can meet their needs.
5. Miniature Schnauzer
| Personality | Friendly, smart, obedient |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Height | 12-14 inches |
| Weight | 11-20 pounds |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 years |
Miniature Schnauzers are often recognized for their long lifespan, typically living between 12 to 15 years, though some can live even longer with proper care, including a healthy diet, exercise, and a loving environment. They age gracefully, often not showing signs of getting older until later in life.
These little dogs are known for their distinctive mustaches and eyebrows, giving them a unique look that people tend to either love or find quirky. Despite their appearance, they are low-shedding and relatively easy to maintain.
Miniature Schnauzers are courageous, alert, and playful, making them great companions for families with well-behaved children. They are obedient, quick learners, and form strong bonds with their human families. Adaptable by nature, they thrive in both city apartments with regular walks or in the countryside with plenty of space to explore.
6. Beagle
| Personality | Friendly, curious, merry |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Height | 13 inches & under, 13-15 inches |
| Weight | under 20 pounds (13 inches & under), 20-30 pounds (13-15 inches) |
| Life Expectancy | 10-15 years |
Beagles typically live between 10 to 15 years, though many can exceed that with proper care. Their small size and active nature contribute to their longer lifespan compared to larger breeds. To ensure they live long, healthy lives, it’s important to keep up with their exercise and nutritional needs. While they often age gracefully, some Beagles may develop health issues like congestive heart failure in their later years.
These curious, intelligent dogs are known for their keen sense of smell and their love of food, so it’s important to monitor their diet to avoid overfeeding, which can lead to weight-related issues.
Beagles are social and friendly, making them excellent companions for families, children, and other dogs. Originally bred to hunt rabbits, they still need plenty of exercise, even though they have a laid-back demeanor. With proper care, Beagles can bring joy and entertainment to any home.
7. Dachshund
| Personality | Friendly, curious, spunky |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Height | 8-9 inches (standard), 5-6 inches (miniature) |
| Weight | 16-32 pounds (standard), 11 pounds & under (miniature) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-16 years |
Dachshunds are known for their relatively long lifespan, often living well into their teens, though the exact lifespan can vary depending on their lineage. Despite their popularity, these dogs are prone to intervertebral disc disease due to their long back and short legs, which can lead to back issues as they age. While some may experience more severe problems, proper care and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the risk.
Dachshunds are spunky, playful, and come in three coat types: smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired. Originally bred in Germany over 600 years ago to hunt badgers, their name even means “badger dog.” Though they can be a bit stubborn, their lively and fun personalities make them wonderful companions. Keeping them active and fit is essential to support their unique build and ensure they enjoy a long, healthy life.
8. Lhasa Apso
| Personality | Confident, smart, comical |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Height | 10-11 inches (male), slightly smaller (female) |
| Weight | 12-18 pounds |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 years |
Lhasa Apsos are a small breed known for their long lifespan, typically living between 12 to 15 years, with some even reaching up to 20 years.
They have long, flowing coats that require regular grooming, so many owners opt to keep their fur trimmed short for easier maintenance. Originally bred as guard dogs in Tibetan monasteries, Lhasa Apsos are naturally alert and independent.
Despite their watchdog instincts, Lhasa Apsos are loyal and affectionate with their families. While they can be cautious around strangers, they are playful and loving when around those they trust, making them wonderful companions for the right home.
9. Australian Cattle Dog
| Personality | Alert, curious, pleasant |
| Energy Level | Needs Lots of Activity |
| Height | 18-20 inches (male), 17-19 inches (female) |
| Weight | 35-50 pounds |
| Life Expectancy | 12-16 years |
Australian Cattle Dogs are known for having one of the longest lifespans among dog breeds, often living up to 16 years or more. Despite their medium size, these dogs have an exceptional life expectancy due to their strong, healthy lineage.
Bred primarily for work, not appearance, they are highly energetic and intelligent, thriving when they have tasks to keep them busy. Their robust health contributes to their long lives, though they may still develop conditions like progressive retinal atrophy or hip dysplasia as they age.
Australian Cattle Dogs are happiest when they’re outdoors, working, or engaged in activities like herding or agility courses. To keep them mentally and physically stimulated, regular exercise and challenges are essential, as their intelligence can lead to boredom if left without enough to do.
Conclusion
Certain dog breeds with exceptional lifespans offer dog owners the joy of many years with their furry companions. Small dog breeds are often among the longest-lived, with an average lifespan that exceeds larger breeds. Breeds like sausage dogs (Dachshunds) and the smallest dog breeds like Toy Poodles can live well into their teens.
These generally healthy dogs thrive with proper care, including a nutritious dog food diet, regular veterinary check-ups, and plenty of mental stimulation to keep their curious and energetic nature satisfied.
These affectionate and adorable breeds are known for their friendly demeanor and can make excellent companions for families. With the right care, including attention to both physical and mental well-being, many of these healthy dogs enjoy the longest life span possible, bringing love and joy to their owners for years to come.
Choosing a dog breed involves many factors, and lifespan is a crucial consideration for potential owners. While no breed guarantees a specific number of years, these nine breeds, known for their longevity, offer a higher probability of enjoying a long, fulfilling companionship. From the tiny Chihuahua to the sturdy Australian Cattle Dog, these breeds demonstrate that size isn’t the sole determinant of a long life. Ultimately, proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups remain essential for maximizing any dog’s lifespan, regardless of breed.