What Dog Breeds Live the Longest? Here’s the Top 29 Longest Living Dog Breeds!
If you’re here, you’re asking yourself ‘what dog breeds live the longest?’
If you’re looking for a pup that will stay with you for the long haul, there are certain dog breeds that experts say tend to live longer than others.
Many of the smallest breeds have proven to be some of the longest living, with Toy Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, Dachshunds and Lhasa Apsos averaging up to 20 years each. That’s 140 human years!
On the other hand, larger dogs tend to have shorter lifespans of between 10 and 13 years. Some of these large breeds are outliers, as some dogs have been known to live well over 15 years!
As with humans, life expectancy in dogs depends on proper care, well-balanced nutrition, adequate exercise, and in a lot of cases, genes.
We’ve used average life expectancy ranges from leading experts for this article, arranging breeds in descending order from the high-end of each range.
Here’s a list of 29 longest living dog breeds.
Key takeaways
Small dog breeds generally live longer than large breeds.
Chihuahuas can live up to 17 years.
Dachshunds have a lifespan of 12-16 years.
Yorkshire Terriers can reach up to 16 years.
Poodles, particularly Toy Poodles, can live for about 15 years.
Shih Tzus average a lifespan of 10-16 years.
Maltese dogs also have a lifespan of 12-15 years.
Beagles can live between 10-15 years.
Pomeranians have a similar lifespan of 12-16 years.
Lhasa Apsos can reach up to 15 years.
The Australian Shepherd can live for 12-15 years.
Regular health checks and a balanced diet contribute to a dog’s longevity.
The Top 29 Longest Living Dog Breeds
1. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a graceful and dignified breed.
They can live up to 12-18 years on average, have an average size of 25-27 inches tall, and have an even temperament that is loyal, loving, and intelligent.
2. Toy Poodle
The average life expectancy of a Toy Poodle is 10 to 18 years.
They typically reach heights of under 10 inches and weighs around four to six pounds.
As far as temperament goes, Toy Poodles are known for being lively, intelligent, social and affectionate dogs.
3. Shih Tzu
The average life expectancy of a Shih Tzu is between 10 to 18 years, with a healthy weight ranging from 9 to 16 pounds.
Their temperament is known for being playful, affectionate and friendly, making them a popular companion dog.
4. Toy Manchester Terrier
The average life expectancy of a Toy Manchester Terrier is between 15 and 17 years.
They are small dogs with an adult weight of up to 12 pounds and a height up to 12 inches.
These dogs are typically friendly, smart, alert, loyal, and affectionate.
They can also be energetic and active so proper exercise and training should be provided early on.
5. Chihuahua
The average life expectancy of Chihuahuas is 14-16 years.
Chihuahuas come in a variety of sizes ranging from 5-8 inches and up to 4-6 pounds.
They are loyal and intelligent dogs known for having an energetic, bold personality, though some can be shy around strangers.
6. Pomeranian
The average life expectancy of a Pomeranian is 12 to 16 years.
They typically weigh between 6 to 7 pounds and have a friendly, outgoing temperament.
They are playful, loyal and adaptable dogs that make great companions.
7. Dachshund
The average life expectancy of a Dachshund is between 12-16 years.
Dachshunds typically come in two sizes – standard (16-32 pounds) and miniature (under 11 pounds).
As for temperament, they are known to be playful, friendly, energetic, and can make great family pets.
8. Scottish collie
The average lifespan of a Scottish collie is 12-16 years.
They typically weigh between 40-70 pounds and can reach heights of 19-24 inches at the withers.
They are loyal and intelligent, they are very protective and make good family dogs, they are also very active so will need plenty of physical and mental stimulation.
9. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is a medium-sized breed with an average lifespan of between 12 and 16 years.
These dogs are known for their alertness, loyalty, intelligence, and obedience.
They are active and independent breeds requiring frequent interaction and exercise to remain happy and balanced.
10. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small dog breed with a life expectancy of 14 to 15 years.
It weighs between 12-18 lbs and has a charming, lively personality that makes it an excellent companion animal.
It is a smart, playful, often stubborn dog that loves spending time with its human owners.
Furthermore, this breed is known for being friendly, affectionate, and peaceful when around other animals and people.
11. Papillion
The average life expectancy for a Papillion is 13-15 years.
They typically stand 8-11 inches tall and weigh 5-10 pounds.
Papillons are friendly and loyal dogs that love human companionship.
They are intelligent and playful, making them excellent companions for people of all ages.
12. Pug
The average life expectancy of a Pug is 13-15 years.
The size of Pugs ranges from 10-13 inches tall and typically weigh between 14-18lbs.
They are known for being friendly, loving, and curious.
13. West Highland White Terrier
West Highland White Terriers, commonly referred to as “Westies,” are small dogs with a life expectancy of 13-15 years.
They typically weigh 15-20 pounds and have a cheerful, playful temperament.
As loyal companions, they love being around their family and bring plenty of energy and goodwill to the table!
14. Cairn Terrier
The life expectancy of the Cairn Terrier is between 13-15 years.
They are small-sized dogs, typically weighing around 14 lbs.
They are active and playful dogs who are also known for their independent streak and mischievous personalities.
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15. Maltese
The average life expectancy of the Maltese is between 12 and 15 years.
They are a small breed that usually grows only to be 7-9 inches tall and weigh less than 7 pounds.
They have a mild temperament but can also have feisty personalities and can be quite playful.
16. Lhasa Apso
The average Lhasa Apso life expectancy is 12-15 years.
The size of a mature Lhasa Apso is around 10-11 inches with a weight of about 12-18 pounds.
As for temperament, the Lhasa Apso is an independent yet devoted companion and can make a great family pet as they are loyal, intelligent and friendly.
17. Cockapoo (portmanteau of cocker spaniel and poodle)
The average life expectancy of a Cockapoo is 12-15 years.
They typically weigh between 8-20 pounds and are usually 10-14 inches tall.
Cockapoos have a gentle, loving temperament and they make excellent family pets.
18. Miniature Schnauzer
The average life expectancy of a Miniature Schnauzer is between 12 to 15 years.
The Miniature Schnauzer typically stands between 12-14 inches tall and weighs between 11-20 pounds.
As far as temperament goes, Miniature Schnauzers are known for being obedient, smart and playful.
19. Australian Shepherd
The average life expectancy of an Australian Shepherd is between 12 to 15 years.
They typically are medium-sized dogs, measuring between 18-23 inches tall and weighing 40-55 lbs.
Generally, Australian Shepherds are intelligent, hard-working, and get along well with people and other animals.
20. Cardigan Welsh Corgi
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi has a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
They typically weigh between 25 and 38 pounds and stand about 10 to 13 inches high at the shoulder.
They are alert and loyal companion dogs and make great family pets.
21. New Guinea Singing Dog
The New Guinea Singing Dog (NGSD) is an ancient breed that originates from the highlands of New Guinea.
With a life expectancy of 12-15 years, they have a small size averaging 10-18 inches in height and usually weigh between 15 and 20 pounds.
NGSDs generally have a friendly temperament and make good companions for active households.
22. Fox Terrier
The Fox Terrier has a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
They are small to medium in size, weighing between 15-18 pounds.
Their temperament is active, spirited, and friendly with a strong prey drive.
23. Border Collie
The Border Collie is a medium-sized dog with a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.
They range in size from 18-22 inches and typically weigh between 30-50 pounds.
Generally, their temperament is energetic, intelligent, loyal, and willing to please.
24. Yorkie
The Yorkshire Terrier’s average life expectancy is 11-15 years. They can live longer with proper care and nutrition.
They typically range in size from 7 to 8 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh on average 7 pounds.
Yorkies are lively, energetic lap dogs with a confident and brave attitude.
They are intelligent and loyal pets who bond closely with their owners, making them excellent companion dogs.
25. Beagle
The average life expectancy of a Beagle is 10-15 years.
They have an average size of 13-15 inches and can weigh between 120-30 lb.
Beagles are usually very friendly, playful, loyal and intelligent dogs. They are also known for being curious and eager to please their owners.
26. Maltipoo (portmanteau of Maltese and Poodle)
The typical life expectancy of a Maltipoo is anywhere between 10-15 years.
Maltipoos typically range in size from 6-35 lbs and can generally earn an average of 15 inches in height.
As far as temperament, the Maltipoo breed is a loving, cuddly, loyal dog that is suitable for both inexperienced and experienced pet owners alike.
27. Jack Russell Terrier
The average life expectancy for a Jack Russell Terrier is 12-14 years.
They range in size from 10-12 inches tall and weigh between 9-15 pounds.
They are an energetic, loyal breed with an independent personality and a strong prey drive.
28. English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel has a life expectancy of 12-14 years.
They have a medium size frame and commonly weigh between 40 to 50 pounds and have an average height ranging from 19-20 inches.
Their temperament is friendly, loyal, energetic, and intelligent which make them great family pets.
29. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, also known as a Sheltie, is a popular herding dog that originated in Scotland.
Generally healthy, this breed has a life expectancy of 12-14 years.
They are small-medium sized dogs with an adult weight usually between 15-25pounds and stand around 13-16 inches tall.
They have playful and obedient personalities and make great family pets.
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Final Thoughts
Smaller dog breeds generally tend to have a longer lifespan compared to larger breeds, with some reaching up to 17 years of age. Factors such as breed, genetics, diet, and regular health check-ups all contribute to your furry friend’s longevity.
Ultimately, regardless of how long our pets may be with us, it’s the quality of life and the love we share with them that truly counts. Ensure you provide a healthy and happy environment for your dog, which will enrich both of your lives regardless of the breed.
