The average lifespan of a dog is around 10-13 years. Generally, smaller breeds tend to live longer than giant breeds, and can live up to even 16 years or more. The reason smaller dogs live longer is that bigger breeds age quicker and grow up faster.
If you want to have the longest relationship possible with your dog, which I’m sure you do, ensure they are getting enough exercise, a high-quality diet, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Here are the top 10 longest-living dog breeds.
10. Beagle
The beagle is an amazing breed to have with kids as they are gentle, loving and smart dogs. They have a lifespan of around 10-15 years but the longest living one was known to be 27 years old! This is an old dog breed too. Did you know, the famous comic book dog, Snoopy, was a beagle? He is a perfect representation of one too.
9. Australian Cattle Dog
This dog has a longer lifespan than other dogs it’s size. The expected lifespan is around 12-15 years old. The Guinness World Record of the oldest living dog is actually an Australian Cattle Dog called Bluey. This dog lived for 29 years and 5 months! These are excellent working dogs and are perfect for families or owners with quite an active lifestyle.
8. Lhasa Apso
Years ago, Lhasa Apso's were known as ancient watchdogs in Tibetan palaces and monasteries. Nowadays, this breed is loved everywhere as a cute family pet. They are great for families with kids as they have a calm, gentle nature. They have a lifespan of 12-14 years old.
7. Pomeranian
This fun little fluffy breed is a playful and lively breed. They have an average lifespan of 12-16 years, but they have lived longer. They can be very alert and aware of noises around them, causing them to bark if they hear a noise outside their house for example. They may try to take on the role as the boss of the house, but with consistent and good training, this can be changed.
6. Dachshund
In your life, you have most likely met an old dachshund that is around 10 years old. They have an average lifespan of 12-17 years, but the oldest living dachshund to date was 21 years old. The sausage dog is a playful, loyal pooch which is also great for families.
5. Yorkshire Terrier
This breed is very popular and also intelligent. They have a lifespan of 14-17 years and they make great family dogs. They are very loyal and affectionate, but they also have guard dog traits as they are very protective. These dogs are also TINY just the way they are, but you can also get ‘teacup’ sized Yorkies. An adult teacup yorkie weighs around 2-4 pounds on average.
4. Shih Tzu
These sweet and adorable dogs are friendly to everyone, so they will not make a good guard dog! They have a lifespan of 12-18 years with little to no health issues. Make sure they are groomed regularly and you shouldn’t have any issues. They require little playtime or exercise but still try to get daily amounts of each into your day.
3. Poodle
Another great family pet, the toy poodle has a lifespan of 14-18 years. Aswell as any poodle mixed breeds, they will also live a long life! These dogs are excellent to train and are highly intelligent. They are the longest living hypoallergenic dog in the world to date. They will require plenty of mental stimulation and daily exercise, but other than that, this is an amazing breed.
2. Jack Russell
A Jack Russell has a lifespan of 15-20 years, which is insanely long for a dog! This medium-sized pooch loves the outdoors and they are excellent with families and young kids. They have quite high energy levels so it's important to ensure they get enough outdoor and playtime for mental stimulation.
1. Chihuahua
The chihuahua is known as one of the longest living dog breeds in the world. They have a lifespan of 16-20 and they live a healthy life with barely any health diseases. They only require little exercise due to their tiny body size. The longest known living chihuahua was 20 years old. They are very devoted to their families and owners. They are full of spirit and very playful little doggies.
