Owning a dog is an amazing experience, but one of the most difficult parts of having a canine companion is knowing that you’ll have to say goodbye eventually. On average, dogs have a lifespan of ten to thirteen years.
Of course, exercise, high-quality healthcare, a healthy diet can all help your beloved pet have a long and happy life. However, genetics is ultimately one of the biggest factors in determining a dog’s lifespan.
Here we take a look at the top 20 dog breeds with the longest lifespans.
1. Dachshund
Dachshunds, commonly referred to as sausage dogs, are known to live longer than many other breeds. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, a dachshund was once the longest living dog in the world at 21 years.
In general, dachshunds live for around 15-17 years. Dachshunds are friendly and loyal animals, perfect as long-term companions! However, it should be noted that dachshunds are prone to age-related health issues, including back problems. Make sure you have regular check-ups for your Dachshund to help keep it healthy!
2. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are small, fluffy dogs named after their region of origin – Pomerania (between Poland and Germany). Pomeranians are friendly but feisty, and extremely loyal to their owners.
A Pomeranian will need some training, as they are playful and lively animals, but with lots of care and attention, they can live between 13 and 17 years.
3. Shih Tzu
The small, friendly Shih Tzu was bred specifically to be a companion. They commonly live for 15 years or more, and due to their small size, they need only short walks and little playtime episodes.
If you’re looking for a friendly companion, choose a Shih Tzu. They’re playful and love people, so make a great candidate for a companion to keep you entertained all day for years to come.
4. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas live longer than many other breed of dogs. These small, friendly animals tend to live for between 15 and 20 years. Due to their miniature size, Chihuahua’s don’t need much exercise but require plenty of engagement and stimulation.
Chihuahuas are not prone to serious illnesses, which may contribute to their longer than average lifespan. The oldest ever Chihuahua lived for 20 years, making it one of the longest living dog.
The fun-sized and fun-spirited Chihuahua is fiercely loyal, intelligent, and bold. Chihuahuas make a great choice for a family pet, and their long lifespan means you won’t have to say goodbye too soon.
5. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are feisty animals, with just as much energy and trainability as its larger relatives. They live for around 13-15 years, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the range of sports and activities these canines are known for competing.
6. Toy Poodle
Poodles are intelligent, friendly, and they are also one of the longest living breeds out there. Because of their small size, toy poodles, in particular, have longevity.
You can expect a toy poodle to live for around 15 to 20 years. Because they’re highly engaging and intelligent, toy poodles need a devoted owner who can offer them plenty of physical and mental exercise over the years.
7. Maltese
This is a breed known for excellent health and high levels of affection. This is another small dog breed that can live for more than 15 years. These are an ancient breed, originating from the island of Malta in the Mediterranean.
This breed of dog is so friendly and loyal that they can suffer separation anxiety when left alone. This is something that should be considered before committing to looking after this type of dog for 15 years or more; however, behavioral therapy can help.
8. Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apso is another ancient breed, originating from Tibet. Despite their small size, they were originally bred as watchdogs for monasteries and palaces in Tibet.
While today’s Lhasa Apso are rarely used for guard duty, their life expectancy of 12-14 years makes them a great, long-lasting family pet. They are friendly towards people that they know, but often wary of strangers. They are calm in nature, making them perfect for families with children.
9. Beagle
Beagles, known for their puppy eyes and long, floppy ears, have one of the longest life expectancies for canines. Beagles have long been considered a fantastic family pet, and the average beagle will live for between 12 and 18 years. The longest living Beagle recorded was named Butch and lived for an astounding 27 years.
As beagles age, they commonly suffer back problems. If you have a beagle as a pet, try to make sure they don’t overeat and get plenty of exercise to help prevent and beagle back issues.
