18 Longest Living Dog Breeds
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A dog’s lifespan is usually between 10 and 13 years, but some breeds live much longer. Long-living dog breeds are typically smaller in size and have been bred for the purpose of longevity.
The reasons that influence why some dog breeds tend to live longer lives can vary. However, they usually include things like size, breed, lifestyle, and care quality.
We researched 18 dog breeds that live the longest in this article, so keep reading to learn more about these dog breeds.
1. Australian Shepherd
Average Lifespan : 15 Years
The Australian Shepherd is a highly intelligent and energetic breed of dog that has been used for herding livestock since the 1800s. Aussies are incredibly loyal and devoted to their owners and make excellent family pets. They require plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy, and daily walks or runs as well as trips to the dog park or beach are recommended.
Aussies also need mental stimulation in order to thrive, and activities such as agility training or playing fetch can help keep them entertained. With proper care and attention, the average lifespan of an Australian Shepherd is 15 years.
2. Golden Retriever
Average Lifespan : 12 Years
Golden Retrievers are one of the most beloved breeds of dogs due to their friendly and devoted nature. They are intelligent, loyal, and eager to please, making them a great companion for families.
They are also known for being very healthy as a breed, with few genetic health issues that can affect them. Golden Retrievers have an average lifespan of 12 years, giving them plenty of time to bond with their owners.
3. Beagle
Average Lifespan : 12 Years
Beagles are intelligent and active dogs who need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Beagles are very loyal companions who will follow their owners everywhere they go and make great family pets as they get along well with children and other animals.
Beagles are known to be quite vocal, so it’s important to train them early on not to bark excessively. With proper care, beagles can live up to 12 years or more.
4. Border Collie
Average Lifespan : 15 Years
Border collies are one of the most intelligent and energetic dog breeds. Border collies are hard workers who can be trained to do almost anything.
They are devoted companions who thrive on human interaction and enjoy being active. They are well-known for their agility, obedience, and herding abilities, and they make excellent family pets.
5. Labrador Retriever
Average Lifespan : 12 Years
The Labrador retriever is a popular breed of dog known for its friendly and outgoing personality. They are highly intelligent and make great family pets, as they are eager to please their owners.
Labradors have a thick coat that can come in black, yellow, or chocolate colors. They are also known for their strong swimming abilities, making them excellent companions for outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing.
6. Chihuahua
Average Lifespan : 15 Years
Chihuahuas are known for being very loyal and loving companions. They make great pets for people who don’t have a lot of space in their home or apartment, as they don’t require much exercise or grooming. They also get along well with children and other animals, making them an ideal family pet.
Despite their small size, Chihuahuas can be quite brave and protective when it comes to defending their owners from danger. All in all, Chihuahuas are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a loyal companion that will stick by them for many years to come.
7. Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Average Lifespan : 13 Years
The Cardigan Welsh corgi is a beloved breed of dog that has been around for centuries. These dogs are known for their intelligence and loyalty, as well as their friendly and affectionate nature.
This breed makes great family pets, as they get along well with children and other animals. Cardigan Welsh corgis are also relatively healthy, with an average life expectancy of 13 years.
8. Daschund
Average Lifespan : 12–16 Years
Dachshunds are a popular breed of dog known for their long, low-slung bodies and short legs. This is a relatively long life span for a small breed of dog, making them an ideal choice for those looking for a long-term companion.
They are loyal, loving companions that can bring joy to any home. According to the American Kennel Club, Dachshunds typically live between 12 and 16 years.
9. Lhaso Apso
Average Lifespan : 15 Years
The Lhasa Apso is a small, long-haired breed of dog that originated in Tibet. This breed is known to be suspicious of strangers, so they make great indoor watch dogs as they will alert their owners to any potential intruders.
They are known for their alertness and loyalty, making them excellent watchdogs. The oldest Lhasa apso on record lived an impressive 29 years before passing away in 1939.
10. Bearded Collie
Average Lifespan : 12–14 Years
The bearded collie is a sturdy and charismatic breed of dog that has been around for centuries. They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and good-natured personalities.
The American Kennel Club describes them as having a “sturdy” build and generally living until the age of 12 to 14 years old.
11. Maltese
Average Lifespan : 12–15 Years
The Maltese is a small, white-coated breed of dog that has been popular for centuries. They are known for their long, silky coats and friendly personalities.
Females of this breed tend to live one year longer than their male counterparts, with an average lifespan of 15 years. This is due to the fact that they suffer from a few serious genetic diseases, making them a great choice for those looking for a healthy and long-lived companion.
12. English Springer Spaniel
Average Lifespan : 12–14 Years
The English Springer Spaniel is a popular breed of dog that is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and friendly nature. They are an active breed that loves to be outdoors and enjoys activities such as running, swimming, and playing fetch.
They are also very obedient and eager to please their owners, making them a good family pet.
13. Cockapoo
Average Lifespan : 10–14 Years
The Cockapoo is a hybrid breed that is created by crossing a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. This breed of dog has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its friendly, outgoing personality and its low-shedding coat.
They are also known for being easy to train and making great family pets. The cockapoo is an intelligent, loyal companion who loves to be around people and other animals.
14. Shih Tzu
Average Lifespan : 15 Years
The Shih Tzu is a small, lively breed of dog that has been popular for centuries. They are known for their long, flowing coats and friendly personalities. They are also very intelligent, and they can learn tricks quickly.
Shih Tzus are often referred to as “lap dogs” due to their tendency to want to be close to their owners.
15. Toy Poodle
Average Lifespan : 16 Years
Toy poodles are the smallest of the poodle breeds, and they are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and affection. This makes them a great choice for those looking for a family companion.
They have a long life expectancy compared to other dog breeds, with an average lifespan of 16 years.
16. Jack Russell Terrier
Average Lifespan : 16 Years
The Jack Russell Terrier is a small, energetic breed of dog that is well known for its high level of energy. This breed was originally bred to hunt foxes and other small animals, so they have an instinctive drive to be active and alert.
They are very intelligent and can learn quickly, making them great companions for those who want an active pet.
17. Whippet
Average Lifespan : 13 Years
Whippets are a breed of dog that is known for its affectionate and playful nature. Whippets have short coats that come in a variety of colors, including black, white, fawn, and brindle.
They have long legs and slender frames that make them well suited to running and agility activities. They are a medium-sized breed, with an average life expectancy of 13 years.
18. Miniature Schnauzer
Average Lifespan : 12 Years
Miniature Schnauzers are a popular breed of small dog that has been around for centuries. Miniature schnauzers have a unique look with their wiry coats and bushy beards and eyebrows. They come in three colors: salt and pepper, black and silver, and solid black.
They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and obedience, making them an ideal companion for families or individuals.
Final Thoughts
Dogs who have regular veterinary checkups and preventive care live longer lives than those who do not. Providing your pup with nutritious food rich in essential vitamins and minerals will keep them healthy and strong for many years. Any breed of dog can live a long and happy life with the right amount of love and attention!
