Dogs may be man’s best friend, but some furry companions take it a step further by sticking around for the long haul. If you’ve ever wondered which dog breeds seem to sip from the fountain of youth, you’re in for a treat. From petite pooches to larger-than-life canines, these top 17 dog breeds defy age and stay spry well into their golden years.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas may be tiny, but their personalities and lifespans are mighty. According to Purina, Chihuahuas usually live to the age of 12–18, but several have been known to reach the age of 20. They also require minimal grooming, and their small size means they can adapt to many living situations.
Dachshund
Dachshunds, also known as sausage dogs, are well-known for their long bodies and relatively tiny legs. They usually live for around 12 to 16 years, but they have also been known to live into their 20s on rare occasions.
Australian Cattle Dog
If you’re looking for a slightly larger breed that still boasts an impressive lifespan, an Australian Cattle Dog might be the best pick for you. According to Britannica, they usually live for 12 to 16 years but can live even longer if you’re lucky. These intelligent dogs need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy.
Toy Poodle
Like Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles are little dogs that can live a surprisingly long time. When treated with the proper care, they can live into their mid to late teens. These dogs are popular for their adorable appearance, but their curly coats do require regular grooming to keep them looking and feeling their best.
Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are famous for their energetic, fearless, and friendly personalities. But did you know they can also live impressively long lives? With the right care, these tiny terriers can live well into their late teens. However, it is important that they receive regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Shih Tzu
With beautiful fluffy coats and adorable personalities, it’s hard to resist the charm of a Shih Tzu. If you like the idea of having one of these cute little canines in your life for years to come, you’re in luck. Shih Tzus usually live to around 10–18 years old with the right care.
Maltese
Maltese are tiny dogs with huge personalities. While they do need a fair amount of care and attention when it comes to grooming and dental care, we think they’re well worth it. In the right conditions, Maltese can live well into their late teens.
Beagle
Beagles are famous for their friendly, curious personalities, which make them perfect family pets. They’ll also give you lots of love and affection for many years to come, as they typically live to around 12–15 years old.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is an adorable little dog with an impressively long and luxurious coat. They usually live between 12 and 15 years, but have been known to live even longer under good conditions. They are most likely to thrive when given regular exercise and grooming to maintain their long coats.
Pomeranian
Pomeranians may be small in size, but their large personalities more than make up for it. They are known for being friendly, feisty, and playful, and their long coats add to their adorable charm. With proper care, these little pooches can easily live from 12 to 16 years.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers are known for their bold, adventurous spirits and lovely silky coats. According to 24Petwatch, Yorkshire Terriers have a life expectancy of about 12 to 15 years. However, they do require regular grooming and health monitoring to keep them at their healthiest.
Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are famous for their unique beards and eyebrows, which give them adorably expressive faces that match their curious personalities. These charming little dogs typically live for 12 to 15 years.
Cocker Spaniel
If you’re looking for a gentle, affectionate pup who will be with you for many years, a Cocker Spaniel may make the perfect companion for you. These dogs are typically expected to live from 12 to 15 years and love mental and physical exercise.
Border Collie
Here’s another great option for those of you who prefer larger breeds. Border Collies are inquisitive, intelligent dogs who learn quickly and are always eager to please. With the right care, Collies can live up to 15 years old, or even longer in some cases.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a classic breed with a loving, affectionate nature and a beautiful, long coat. They typically live from 9 to 14 years, making them a good option for anyone looking for a long-term canine companion.
Bichon Frisé
A Bichon Frisé is a charming little dog with a distinctive white fluffy coat and an adorable personality to match. While they do require a good amount of grooming and dental care, if you’re willing to put in the work, they can live to an impressive 12 to 15 years old.
Rat Terrier
As their name suggests, Rat Terriers were originally bred for hunting and pest control. But nowadays, they make curious and affectionate little companions for dog owners all over the world. With the right care, they can live up to 12–18 years old.
