Dogs are known as man’s best friend, and naturally, we want our furry companions to stay with us for as long as possible. While a dog’s lifespan can be influenced by its breed, proper care and attention are equally important in ensuring a long and healthy life. In this article, we’ll highlight 19 dog breeds that are known for their longevity and good health, so you can enjoy many happy years together.
Chihuahua
A Chihuahua is likely to live between 12 and 18 years. For example, Purina writes, “Many Chihuahuas live to see their 18th birthday, and some of them even get to the age of 20. Although their impressive longevity doesn’t mean they won’t develop health issues, owners can look forward to many years spent together with their loyal companion.”
Pomeranian
PetPom tells us, “The Pomeranian will live between 12 and 16 years, though some will live even longer.” They are very active, playful dogs that are known for their fluffy coats, which is what makes them much-loved pets. They’re known for having dental issues due to their small mouths.
Bichon Frisé
According to PetPlan, a Bichon Frisé can live for over 15 years. People often choose to purchase a Bichon Frisé because of their white, fluffy coats and playful nature. While they need regular grooming and can suffer from dental issues, they’re a great breed for anyone with allergies, as they have hypoallergenic coats.
Yorkshire Terrier
A Yorkshire Terrier typically lives 13–16 years, which is longer than most dog breeds. With proper care, they can reach ages much higher than this. Yorkshire Terriers also require minimum exercise, making them a perfect breed if you live in an apartment.
Toy Poodle
If you purchase a Toy Poodle, then be prepared for it to last 10–18 years. If your Poodle has barely any health issues, then there’s even a chance it can live for 20 years. Common health concerns include luxating patellas and dental issues. They also have a hypoallergenic coat but require regular grooming.
Dachshund
Also known as “weiner dogs,” you can expect this breed of dog to live anywhere from 12 to 16 years. To ensure they live long and healthy lives, you’ll need to take extra care with their diets to avoid obesity, which can be a common health issue with Dachshunds. Their long backs can also make them prone to spinal issues.
Australian Shepherd
An Australian Shepherd will generally live between 13 and 15 years, even though they’re a larger breed, which is known for having shorter lifespans. They can be prone to issues such as cataracts and hip dysplasia. Australian Shepherds are known for being highly intelligent dogs, and they need lots of mental stimulation as pets.
Beagle
If you purchase a Beagle, you can expect to have it in your life for 12–15 years. They’re friendly and curious dogs who have a good temper and are highly sociable. They’re a breed that requires lots of exercise to avoid weight gain issues.
Shih Tzu
With good health, Shih Tzus can live anywhere from 10 to 16 years. In the right living conditions, this breed of dog can thrive and live a very long and healthy life. There are health issues you should look out for with Shih Tzus, such as eye problems and breathing difficulties.
Miniature Schnauzer
A Miniature Schnauzer is likely to live between 12 and 15 years. The breed is known for its distinctive eyebrows and beard. They’re pets you’ll need to look after if you want them to live a long life, as they can suffer from obesity issues and diabetes.
Maltese
Another small breed of dog with a long lifespan, the Maltese can live for 12–15 years. They require regular grooming as they have long and silky coats. It’s recommended that they’re groomed daily. It’s common for a Maltese to suffer from health concerns such as luxating patellas and heart issues.
Afghan Hound
An Afghan Hound is likely to live between 12 and 14 years with a healthy life. They have long, fine coats that require daily grooming. An Afghan Hound is a loyal and dignified dog and makes an excellent companion, even if it comes across as a little aloof.
Whippet
Whippets can live anywhere from 12 to 15 years. Along with their long life expectancy, Whippets are also known for their speed and agility. They require a healthy diet due to their lean frames, but it will also help them live a longer life. They’re affectionate and playful, which makes them great family pets.
Jack Russell Terrier
ManyPets writes, “The average lifespan for a Jack Russell is around 13–16 years, which isn’t too shabby for a purebred dog. With proper care, they can live even longer.” This breed of dog is known for its high energy levels and intelligence. They also need lots of mental and physical stimulation.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
This breed of dog is likely to live between 12 and 15 years. They’re affectionate and playful dogs, but they’re also prone to genetic ailments such as progressive retinal atrophy and spinal disk disease. Cardigan Welsh Corgis require regular exercise to ensure they stay fit and healthy.
Lhasa Apso
These dogs can live anywhere from 12 to 14 years. They’re well known for being independent breeds and watching over their owners. They have a long coat, which will require daily grooming, so it’s best not to get this breed if you can’t commit to that. A Lhasa Apso may also suffer from genetic health issues.
Shiba Inu
A Shiba Inu is expected to live between 12 and 15 years. Owners love them for their fox-like appearance, but they’re also known to have an independent nature, which means they need consistent training as puppies. They’re a generally healthy breed, but they still require regular checkups.
Border Collie
PetMD tells us, “The average Border Collie lifespan is 12–15 years, and they are considered a healthy breed. But, like all dogs, they can develop certain health issues throughout their life.” They’re highly intelligent and need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. Border Collies can also be prone to issues such as hip dysplasia.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can live anywhere between 9 and 14 years. They’re loved by their owners for their affectionate nature, but they’re prone to health issues, such as mitral valve disease. It’s important to ensure they have regular health checkups. This breed also requires moderate amounts of exercise to stay healthy.