When it comes to how long a dog lives, several factors come into play—especially genetics.
However, choosing a breed known for longevity can significantly increase your chances of enjoying many happy years with your dog.
That said, breed alone isn’t everything. Regardless of size or genetics, every dog benefits from:
a high-quality diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and consistent veterinary care.
In this guide, we’ll walk through 20 of the longest-living dog breeds—and what you can do to help maximize your dog’s lifespan. 
How Long Do Dogs Typically Live?
When comparing lifespans across breeds, size matters.
- Smaller dogs often live 16 years or longer
- Medium to large dogs average 10 to 13 years
- Giant breeds rarely exceed 8 to 10 years
Fortunately, pet owners have a major influence on their dog’s health and longevity.
Providing proper preventative care is key, including:
- routine wellness exams
- vaccinations
- parasite prevention
- dental cleanings
And just as important—seeking veterinary attention early when something feels off.
Tip: Preventative Care Is Everything
Just like with humans, consistency is what makes the difference.
A balanced lifestyle and regular checkups can significantly extend your dog’s life.
01. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is widely recognized as one of the longest-living dog breeds.
Many live beyond 15 years, and it’s not unusual for some to reach 18 to 20 years.
Even though they’re tiny, they still require regular exercise, mental stimulation, and proper training to stay healthy.
Breed Overview
Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 5–8 inches
Weight: Up to 6 pounds
Temperament: Loyal, alert, lively
Energy Level: High
Coat: Smooth or long; wide range of colors
Life Span: 12–20 years
02. Dachshund
It’s quite common to see a Dachshund living well past 15 years.
One famous Dachshund, Chanel, even set a record by living to 21 years.
However, this breed is prone to age-related issues, especially back problems, which can worsen with obesity.
Breed Overview
Group: Hound (AKC)
Height: 5–9 inches
Weight: Up to 32 pounds
Temperament: Devoted, lively, clever
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Short, wire, or long-haired
Life Span: 12–16 years
03. Toy Poodle
The Toy Poodle is known for its intelligence and lively personality.
They make excellent family companions but require both physical and mental stimulation.
It’s not uncommon for them to live between 16 and 18 years.
Breed Overview
Group: Non-Sporting (AKC)
Height: Up to 10 inches
Weight: 4–6 pounds
Temperament: Confident, loyal, intelligent
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Curly and dense
Life Span: 10–18 years
04. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is another long-living small breed, often reaching 16 years or more.
A well-known example is Willie, who lived to 20.
Originally bred for work, they remain energetic and driven throughout their lives.
Breed Overview
Group: Terrier (AKC)
Height: 13–14 inches
Weight: 13–17 pounds
Temperament: Intelligent, fearless, playful
Energy Level: High
Life Span: 13–18 years
05. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a friendly, adaptable breed that was originally developed purely for companionship. Because of this, they thrive in close human relationships and enjoy being part of daily family life.
Most Shih Tzus live to at least 14 years, and many go beyond that with proper care. Their exercise needs are relatively modest, usually satisfied with short daily walks and indoor play.
One thing owners should pay attention to is their long, luxurious coat. It requires regular brushing to prevent tangles, or consistent grooming if kept short. Additionally, due to their flat facial structure (brachycephalic features), they can be prone to breathing difficulties and overheating, especially in warm climates.
Breed Overview
Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 9–11 inches
Weight: 9–16 pounds
Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, playful
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Long, double coat in various colors
Life Span: 10–16 years
06. Maltese dog
The Maltese dog is a small but remarkably resilient breed, often living around 15 years or longer. Known for their affectionate nature, Maltese dogs form strong bonds with their owners and thrive on companionship.
However, because of this attachment, they may develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Early training and gradual independence-building are key.
Dental health is another critical area. Like many small breeds, Maltese dogs are prone to dental disease, so regular brushing and professional cleanings are essential for maintaining overall health.
Breed Overview
Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 7–9 inches
Weight: Up to 7 pounds
Temperament: Affectionate, alert, fearless
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Long, silky white coat
Life Span: 12–15 years
07. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, often called the Yorkie, is a popular toy breed known for its intelligence and bold personality.
While they are deeply loyal and affectionate with their families, they also retain classic terrier traits—such as being vocal and protective. They may act much bigger than their small size suggests.
With proper care, including routine veterinary visits and dental maintenance, Yorkies commonly live between 13 and 15 years, sometimes even longer.
Breed Overview
Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 7–8 inches
Weight: Around 7 pounds
Temperament: Affectionate, bright, playful
Energy Level: High
Coat: Silky coat in black and gold or similar variations
Life Span: 13–16 years
08. Pomeranian dog
The Pomeranian dog is a small dog with a big personality. These fluffy companions are known for being lively, confident, and extremely loyal to their families.
Some Pomeranians even take on the role of a miniature watchdog, staying alert to their surroundings.
With consistent training and proper care, they can live between 14 and 16 years. However, owners should be aware of common health concerns such as heart disease, collapsing trachea, joint issues (like luxating patella), and dental problems.
Breed Overview
Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 6–7 inches
Weight: 3–7 pounds
Temperament: Bold, alert, lively
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Thick, fluffy double coat
Life Span: 12–16 years
09. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu stands out as a medium-sized breed with an impressively long lifespan, often reaching 14 to 16 years.
These dogs are known for their independence and strong-willed nature, which means they may not be the easiest breed for first-time owners. However, they are also clean, quiet, and deeply loyal.
With proper preventative care, they are generally healthy, though some individuals may be prone to allergies.
They are also famous for their unique vocalization, often referred to as the “Shiba scream.”
Breed Overview
Group: Non-Sporting (AKC)
Height: 14–17 inches
Weight: 17–23 pounds
Temperament: Alert, independent, affectionate
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Thick double coat
Life Span: 13–16 years
10. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is well-known for its exceptional longevity among medium-sized breeds.
One of the most famous examples is Bluey, who lived an incredible 29 years—making it one of the longest-lived dogs ever recorded.
These dogs are highly intelligent and energetic, with a strong working drive. They thrive in active households and enjoy tasks such as herding, training, and dog sports.
However, they may develop certain genetic conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy and hip dysplasia.
Breed Overview
Group: Herding (AKC)
Height: 17–20 inches
Weight: 30–50 pounds
Temperament: Loyal, active, intelligent
Energy Level: High
Coat: Short double coat
Life Span: 12–16 years
11. Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is a lively, intelligent, and affectionate breed that makes a wonderful companion for families. These dogs are known for their spirited personalities and strong bonds with their owners.
On average, they live between 12 and 15 years. While they can be a bit stubborn at times, consistent training and early socialization help shape them into well-behaved pets.
Miniature Schnauzers enjoy a mix of activities—whether it’s playing with children, patrolling the backyard, or simply relaxing with their family. One thing to keep in mind is their grooming needs. Their wiry coat requires regular brushing and professional trimming to keep it looking its best.
Breed Overview
Group: Terrier (AKC)
Height: 12–14 inches
Weight: 11–20 pounds
Temperament: Friendly, lively, alert
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Wiry medium-length coat in black, black and silver, or salt and pepper
Life Span: 12–15 years
12. Beagle
The Beagle was originally bred to hunt in packs, which explains its social and friendly nature. These dogs typically get along very well with children, other dogs, and even cat-friendly households.
Beagles can live up to 15 years, especially when given proper care and attention. However, they are energetic dogs that need regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Without enough activity, they may become bored, which can lead to excessive barking or destructive behaviors. Keeping them engaged with playtime, walks, and interaction is key to their happiness and longevity.
Breed Overview
Group: Hound (AKC)
Height: 13–15 inches
Weight: 20–30 pounds
Temperament: Active, companionable, curious
Energy Level: High
Coat: Smooth, short coat in various tricolor combinations
Life Span: 10–15 years
13. Bichon Frise
With their round faces and cheerful expressions, the Bichon Frise is hard to resist. These dogs are known for their happy, affectionate personalities and their love of human interaction.
They are typically very social and enjoy meeting new people, making them excellent companion animals. One of their standout features is their curly coat, which is often considered hypoallergenic and sheds very little—ideal for people with allergies.
Bichon Frises are also quite resilient and intelligent, often living up to 15 years when properly cared for.
Breed Overview
Group: Non-Sporting (AKC)
Height: 9.5–11.5 inches
Weight: 12–18 pounds
Temperament: Affectionate, friendly, playful
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Long, curly coat in white, apricot, or cream
Life Span: 14–15 years
14. Papillon dog
The Papillon dog gets its name from the French word for “butterfly,” inspired by its distinctive wing-shaped ears.
Despite their small size, Papillons have big personalities. They are extremely devoted to their families, highly affectionate, and eager to please.
They are also known for their intelligence and curiosity, which makes them highly trainable. Many Papillons excel in agility training and enjoy learning tricks.
Surprisingly, their long silky coat is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional brushing and trimming.
Breed Overview
Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 8–11 inches
Weight: 5–10 pounds
Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, alert
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Silky coat in various colors with white
Life Span: 14–16 years
15. Whippet
The Whippet is best known for its speed, originally bred for racing. However, off the track, these dogs are calm, gentle, and affectionate.
Whippets make excellent family pets because they tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and even cat-friendly homes.
Although they enjoy relaxing, they still require regular exercise and opportunities to run. With proper care, they can live up to 15 years, making them one of the longer-living medium-sized breeds.
Breed Overview
Group: Hound (AKC)
Height: 18–22 inches
Weight: 25–40 pounds
Temperament: Friendly, quiet, gentle
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Smooth, short coat in a variety of colors
Life Span: 12–15 years
16. Miniature Pinscher
Often referred to as the “Min Pin,” the Miniature Pinscher is a fearless and energetic toy breed with a surprisingly bold personality.
These dogs are known for their lively nature, distinctive prancing gait, and strong protective instincts toward their home and family.
They can live up to 16 years and are deeply affectionate with their owners. However, they may not always tolerate overly rough play from young children, so supervision is important.
Breed Overview
Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 10–12.5 inches
Weight: 8–10 pounds
Temperament: Active, playful, intelligent
Energy Level: High
Coat: Smooth, short coat in black and tan, brown, or rust tones
Life Span: 12–16 years
17. Australian Shepherd
Also known as the Aussie, the Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized breed with a highly energetic and intelligent nature.
These dogs are extremely loyal and thrive when they have a job to do. Whether it’s herding, training, or participating in dog sports, they excel when mentally and physically engaged.
With proper care, they can live up to 15 years, making them one of the longer-living active breeds.
Breed Overview
Group: Herding (AKC)
Height: 18–23 inches
Weight: 40–65 pounds
Temperament: Intelligent, energetic, loyal
Energy Level: High
Coat: Medium double coat in various merle or solid colors
Life Span: 12–15 years
18. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small but sturdy breed that originated in Tibet. It is known for its long, silky coat and distinctive appearance.
These dogs are independent yet affectionate with their families. They are considered hardy and adaptable, often living between 12 and 15 years.
Their coat requires regular grooming to maintain its health and appearance.
Breed Overview
Group: Non-Sporting (AKC)
Height: 10–11 inches
Weight: 12–18 pounds
Temperament: Alert, affectionate, intelligent
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Long, silky coat in a variety of colors
Life Span: 12–15 years
19. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a gentle, affectionate breed that thrives on companionship.
They typically live up to 14 years and are especially well-suited for families or individuals who can spend a lot of time with them, as they do not enjoy being left alone.
Because of their calm and adaptable nature, they are also a great choice for seniors.
Breed Overview
Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 12–13 inches
Weight: 13–18 pounds
Temperament: Playful, affectionate, patient
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Long, silky coat with feathering
Life Span: 12–14 years
20. Chinese Crested Dog
The Chinese Crested Dog is a unique and eye-catching breed that comes in both hairless and fully coated (powderpuff) varieties.
These dogs are cheerful, affectionate, and highly social, making them excellent companion animals.
As one of the longest-living dog breeds, they can live up to 18 years with proper care.
Breed Overview
Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 11–13 inches
Weight: 8–12 pounds
Temperament: Intelligent, social, affectionate
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Hairless or soft coated
Life Span: 13–18 years
Final Thoughts: How to Extend Your Dog’s Life
Choosing the right breed is only the beginning.
The real key to longevity lies in everyday care.
Veterinary guidance—such as from the American Veterinary Medical Association—emphasizes:
- proper nutrition
- vaccinations
- parasite prevention
- regular health screenings
- dental care
Ultimately, preventative care is one of the most powerful ways to extend your dog’s life.
Because at the end of the day,
it’s not just about adding years to your dog’s life—
but adding life to those years. 🐾
