How Long Do Dogs Live?
When it comes to the life span of dog breeds, it’s important to know that smaller dog breeds usually live longer than larger breeds, often reaching 16 years or more. On the other hand, the average lifespan of medium or large dogs is typically between 10 to 13 years, while giant breeds usually live for 8 to 10 years. However, selecting a dog from one of the dog breeds with long life span can enhance the chance of having your canine companion for a longer period of time .
However, your pet receiving the recommended preventative care can significantly impact the health and lifespan. This includes:
- Scheduling regular wellness exams
- Keeping up to date with vaccines
- Administering parasite preventatives
- Scheduling routine dental cleanings
- Promptly seeking veterinary care if you notice any concerning changes in your dog’s health.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are known for their small size, being the smallest dog breed and their exceptional longevity, often living well into their teenage years and sometimes reaching the remarkable ages of 18 to 20. Despite their small size, these dogs are highly energetic and needs regular exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training to thrive and remain call and well behaved.
Breed Characteristics
Group: Toy
Height: 5 to 8 inches
Weight: Up to 6 pounds
Energy Level: High
Coat And Color: Smooth or long coat that comes in various colors like black, tan, fawn, cream, white, blue, silver, chocolate, and red
Life Span: 12 to 20 years
Dachshund
Dachshunds are known for their long life expectancy, with some of these dogs living beyond 15 years. In fact, a dachshund named Chanel holds the Guinness World Record for the oldest living dachshund, passing away in 2009 at an impressive age of 21 years. However, it’s important to note that dachshunds, like many breeds, can experience age-related health issues, with back problems being particularly common. It’s essential for dachshund owners to be mindful of their pets’ weight, as obesity can exacerbate these issues.
Breed Characteristics
Group: Hounds
Height: 5 to 9 inches
Weight: Up to 32 pounds
Energy Level: Medium
Coat And Color: Short-wire or long-haired coat that can come in chocolate, tan, black, red, and more
Life Span: 12 to 16 years
Toy Poodle
This lively and clever poodle is an excellent choice for a family pet as they are considerably small and adaptable regardless of their sizes. These dogs are energetic so, it’s important to be aware of their high energy levels and the significant mental stimulation they require to do well. Toy poodles are known for their longevity, often living to be 16 to 18 years old, which makes them one of the breeds with the longest lifespan.
Breed Characteristics
Group: Non-Sporting
Height: Up to 10 inches
Weight: 4 to 6 pounds
Energy Level: Medium
Coat And Color: Curly coat that comes in white, apricot, black, brown, and more
Life Span: 10 to 18 years
Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell terrier is a small breed known for its long lifespan, with some individuals living up to 16 years old. In fact, the oldest recorded Jack Russell, named Willie, lived to be 20 years old, as verified by Guinness World Records in 2014. Originally, these breeds were bred for working, Jack Russells are known for their high energy level and strong work drive, traits that they won’t hesitate to showcase everyday.
Breed Characteristics
Group: Terrier
Height: 13 to 14 inches
Weight: 13 to 17 pounds
Energy Level: High
Coat And Color: Smooth or broken coat that comes white with black, brown, or tan markings
Life Span: 13 to 18 years
Shih Tzu
Known for their friendly and adaptable nature, Shih Tzus typically have a lifespan of 14 years or even more in some cases. Bred to be companions, these dogs thrive on human interaction and require short daily walks as well as regular playtime. Due to their long coats, daily brushing is necessary to prevent tangling and matting, unless they are regularly clipped. It’s important to be aware that they are flat faced dogs and their face structure can lead to health issues such as breathing problems and overheating, so it’s essential to monitor their well-being closely.
Breed Characteristics
Group: Toy
Height: 9 to 11 inches
Weight: 9 to 16 pounds
Energy Level: Medium
Coat And Color: Long double coat that varies from black, white, blue, silver, and more
Life Span: 10 to 16 years
Maltese
The Maltese breed is known for its exceptional health and long life span, which they often live up to around 15 years of age. These small dogs are highly social, and affectionate, but can develop separation anxiety if not properly trained and socialized. It’s important to pay special attention to their dental health, as Maltese dogs are prone to dental issues, similar to other small breeds.
Breed Characteristics
Group: Toy
Height: 7 to 9 inches
Weight: Up to 7 pounds
Energy Level: Medium
Coat And Color: Silky coat that comes in white
Life Span: 12 to 15 years
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire terriers are a well-liked and clever toy breed that has received a lot of medals in lots of dog competitions. Despite their small size, they are not solely lap dogs. While they are devoted and loving towards their families, they also exhibit typical terrier characteristics such as strong protective instincts and a tendency to be vocal. Given proper healthcare throughout their life, including annual teeth cleanings from a vet, it is not unusual for a Yorkshire Terrier to live 13 to 16years.
Breed Characteristics
Group: Toy
Height: 7 to 8 inches
Weight: 7 pounds
Energy Level: High
Coat And Color: Silky coat that comes in black and gold, black and tan, blue and gold, or blue and tan
Life Span: 13 to 16 years
Pomeranian
Pomeranians getting more popular and they are being recognized for their friendly and sometimes assertive nature. While these dogs can be a bit bossy, they are generally extremely loyal to their families and have a tendency to act as mini guard dogs. Despite their feistiness, with consistent training, they can transform into wonderful family pets, often living for 14 to 16 years. Although, this breed breed healthy doesn’t mean they can’t be prone to dime health issues like heart disease, collapsing trachea, luxating patellas (which are loose kneecaps that can impact mobility and frequently result in arthritis in later life), as well as dental disease.
Breed Characteristics
Group: Toy
Height: 6 to 7 inches
Weight: 3 to 7 pounds
Energy Level: Medium
Coat And Color: Fluffy double coat that appears in black, chocolate, orange, red, and more
Life Span: 14 to 16 years
Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu known for its impressive lifespan is a medium-sized breed that often living between 14 to 16 years. These dogs possess a strong-willed and aloof nature, making them ideal for experienced owners. Despite their independent personalities, this Japanese breed is recognized for its cleanliness, quietness, and unwavering loyalty. Typically, they enjoy good health as long as they receive proper preventative care, although some individuals may be susceptible to allergies. It’s important to note that these dogs are famous for their distinctive “Shiba scream,” which may not make them the ideal choice for those living in close quarters with neighbors.
Breed Characteristics
Group: Non-Sporting
Height: 14 to 17 inches
Weight: 17 to 23 pounds
Energy Level: Medium
Coat And Color: Thick double coat that comes in black and tan, cream, and red
Life Span: 13 to 16 years
Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian cattle dog, also referred to as the blue heeler, has a remarkable lifespan compared to other dogs of similar size, this particular breed from Australia typically has a lifespan of around 12 to 15 years, but they are prone to health issues such as progressive retinal atrophy and hip dysplasia. Known for their high intelligence and strong work ethic, these dogs do well in active households where they can engage in dog sports and mentally stimulating activities.
Breed Characteristics
Group: Herding
Height: 17 to 20 inches
Weight: 30 to 50 pounds
Energy Level: High
Coat And Color: Smooth double coat that mostly come in blue and red with black and tan markings
Life Span: 12 to 16 years
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