15 Dog Breeds That Live The Longest, According To The Data

We never want to say goodbye to our furry best friends. We wish they could stay with us forever! While immortality isn’t in the cards just yet (get on it, science!), there’s a way to maximize the time you have with your pup. By adopting a dog breed known for its long lifespan, you can enjoy years of love, cuddles, and tail wags. According to Canine Journal, these dog breeds are some of the longest-living, and they just might steal your heart with their adorable faces. Ready to meet your potential new best friend and plan for many happy years together? It may be hard to choose which breed is the absolute cutest!

Chihuahua

While Chihuahuas may be a smaller breed, they tend to have a big life. The average Chihuahua will live to be between 14 and 18 years old. If you are looking for a nice, small dog that is happy, good around kids, and fits into your tiny apartment, a Chihuahua may be the breed to choose! They are very adaptable and thrive in various living environments, so they will be just as happy living their long life in a city or a country setting.

Miniature Poodles

Have you ever seen such a cute, fluffy dog?! Miniature poodles are not only extremely adorable with their compact size and curly hair, but they will also live for quite a while. The average lifespan of a miniature poodle is about 14 to 17 years of age. Keep this dog thriving with plenty of activity and exercise, and they will have a long, healthy life. 

Dachshunds

Dachshunds are also lovingly known as “hot dog” dogs or “weiner dogs” due to their long, skinny bodies. If you fall in love with one of these little hot dogs, you are in luck! They tend to live to be about 12 to 16 years old and will be a big part of your life despite their small size. These pups are known for their larger-than-life personalities, which you will get to know well over the years. 

Yorkshire Terrier

While the Yorkshire Terrier may never grow bigger than about 7 pounds, they will make up for their small size with a nice, long life. This breed lives to be about 11 to 15 years old and they are actually the tenth most popular breed of dog in the United States. I guess people love these wiry haired and full of energy little pups! They are very affectionate dogs who bond quickly with their owners.

Whippets

Whippets have been used as racing dogs for decades. Unlike other breeds of racing dogs that do not live very long, Whippets can live to be almost 15 years old. With almost no body fat and a strong need for exercise, a Whippet will want to run often and exercise daily, but when taken care of, they will be part of your family for years and years! As long as they get to run, they are very low-maintenance dogs with calm, cool personalities.

Australian Cattle Dogs

The Australian Cattle Dog is one of the larger breeds of dogs on our list, coming in at around 50 pounds. While it has been proven that smaller dogs tend to have longer lives, this medium-sized pup can live to be up to 16 years old! They are a very healthy breed, and they have a unique look. Australian Cattle Dogs often have two different colored eyes and a blueish, brown coat. That is probably why they got the nickname “the blue heeler”! 

Pug

Everyone loves an adorable pug with their excessive amount of wrinkles and cute little nose. If you are a pug lover, then you are in luck! These small, stocky dogs can like to be between 13 and 15 years old. You will get pug cuddles for years and years if you choose to adopt this breed of dog. Their relaxed personality may inspire you to be less stressed in your day-to-day life, as well. It seems like a great approach to living a long life!

Pomeranian

Adopt a Pomeranian, and you will happily sweep up fluffy dog hair for about 16 years. These incredibly furry dogs are known for their long lifespan and desire to be in charge. These dogs may be small, but they can take on any other breed at the dog park thanks to their strong confidence. Make sure you train your Pom well so they act as nicely as they look. Sometimes the smallest dogs have the biggest bark!

Cocker Spaniel

Everyone loves a soft, calm Cocker Spaniel! While they may be a hunting dog by trade, the Cocker Spaniel also makes a wonderful family dog. They are calm, relaxed and very easy to train. Cocker Spaniels will love nothing more than learning tricks for treats than snuggling up on the couch. They live to be about 12 to 15 years old, so your kids can grow up with a fantastic pet. 

Shiba Inu

You may instantly be attracted to the Shiba Inu thanks to its short, soft fur and it’s almost fox-like look. Many people love this medium-sized dog that was originally bred as a hunting dog. While this breed may be very independent and hard to train, they will give you years and years of companionship. The Shiba Inu will live to be up to 16 years old. Take the time to train your Shiba from day one, and you will have a loyal, tough pup by your side for years to come.

Cockapoo

The Cockapoo is a fancy designer dog breed that is a mix of a Cocker Spaniel and a Standard Poodle. This combination of breeds was chosen to blend the best parts of each breed’s personality, making Cockapoos a happy, smart dog with a very long lifespan. If you adopt a Cockapoo, you can expect them to live up to 18 years old. That’s one very long life for a dog! 

Coton de Tulear

You may have yet to hear of this lesser-known breed of dog, but if you are looking for a pup that will live a long, happy life, this is the breed for you. The Coton de Tulear can live to be up to 19 years old! Their fluffy white fur and happy attitude will brighten your life for years and years. 

Norrbottenspets

Have you ever heard of Norrbottenspets? We haven’t either. But, according to Canine Journal, these pups can live to be up to 17 years old! Originating from Sweden, these small to medium-sized dogs are not only great with families but also highly trainable. They are pretty active and used to be used as hunting dogs. They are affectionate and loyal, so they will give you plenty of years of love!

Beagle

Who doesn’t love a playful little beagle? You better love these little pups if you choose to adopt one, as they will be around for quite a few years. Beagles are also known for their longevity, often enjoying a healthy life well into their teens. They are quite a fun breed, known for their friendly, curious nature and boundless energy. Their playful personality and adaptability make them a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a long-term, loyal and lively companion.

Maltese

A Maltese pup may just be your new best friend. These little fluffy dogs are wonderful for families thanks to their fun-loving nature. While they may only get up to 8 pounds, their big personality makes them seem much larger. Maltese dogs do need grooming to keep their coat beautiful and soft but, when you love and care for this pup, they may give you up to 15 years of happiness!

This article was inspired by Canine Journal.