When a dog becomes family, we never want to say goodbye. And that, precisely, is the reason so many people want to have small dog breeds with a long life expectancy. Who wouldn’t want to have a little companion that stays with them, not just through seasons but through chapters of our lives?
They may have a weight of only a few pounds, but these dogs carry years of love in their tiny bodies… and they have years of life in them as well. Some of these pups live for 15, even 20 years. They grow old beside you. Quietly. Through birthdays, hard days, and Sunday mornings.
So, if you are looking for a furry friend who will walk with you through life for as long as possible, these are the little legends you should know.
Small Dog Breeds With Long Lifespans
Read about these seven tiny dog breeds we have compiled, and feel wonderful about choosing one of these toy buddies with long lives.
1. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are living proof that size does NOT define strength. They are truly an embodiment of “I will stick around as long as you need me”. These tiny dogs might be small enough to ride in your tote bag, but they almost live longer than other breeds, sometimes up to 16 years, as stated by the American Kennel Club (AKC). In rare cases, up to 20 years.
They are fiery and funny and deeply loyal. Once a Chihuahua loves you, it is forever.
Why they live long?
These dogs tend to live the longest because they never stop being curious, alert, and attached to the ones they love. Another thing that adds to their long life expectancy is that they are naturally healthy and have a sharp awareness of their surroundings. Plus, they are lightweight, which means they put less strain on their joints.
Their hearts may be small, but they carry years of love in them. Chihuahuas are the kind that stay by your side through every chapter of life.
2. Shih Tzu
The next one is not only a small breed with a long life, but a little heart wrapped in silky fur. There is something timeless about a Shih Tzu, the oldest dog.
Maybe because they have been around for centuries, more than 1,000 years ago, according to Britannica, and still live well into their teen years. These little fluff balls were made to sit on the laps of royalty, but they are happiest just sitting next to you.
Why they live long?
Their calm nature, love for routines, and small size make them low-stress and long-living companions. Their life expectancy on average is 10-18 years, as per the AKC. They don’t ask you for much. Just a soft place to nap and someone to adore.
Maybe that is their secret. They take life slow. With each gentle gaze and quiet presence, a Shih Tzu teaches us that long life happens when you love deeply. They may need some regular grooming, so keep an eye on their maintenance.
3. Maltese
White coat flowing and sweet eyes. Ah, what a small-sized dog to adore! Maltese dogs sure look like they come out of a fairytale. But here’s a surprising part: they live on average 12-15 years or more, mostly getting into their late teens with grace.
Why they live long?
They are among the healthiest dog breeds when they have a healthy weight and access to routine veterinary care. Plus, they were born to be pampered. No doubt. According to PetMD, they may get some inherited conditions and sometimes, heart disease.
They love to love and they live longer because they know they are being loved back. Their joy is simple. A warm lap, a kind voice, a familiar hand to hold. One good thing about their long life is… they don’t rush through life. They float through it. Perhaps that’s why they stay so long.
4. Pomeranian
Behind that cloud of fur is a bold and spirited soul. Pomeranians are curious dogs. They are confident and surprisingly tough. Even with their tiny frame, they are one of the longest living dog breeds. According to AKC, their average lifespans often stretch up to 12-16 years.
Why they live long?
Their small bodies, active minds, and high energy keep them going. They are one of those small breeds that just refuse to slow down. This tiny dog barks with joy, struts like royalty, and cuddles like a pro. Maybe it is due to that fire and spark inside them that keeps this dog’s life long and heart beating strong for so many years.
A Pomeranian lives long and lives loud, proud and full of flair. But be wary of their health issues before taking them to your home. These energetic dogs have some health concerns; they may develop eye problems, lung issues, dental disease, or hip dysplasia.
5. Bichon Frise
If happiness had a shape, it might look like a Bichon Frise. Always smiling and always ready to play. These fluffy pups are known widely for their kind hearts and life expectancy of around 14-15 years.
Why they live long?
They are social and energetic and thrive with families who give them mental stimulation and playtime. They are also generally healthy, but only if you give them the right care.
These dogs live the longest and remind us that staying young at heart might be the secret to a longer life. Their joy is really contagious and fills a room without making a sound. We mean, just look at that mushy smiling face. Don’t you just fall in love? Maybe they live long because they turn every ordinary day into something worth staying for.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a warm cup of coffee on a cold day!! These longest living breeds are comforting, gentle, and full of sweetness. Also, they stay small forever. This dog’s lifespan is around 12-15 years. And we can vouch for their ability to stick around long enough to become the soul of your home.
Why they live long?
This is a devoted breed and a great family pet. Balanced in energy, they are not too hyper, nor too lazy. Their gentle nature and love of companionship help them stay happy and live on average longer than many other dogs.
They share your home and your heart, and move through life with quiet grace. Always close and always watching. Perhaps they live so long because they live so gently and wrap themselves around your life like a favorite memory you never want to let go of.
You might want to get your pet’s health checked for some health problems, such as heart and eye diseases.
7. Chinese Crested
This loyal breed might not look like your average puppy, and so unique than other dogs. They are mostly hairless with wild tufts of fur, but what they lack in looks, they make up for in loyalty and time. Chinese Crested dogs live up to 18 years, and some even longer.
Why they live long?
These dogs do not have the burden of heavy coats or huge frames like some large breeds. They live lightly, both physically and emotionally. They are quiet, affectionate, and thrive on closeness with family, as noted by Purina. For all their quirks, they may become your shadow for years and years. They will follow you from room to room, never ask for much, and just want to be near you.
Maybe their secret to a long life is simple. Stay close to the one you love and never stop watching over them.
Conclusion
There is a reason small dog breeds with long lives are so beloved, and that is they grow old with you. Be it the Jack Russell Terrier, Toy Poodle, Australian Cattle dog, Australian Shepherd, or a Yorkshire Terrier, these hardy breeds need proper care, active lifestyles, regular exercise, and tons of love to live long.
Some say the longest living breeds are just lucky with a big personality. But maybe it is more than that. Maybe it is the way these small dogs love. Fiercely, loyally, and without end. That must keep their little hearts beating for so long.
