Choosing a dog is a big deal. You want a furry friend who sticks around for years and doesn’t ignore you when it’s time to listen. The good news? Some of the longest-living dog breeds are also easy to train. That means more time together and less stress over bad habits.
Small dog breeds and medium-sized dogs often have the longest lifespan. With a healthy diet, mental stimulation, and proper care, these dogs can enjoy a happy life. Larger breeds may be lovely, but they usually face more health concerns. A healthy weight and regular play keep dogs feeling young.
This blog shines a light on the longest living dog breeds that are easy to train. You’ll learn what makes these dogs great family pets.
Longest-Living Dog Breeds That Are Easy To Train
1. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu is a small breed with a small snout native to Tibet. These furry companions have a long history that dates back centuries. However, according to PetMD, it was officially recognized by the AKC in 1969.
Moreover, Shih Tzu Club states that these “Lion Dogs,” as their name means, were bred to look like lions, and they are linked to Buddhism.
Moreover, they have a unique appearance, including a long flowing double coat, a flat face with a short, squared muzzle. And the big, dark eyes that always give sweet expressions. Further, their “chrysanthemum-like” head also adds to the crismetic look.
They are extremely loyal and friendly dogs and great with families and kids. They are also known as loving lapdogs. Moreover, they have lower exercise needs and are ideal for apartment life. Their coat is also hypoallergenic. They are excessive barkers; therefore, they do need proper training.
Overall, they are the healthiest dog breeds and live up to 18 years. However, their squished brachycephalic face can cause health issues in their life.
2. Chihuahua
The Mexican dog is recognized as the smallest breed and named after the Chihuahua state. Affectionately called Chis, this is a small packet but big personality.
It has a rounded apple head, large and erect ears, clear eyes, and a compact body. The coat can be of a different color and length. It was formally recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904.
Their loyalty and loving nature make them great family pets. Whenever you need them, you will find them at your side. Moreover, due to their small height and body, they are easy to carry along.
Their average lifespan is 14 to 16 years, and they are considered as longest living dog breeds. Moreover, these small dogs tend to please, therefore easy to train. While training, ensure they get positive reinforcement. So it is also the best dog for 1st time owners.
3. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise belongs to the non-sporting breed, originally from the Mediterranean region. Although they are small in size but they are truly robust and sturdy. You will see them in white color, but puppies may have a cream or pale yellow hue. Their curly and silky coat sets them apart from other dogs.
These tiny dogs are playful and affectionate; therefore, they thrive in companionship. Their best time is the one spent with family members. These social butterflies get along well with other pets and even strangers.
Their life expectancy is 15 years, which is a good number. Despite of size, they are quite intelligent and easy to train. However, pet parents must give early socialization to these rockstars. They usually respond well to reward-based training.
4. Australian Cattle Dog
Australian cattle dog is a medium-sized herding dog breed originally bred to herd cattle in Australia. Depending on their coat color, they can be called Blue Heeler or Red Heeler. Whatever the color of the coat is, these dogs are highly energetic and love to work.
These devoted dogs usually form a bond with one person instead of others. Moreover, they are “Velcro,” which means they attach so strongly and like physical contact with the desired person. Due to their natural herding instinct, this breed tends to nip pets, kids, and other dogs.
These energetic dogs have an impressive life span and are considered long-lived dogs. They are generally healthy dogs with a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years.
Moreover, they are easier to train as they are intelligent and strive to please their owners. But these dogs must be trained by a person with knowledge. First-time pet parents are not recommended for this task.
5. Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher, or Mini Pin for short, is a pincher-type German dog breed. The breed was primarily bred to hunt vermin like rats in homes or stables. Its most distinguishing characteristics are its high-stepping, hackney gait. Truly, this is not found in any other breed.
Interestingly, the Miniature Pinscher is one of the tallest toy breeds. Their height ranges between 10 to 12 1/2 inches. However, their weight is less, roughly 8 to 10 pounds. The coat is short and silky. The Min Pin is available in three different colors.
This breed is ideal for those who live in flats or smaller homes. Moreover, they don’t need much exercise, although they like going on walks and playing fetch. They are especially suitable for households with children, as they are extremely tolerant and sensitive, as per Britannica.
These loving dogs have a long lifespan of 16 years, and they are considered among the longest living dog breeds. Moreover, they are intelligent, and their eagerness to please makes them relatively easier to train. However, their independent streak may be a hurdle.
6. Maltese
Maltese dogs are an ancient variety of dwarfs generally associated with Malta. These small dogs are known for luxurious floor-length white coats, giving them a free-flowing elegance. Moreover, they don’t have an undercoat, so they don’t shed much.
Apart from their coat, they have an elegant, rounded skull, a black nose, drooping ears, sparkling eyes, and short but straight legs. They are small enough to be suitable for apartment or condo living.
These dogs live between 12 to 15 years, and they are generally a healthy breed. But might have some inherited medical issues.
With the right approach, Maltese are easier to train. Moreover, they enjoy training for treats; therefore, positive reinforcement methods and rewarding work best.
7. Toy Poodle
Poodle is a German water dog breed that is divided into 4 categories based on their size. Their thick, curly coat comes in a variety of colors and patterns, but only solid colors are recognized by major breed organizations.
The Toy Poodle is a very intelligent and amusing canine breed. Despite being little more than 10 inches tall and only 4-6 pounds, the Toy Poodle has a huge, lively temperament that can fill an entire space.
Toy Poodles are not only lovely; they also make excellent family pets. Toy Poodles also shed less, making them a good alternative for people who have allergies. However, a dog that is entirely “hypoallergenic” does not exist.
The average Toy Poodle lifetime is 10-18 years, and they are a healthy breed generally. However, as one of the longest living breeds, they are prone to a few health problems that may necessitate medical attention.
Conclusion
Choosing a long-living, easy-to-train dog means more years of tail wags, happy walks, and fewer destroyed slippers! These breeds bring joy, loyalty, and just the right amount of mischief to keep life interesting.
With a little care, love, and the occasional treat bribe, you’ll have a furry friend by your side for many wonderful years. So, choose wisely, your future best friend is waiting!
