When you bring home a dog, you are really bringing home years of love, laughter, and loyal companionship. But… what if you could stretch those years a little longer?
Some small dogs are not only ridiculously cute but also long-lived and surprisingly healthy. Larger dogs tend to age faster, but these little pups can stick around for well over 15-20 years, filling your home (and heart) with endless joy.
So, if you are doing your homework on which breeds truly give you a long, healthy, and happy life together, this list of healthy small dog breeds with long lifespans is for you. These longest living dog breeds prove that being tiny can mean living big.
But you need to be mindful of the potential health issues and other factors, as well.
Fun Fact!
Did you know, the oldest dog ever recorded was an Australian Cattle Dog named Bluey, who lived to a jaw-dropping 29 years and 5 months, and got the Guinness World Record for it (although, not a small dog, but rather compact). That is nearly three decades of tail wags, treats and love. It proves that with proper care, a high quality diet and regular vet visits can help our furry friends live way longer than we think!!
Healthy Small Dog Breeds With Long Lifespans
1. Chihuahua
Ah yes, the Chihuahuas. Small in size, big in personality, and an absolute legend in the “live longer, live forever” club. These tiny pups can easily reach 16 years, with some living up to 18 years or more when kept at a healthy weight.
Tiny, sassy, with a big spirit and expressive eyes.
Great for apartments, easy to train and care for.
Fiercely devoted to their humans.
These dogs are feisty, loyal, and full of energy, yet surprisingly easy to maintain. Because of their small size, they need less exercise than larger breeds; a few short walks and indoor playtime are usually enough.
Their life expectancy is among the highest of all dog breeds, around 14 years to 16 years, as per the American Kennel Club, thanks to their strong genetics and relatively few health problems compared to other small breeds.
But here’s the deal! Chihuahuas can be prone to dental problems if you skip brushing. Regular grooming and good oral care go a long way toward extending your dog’s lifespan.
2. Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles are mysterious. It seems like they are always in shape, never age, and somehow stay sharp forever. These intelligent puppies combine elegance and brains with an impressive lifespan; they often reach 12-15 years or more, as noted by WebMD.
A small, curly-coated bundle of brains and charm.
Minimal health conditions when cared for properly.
Smart, loyal, and easy to train.
Thrive with regular grooming and a structured routine.
Their life expectancy outpaces many larger dogs, and it is no coincidence. Toy Poodles are naturally healthy and active, with very few health issues when bred responsibly.
They do best with regular exercise, mental stimulation, and a high-quality diet to keep them feeling young. They are also extremely affectionate, great with kids, and adaptable to family life.
If you live in a city apartment or a suburban home, a Toy Poodle fits right in (all types of Poodles do). And let’s be honest… those curly coats and proud little struts never get old.
3. Havanese
Soft, sweet, and endlessly friendly. The Havanese is one of America’s favorite small dog breeds, and that is for good reason. These fun-loving pups are healthy, happy, and can easily live 16 years or more.
Small pups, fluff balls, affectionate and easy to train, with a love for attention and comfort.
Low risk of major health issues.
Social and gentle, perfect companion dogs.
Love spending time indoors with pet parents.
These dogs are very famous for their playful energy and loving personality. Havanese dogs are great with families, kids, and even other pets. They are rarely aggressive and adapt beautifully to almost any home setup.
Health-wise, they are generally fine, but can be prone to eye issues or hip dysplasia if overfed or under-exercised.
Keeping them at a healthy weight with balanced meals and consistent exercise, 30 minutes daily, as per PetMD, is key to helping them live longer and enjoy that easygoing, happy life they are known for.
4. Shiba Inu
Independent, alert, and full of personality, the Shiba Inu might just be the most self-assured small breed on this list. These Japanese-origin pups are long-lived dogs with a typical lifespan of 13-16 years, and they often stay healthy well into old age.
Foxlike, confident and loyal; with a unique blend of independence and affection.
Known for excellent health and vitality.
Minimal health issues, just keep them active.
One of the longest living dog breeds with endless charm.
Shibas are active and clever, so they need mental stimulation and regular exercise to stay balanced for a long life. But despite their energetic side, they are relatively low-maintenance dogs when it comes to grooming and health issues.
With proper care, they remain lean, bright-eyed, and full of life for a long time.
They are also one of the cleanest dog breeds, and dog lovers compare them to cats for their hygiene habits. So, if you love a pet that looks sharp and keeps itself neat, this Asian dog breed is your go-to.
5. Chinese Crested
Well… these dogs have very unusual looks! But, stop! Don’t let that fool you. The Chinese Crested is a fine-boned toy breed, a total sweetheart, and one of the longest living dog breeds out there, as they often live up to 18 years!
Tiny, elegant, and expressive dogs are famous for their loyalty and sweetness.
Low risk of major health issues.
Social and affectionate dog; loves gentle routines.
Thrive with warmth, skincare, and good dental hygiene.
Their tiny size, gentle nature, big personality, and low exercise needs make them ideal indoor pets. They come in two varieties: Hairless (with that iconic tufted hair on their head and tail) and Powderpuff (fully coated with fine, silky coats). Both are healthy, low-shedding, and surprisingly easy to care for.
Just be mindful of skincare for the hairless type and dental issues in general. Brushing and regular vet visits will help a lot in making sure of a long life. These dogs are quirky, affectionate, and adore spending time with their humans.
6. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise (pronounced BEE-shon Free-ZAY) is a living cotton ball. All fluff, no drama! These cheerful little white dogs are a long-lived dog breed, typically making it to 15 years or more with proper care.
Small, cheerful, and hypoallergenic dogs, a true family favorite.
They have fewer health issues than their larger counterparts, easy to care for.
Great for families and other pets.
Happy, playful, and full of love.
This popular breed has a friendly and affectionate personality, which is why they are ideal for family pets. Plus, they are known for being low-shedding, which is great for pet parents with allergies.
Health-wise, they are usually solid, but may be prone to eye issues or dental issues. Regular grooming and dental care keep them glowing and healthy. They also have a very active streak; short walks, a little playtime, and some training sessions will keep them fit and sharp.
That playful nature and big-dog type personality make every day brighter.
7. Dachshund
Ah, the Dachshund. Or as most Americans lovingly call them, “wiener dogs”. These long-bodied, short-legged charmers are loyal, curious, and surprisingly long-lived dogs. With good care, many live 12-16 years or more.
Long, brave, and full of personality, small dogs with massive hearts.
This longest living dog breed needs proper exercise and diet.
Social, affectionate, and devoted to their families.
Keep them slim to prevent back issues.
Doxies are famous for their outgoing spirit, lively and bold attitude… despite being “so close to the ground”. But one should never underestimate them; they were bred to hunt badgers, so there’s still a spark of adventure and the great outdoors in these little hearts.
Their physical health is usually fine, except for hip dysplasia and back problems from their unique build. Keeping them at a healthy weight and avoiding too many stairs can help extend their life expectancy dramatically.
And when it comes to love… few are such loyal dogs.
Conclusion
These seven healthy small dog breeds with long lifespans prove that great things come in small, wagging packages.
Sure, big dogs are majestic, but small breeds often have a better average lifespan, thanks to their not-so-difficult-to-manage size, slower aging, and fewer health issues. Add that to regular vet visits, good nutrition, and lots of affection, and you have the recipe for a truly happy life your dog lives.
Because it is all about how much love your dog’s life can bring into your years!
