All dog lovers fear the day they might have to say goodbye to their beloved pup, but you will be glad to know that some dogs have long lifespans. These breeds can share your companionship for many years, allowing you to cherish your bond throughout your life.
While every dog has a limited lifespan, some live significantly longer than others. If you want your dog to live a long, happy life, it’s essential to provide them with love, attention, proper nutrition, and regular healthcare.
With the right care, you’ll see them stay joyful and active well into old age. In this article, we introduce you to some of the longest living dog breeds, which bring joy and delight to your home. They become such permanent parts of your family that life without them feels incomplete
Key Takeaways
Longevity is a combination of care and genetics. A healthy routine, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper attention help dogs reach nearly two decades
Regular exercise is crucial. Active lifestyles and agility courses keep dogs energetic, mentally sharp, and fit.
Routine veterinary care extends life. Early detection of health problems such as heart disease, skin allergies, or progressive retinal atrophy is vital.
Longest Living Dog Breeds in the World
1. Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is a remarkable breed, blending intelligence, energy, and loyalty into one striking package. Born from European roots but perfected in California, Aussies quickly became the cowboys’ go-to herding dog, famed for their keen gaze and tireless work ethic.
Their beautiful coats, including the iconic merle patterns, hint at their rugged, agile nature as they move livestock or play endlessly in the yard.
Aussies thrive on activity; they need daily exercise, mental challenges, and a sense of purpose. Left idle, their boundless energy can lead to mischief, but with proper training and socialization, they become devoted, affectionate companions.
Their health is generally robust, though responsible breeders screen for hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and eye conditions, according to the American Kennel Club. Regular grooming, dental care, and ear checks keep them at their best.
For those who can match their energy and smarts, Australian Shepherds offer years of loyalty, adventure, and joy, making them a long-living, unforgettable companion.
2. Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small dog with a big personality, blending intelligence, charm, and loyalty. Originating in Germany as a hardworking breed for herding, ratting, and pulling carts, these little bearded dogs have a rich history dating back to the late 1400s.
Their signature mustaches and eyebrows give them a wise, expressive face, perfectly matching their spirited and alert nature.
Miniature Schnauzers adapt effortlessly to city apartments or country life. They thrive on daily exercise, mental stimulation, and fun activities like agility, obedience, or puzzle games, as explained by PetMD.
Despite their lively energy, they are affectionate family companions who bond deeply with their owners and enjoy being part of everyday life.
With proper care, grooming, and a balanced diet, Miniature Schnauzers are generally healthy, living 12–15 years on average. Their alertness, charm, and devotion make them a joyful, long-living companion for families willing to match their energy and love.
3. Papillon
The Papillon is a tiny dog with a grand personality, named for its distinctive butterfly-like ears, though some have the softer, floppy “moth” ears, known as Phalene.
Descended from toy Spaniels and appearing in European paintings as far back as the 16th century, Papillons were beloved companions of royalty and nobility, including Marie Antoinette.
Elegant yet spirited, Papillons are renowned for their intelligence, agility, and playful nature. Due to their small size, they are perfectly suited for apartment living or homes with gardens.
They thrive on daily walks, playtime, and mental challenges like learning tricks or agility courses. Their long, silky coat requires regular grooming, but their small size makes care manageable.
Friendly, alert, and highly trainable, Papillons bond deeply with their families and enjoy being part of every activity. With proper exercise, nutrition, and care, these tiny dynamos can live up to 16 years, offering long years of loyalty, fun, and companionship.
4. Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dogs, often called Heelers, are energetic, intelligent, and loyal dogs with a fascinating history. Originally bred in 19th-century Australia to herd cattle across vast, rugged landscapes, these medium-sized dogs developed remarkable stamina, agility, and an instinct for problem-solving.
Known for their speckled blue or red coats and distinctive tan markings, Heelers are instantly recognizable, with alert, expressive eyes and muscular, athletic builds, as stated by Britannica.
Highly active and independent, Australian Cattle Dogs thrive when given a job or mental challenge, whether it’s herding, agility training, or interactive games.
They are affectionate and loyal to their families, good with children when properly socialized, and generally friendly with other pets, though their herding instinct may make them nippy at times.
With regular exercise, training, and a nutritious diet, these smart, devoted dogs can live 12–15 years, offering long-lasting companionship to owners who can match their energy and enthusiasm.
5. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, often called the “Lion Dog,” has a regal history rooted in China and Tibet, where it was cherished by royalty and closely associated with Buddhism.
This small, charming companion is believed to have descended from a mix of the Pekingese and Lhasa Apso, combining elegance with a playful, affectionate personality.
Shih Tzus are lively, cheerful lap dogs who thrive on human companionship. They enjoy lounging on pillows or your lap, but don’t be fooled, they have a spirited side and can assert themselves when needed.
Friendly with other pets and social with strangers, they are perfect for families or individuals seeking a devoted, loving companion. Their intelligence is matched by a stubborn streak, making patient, consistent training essential.
Low exercise needs make them ideal for apartments, but they do enjoy short daily walks. With proper care, grooming, and attention, Shih Tzus can live 10–16 years, offering years of loyal, heartwarming companionship.
6. Rat Terrier
Rat Terriers are spirited, affectionate, and endlessly playful, making them a delightful companion for families and individuals alike. Once the quintessential farm dog of America, they were bred to hunt and control pests like rats, rabbits, and moles, which earned them their name.
Over time, their intelligence, loyalty, and sociable nature made them beloved family pets.
These small to medium-sized dogs are muscular and agile, with sleek coats often marked by striking pied patterns. Their energetic personality means they thrive on daily exercise, interactive play, and mental stimulation, making them excellent candidates for agility or obedience training.
Rat Terriers are generally healthy, with a lifespan of 15–18 years, though occasional concerns include hip dysplasia or heart issues. Low-maintenance grooming, proper nutrition, and regular veterinary care can help them thrive.
Affectionate, clever, and loyal, Rat Terriers reward their owners with years of lively companionship and unwavering devotion.
7. Chihuahua
Don’t let their tiny size fool you; Chihuahuas are full of courage, personality, and charm. This beloved Mexican breed thrives on attention and affection, often forming a deep bond with one special person in the household.
Bold and alert, Chihuahuas are protective of their favorite humans, earning a reputation for “big dog” confidence in a pint-sized body. Chihuahuas come in long or short coats, in a wide spectrum of colors.
Their sleek, muscular bodies and expressive, round eyes give them a spunky, saucy look that matches their feisty personality.
Despite their independence, Chihuahuas enjoy lap time, short walks, and playful indoor activity. With consistent training, socialization, and careful care, they thrive in both apartments and homes, bringing companionship, loyalty, and joy.
With a lifespan of 12–20 years, Chihuahuas are one of the longest-living dog breeds, offering decades of spirited, affectionate companionship.
8. Dachshund
Dachshunds may be small, but they are bursting with personality, energy, and affection. Known for their long backs and short legs, these playful dogs are spirited, clever, and endlessly entertaining, often getting into mischief before curling up for a cozy nap with their favorite human.
Their coats come in smooth, long, or wire-haired varieties, with both standard and miniature sizes, offering a range of colors and textures.
Dachshunds thrive in homes where they receive plenty of attention, exercise, and mental stimulation. Daily walks, gentle play, and puzzle games keep them happy and healthy, while careful training and early socialization help curb stubbornness and excessive barking.
Because of their unique build, owners must protect their backs from strenuous jumping and overexertion, according to PDSA.
With proper care, socialization, and responsible breeding, Dachshunds can live 12–16 years, offering loyal companionship, endless charm, and playful antics to brighten the lives of their families.
9. Poodle
Poodles are one of the most intelligent and versatile dog breeds in the world, admired for their loyalty, charm, and playful nature. Originally bred as water retrievers in Europe, they helped hunters bring in fish and track small game.
Today, Poodles are beloved companions, excelling not only in homes but also in dog shows, therapy work, and even service roles, thanks to their keen intelligence and emotional awareness.
Poodles come in four sizes, standard, medium, miniature, and toy, but all share similar traits: curiosity, affection, and high trainability. Their curly, low-shedding coats make them a hypoallergenic choice, though they do require regular grooming.
Poodles are great with children and other pets, particularly when socialized early, and thrive with daily exercise and mental stimulation.
With proper care, a balanced diet, and routine vet checkups, poodles can live 12–15 years, offering decades of playful companionship, unwavering loyalty, and heartwarming intelligence.
10. Border Collie
Border Collies, born along the rugged English-Scottish border in the 1800s, are legendary for their intelligence and work ethic.
The breed’s foundation dog, Hemp, gained fame in the first competitive sheepdog trial of 1873, herding sheep with a unique “eye” technique, staring and stalking rather than nipping, which became the hallmark of the breed.
Early Border Collies were selected purely for skill, not appearance, a principle that still guides working lines today.
These dogs are endlessly energetic, playful, and highly trainable, thriving when given both physical and mental challenges. They excel in herding, agility, obedience, and other canine sports, but without stimulation, they can become bored or frustrated, according to VCA Hospitals.
Border Collies are generally good with children and other pets, though somewhat reserved with strangers. Their coats, smooth or rough, need regular brushing, and their diet should be balanced to maintain a lean, healthy body.
With proper care, Border Collies can live 10–14 years, offering devoted companionship and unmatched vitality.
Conclusion
When considering the longest living dog breeds in the world, it’s clear that a combination of genetics, proper care, and a healthy routine can help your furry friend enjoy a longer life span.
Small breeds like toy poodles, Shih Tzus, Bichon Frises, and Yorkshire Terriers often top the list, while medium-sized breeds such as Border Collies and Australian Shepherds also thrive when given mental and physical stimulation.
Even larger dogs like Australian Cattle Dogs can reach impressive ages with routine veterinary care, balanced diets, and regular exercise.
Maintaining a healthy weight, providing proper training, and addressing health problems like progressive retinal atrophy, dental disease, or heart disease can greatly improve a dog’s lifespan.
Ultimately, whether you’re caring for an energetic dog, a loyal breed, or a gentle lap dog, investing time, attention, and love ensures your wonderful family pet enjoys a happy life, potentially living nearly two decades as one of the longest living breeds.
