Every dog brings joy, companionship, and unconditional love—but some breeds are especially remarkable for sticking around longer, offering years of devotion and affection.
If you’re looking for a canine companion to share decades of life with, it helps to know which breeds are celebrated for both longevity and a loving nature. But living long isn’t just about years—it’s about the quality of life, the bond, and the loving heart they bring to every interaction.
Today, we will explore dog breeds celebrated for both their long lifespans and warm, loving personalities. From small pups with boundless energy to medium breeds with gentle natures, these dogs prove that longevity and love go hand in paw.
If you want a furry friend with impressive lifespan who will be by your side for many years while showering you with affection, these breeds are ideal companions.
Did you know? Smaller and mixed-breed dogs often live longer than larger breeds, sometimes reaching 15–20 years with proper care. Genetics, diet, exercise, and regular veterinary attention all contribute, but temperament also plays a role.
7 Dog Breeds with the Longest Lifespans & Loving Hearts
1. Toy Poodle
Average Lifespan: 10–18 years
Tiny but mighty, Toy Poodles are the little dynamos of the dog world. Being the smallest of the Poodle family—smaller than the Miniature and Standard Poodles—they often live the longest, making them a favorite for people who want a long-term canine companion.
Don’t let their petite size fool you: these pups have brains that could rival a college professor (or at least one who’s really into fetch). Basic training? A breeze. Fancy tricks? They’ll nail them faster than you can say “sit!”
Toy Poodles have a personality that’s bigger than their tiny paws. They’re playful, loyal, and love showering their humans with affection—sometimes in the form of cuddles, sometimes in the form of sneaky attempts to steal your snacks.
Of course, longevity doesn’t mean invincibility. Toy Poodles are prone to a few small-dog health conditions including:
Eye issues
Dental disease
Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
Luxating patellas
Even with these potential hurdles, the Toy Poodle’s long lifespan and affectionate personality make them a top choice for anyone seeking a lifelong, loving companion with a sprinkle of sass.
2. Shih Tzu
Average Lifespan: 10–18 years
Shih Tzus are like little royalty in the dog kingdom—affectionate, cheerful, and always ready to make you feel like their loyal subject.
The Shih Tzu is a small dog known for its unique appearance, featuring long, flowing hair, short legs, and big, expressive eyes. With a friendly and loving nature and a liking for compact living spaces, this breed has become a favorite among dog enthusiasts.
These tiny dynamos love playtime with their humans, but once the fun is over, they transform into lap-warming experts who can snooze in style for hours. Basically, they’re part entertainer, part snuggle machine.
Their signature squished, smooshy face—adorable as it is—does come with a few royal quirks. Shih Tzus can be prone to few health problems such as:
Breathing issues
Overheating
Parasites
Obesity
Despite these challenges, Shih Tzus are all heart. Their sunny personality, affectionate nature, and surprisingly long lifespan make them a perfect companion for anyone ready to share a lifetime of cuddles, giggles, and the occasional nose honk.
3. Yorkshire Terrier
Average Lifespan: 11–15 years
Tiny in size but enormous in personality, the Yorkshire Terrier—fondly called the Yorkie—is a pint-sized bundle of spunk, curiosity, and just a dash of sass.
Before becoming the popular dogs we adore today, Yorkies were fierce little hunters, chasing rodents in textile mills for Scottish weavers who migrated to England in the mid-1800s. Talk about humble beginnings!
Yorkies are affectionate, bold, and endlessly curious. They’re always ready for an adventure, whether it’s a brisk walk around the block or sneaking onto the couch for a cuddle. But don’t be fooled: these tiny terriers have a strong-willed streak and aren’t afraid to raise their voice when something doesn’t go their way.
However, these little lapdogs can be prone to few health issues such as:
Patellar luxation
Hypoglycemia
Dental disease
Tracheal collapse
High energy and brainy, Yorkies thrive on mental and physical stimulation—think puzzle toys, training sessions, or games of “who can bark at the mail carrier the loudest.” And while they’re generally a healthy breed, they do have a few quirks to keep an eye on:
Yorkies make wonderful companions for apartments, houses, or anywhere you can accommodate their tiny but mighty energy. That said, families with very young children might want to proceed with caution—Yorkies are affectionate, but they’re also delicate and sometimes bossy little divas.
4. Coton de Tulear
Average Lifespan: 15–19 years
If there were an award for “clownish charm wrapped in fluff,” the Coton de Tulear would win hands down. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC) enthusiasts often describe these little white clouds as witty, lighthearted, and “remarkably gentle” companions.
They’re boisterous when the mood strikes—but never demanding—making them the perfect mix of playful mischief and loyal best friend. Cotons are adaptable, happy-go-lucky dogs who thrive in almost any living situation.
These affectionate fluffballs make great family pets and travel buddies. Their one “request”? Keep that signature fluffy coat groomed and show them plenty of love, and they’ll reward you with years of devotion.
Health-wise, Cotons are generally hardy and enjoy long lifespans of 15–19 years. Like any breed, they have a few potential health quirks:
Luxating patella
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Canine degenerative myelopathy
They enjoy a good romp in the yard but don’t require constant entertainment to stay content. What they do need is people—lots of love, companionship, and maybe a cuddle or two (or ten). Left alone for long stretches, these social butterflies can get a little lonely, so they shine in homes where family life is active and affectionate.
With proper care, routine veterinary care, and a little coat TLC, your Coton de Tulear will have ahappy, healthy life.
5. Maltese
Average Life Expectancy: 12–15 years
Meet the Maltese: a tiny, elegant ball of fluff with a personality as dazzling as their floor-length white coat. Known for their playful and affectionate nature, these oldest dogs have been stealing hearts (and couches) for centuries.
Think of them as the Bichon Frise’s chic cousin—small, white, hypoallergenic, and impressively long-lived. Their luxurious silky coats demand daily pampering, so if you’re ready for a brushing routine that rivals a beauty salon, the Maltese will happily oblige.
The good news? They’re generally healthy, meaning most of your energy goes into grooming rather than managing chronic medical issues. That said, they do have a few things to watch out for:
Luxating patella
Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
Liver shunts & other heart defects
Thanks to their relatively low risk for genetic diseases, Maltese make excellent long-term companions. With proper veterinary care—and just a touch of pampering—these little fluffballs have been known to live years beyond expectations.
Beyond their good looks and long lifespan, Maltese are true companions. They form close bonds with their families and prefer to be wherever you are.
PetMD noted leave them alone too long, and they may develop separation anxiety—but give them love, attention, and a comfy lap, and you’ve got a devoted, lifelong friend.
6. Lhasa Apso
Average Lifespan: 12–15 years
With a coat so long it practically sweeps the floor, the Lhasa Apso looks like a tiny, adorable mop—if that mop had a big personality and a surprisingly sharp sense of alertness.
Originally bred as vigilant watch dogs for Tibetan monasteries and palaces, these little fluffballs were trained to spot intruders (and maybe judge the monks a little) long before they ever learned the art of lap-sitting.
Today, Lhasas are perfectly content lounging on couches, keeping one eye on the world, and the other on your snack stash. While they’re generally healthy, their gorgeous eyes need attention. Lhasa Apsos can be prone to:
Cataracts
Glaucoma
Dry eye
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Fun fact: there seems to be a pattern among long-lived breeds—dogs with uniquely spelled names often sneak straight to the top of the lifespan charts. Could it be that a fancy name equals longevity? Lhasa Apso might just be proof.
With proper care, regular vet check-ups, and a soft lap to call their own, Lhasa Apsos can bring years of charm, mischief, and unwavering companionship.
7. Chinese Crested
Average Lifespan: 13–18 years
If you’re looking for a dog that’s equal parts runway model and quirky companion, the Chinese Crested dog fits the bill perfectly.
These tiny, elegant dogs are instantly recognizable—most are hairless except for silky tufts on their head, paws, and tail, while the rarer “powderpuff” variety comes fully coated in soft hair. Either way, they’re undeniably eye-catching and full of personality.
Chinese Cresteds aren’t just about looks—they’re long-lived, affectionate, and devoted companions who often stay healthy well into their teens (some have even been known to live into their 20s!). That said, their unique physiology does come with a few potential health concerns, including:
Eye problems
Dental disease
Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
These lap dogs may be small, but they carry a big heart—and a flair for the dramatic. With proper care, love, and regular vet visits, a Chinese Crested can bring years of companionship, laughter, and yes… a little runway-ready attitude to your home.
Conclusion
Dog breeds with the longest lifespans and loving hearts—smaller breeds such such as Dachshund (wiener dogs), Shetland Sheepdogs, Miniature Schnauzers, Shih Tzu and medium sized breeds like Shiba Inu, Australian Cattle Dogs, Australian Shepherds, Border Collies, and offer human companionship and remain lively, alert, and intelligent well into their senior years. These lovable pups tend to live happy lives when pet parents maintain healthy weight, canine health, daily walks, dental cleanings, and regular veterinarian care.
Genetic traits and ancestors influence a dog’s lifespan, while factors like agility courses, protection instincts, and the dog’s history also play a role. With proper care, many pups live into their late teens, providing decades of companionship, time spent together, and joy for owners, demonstrating that certain breeds combine long life with a devoted, affectionate nature.
