Though all dogs are charming, those with a bearded face are undoubtedly irresistible. They appeared adorable and totally worth hugging for long periods. These dogs with their flowing facial fringes have a distinct appearance when compared to other dogs.
What makes these dogs even more precious is the fact that they come with a long lifespan. They are supposed to stay with you for a considerable amount of time, watching you go through various phases of life. And, gives what? They are always there to share your joys and comfort you when the times are low!
So, why the wait? Let’s check out some of the really amazing Bearded Dog Breeds with a Long Lifespan.
Bearded Dog Breeds with a Long Lifespan
1. Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is known for its appearance, which is mostly hijacked by a massive beard. These dogs have a distinct-looking beard that covers their faces, while the eyebrow hairs are also excessive.
Now, taking care of this beard comes with responsibility. You need to make sure the hair doesn’t tangle and appear messy. Regular grooming can help you maintain their hair neatly. This includes brushing the hair daily. Even if you are super busy, make sure to take out a few minutes by the end of the day and brush the dog’s hair. Also, you can use dog wipes to remove all the dirt and soil that may have accumulated on the dog’s beard after a long day of play and mischief!
This Reddit Thread gives great tips on grooming this dog’s beard.
These dogs are small in size, but super active and alert.
Just like most small dogs, they live a long time. Their average life span is around 12-14 years. They are healthy dogs and, most of the time, don’t really get any medical problems.
With these lap dogs, you need early socialisation as they are wary of strangers and may exhibit weird behaviour when they encounter a new person at home.
2. Scottish Terrier
Terrier breeds are known for their distinctive appearances and lively personalities. However, the Scottish Terrier is the most good-looking one amongst them all and has a royal impression.
With merely 10 inches of height, this dog comes with a mushy beard and erect ears. You can spot this dog even from afar, thanks to its excessive facial hair. Another thing that sets them apart from other dogs is their long, pointy noses.
Scotties have a lot of hair on their bodies. This is why you need to give them some extra attention, or else they may end up stinking!
Belonging to the Scottish highlands, these dogs have a long lifespan. They tend to live for as long as 12-15 years.
Despite being healthy dogs, they are predisposed to some genetic conditions. As a matter of fact, you need to get your pet from a responsible breeder to ensure it doesn’t fall sick frequently.
3. Bearded Collie
Well, the name says it all! Who else will have a face full of hair if not the ‘Bearded’ Collie?
The shaggy beard of this dog is so long that it extends all the way to its lower lip. This further extends and unites with this dog’s thick, double coat, which is supposed to protect it from the harsh environment and keep it safe.
As this dogs love outdoor activities, this thick beard and double coat is surely a blessing!
Owing to their excessive hair, you may end up spending a lot of your time grooming these dogs. Some pet owners also shave their dogs to avoid this inconvenience. However, it is usually suggested not to do so as it would take away your pet’s charm!
Originally bred as herding dogs, they have a long lifespan. You can expect this pet to stay with you for as long as 12–14 years. However, make sure you feed it good food full of all the nutrition it needs.
4. Yorkshire Terrier
A Yorkshire Terrier can live for around 11–15 years on average.
This means owning this dog is equivalent to keeping a lifelong friend. With their short legs and a face full of beard, they look super-adorable.
For this terrier breed, the length of hair on its beard depends on its genetics (Well, just like us humans). On average, you can expect it to grow as much as 3 inches. However, if it annoys you (or the dog), you can cut this beard to some inches and it won’t look bad!
Thanks to their silky coats, cuddling with them gives a velvety feel. This canine is surely loved by the kids owing to its hugability!
5. Affenpinscher
The ‘monkey’ looking dog, Affenpinscher, has a body full of hair!
Be it its quirky beard, a full, hairy moustache, or the mushy eyebrows, they are unique in themselves, giving this dog an unusual appearance.
This hypoallergenic dog has wiry fur spreading throughout its body. For those who are prone to catching allergies, this dog is a great choice. It’s fun, adorable, and extremely convenient!
With a life expectancy of around 12–15 years, these dogs have a sturdy body and rarely suffer from any health issues. However, these dogs are considered rare! If you want to have one, you may have to pay a hefty price for it.
6. Sealyham Terrier
The Sealyham Terrier has a wiry coat that is super weather-resistant. On top of this coat, this dog wears a massive beard that covers most of its face!
This makes this dog a total looker.
However, it comes with a downside!
PetMD claims you need to put in some extra effort to groom it. For instance, to avoid matting, you need to brush the beard on a regular basis. You’ll have to commit to this routine and brush its hair at least once every two days. Regular trimming is also necessary for the dog to appear neat and tidy!
Make sure to give this dog a nutritious diet. It will have a good impact on the appearance of this dog’s beard and would make it appear lush.
Oh, and you’ll have to do it for a long time, as this dog comes with a long life expectancy of around 12 – 14 years.
7. Wire Fox Terrier
These confident dogs live for as many as 13-14 years and hardly get sick!
Thanks to their healthy bodies, the Wire Fox Terrier is one of the most sought-after and easiest to maintain dogs out there.
With its wiry, double coat type, it showcases a distinctive appearance, as per Purina. With very dense hair on the face, the beard of this dog is also a standout feature.
As far as the grooming of this dog is concerned, you need to make regular brushing a part of your lifestyle. This will ensure minimal knots and matting. Additionally, pluck out the dead hair every three months to maintain neatness.
Despite being healthy dogs, they are prone to hip dysplasia. Hence, it’s important to prevent them from getting overly excited or active in a fenced yard.
8. Brussels Griffon
These super affectionate dogs are gifted with a long life that usually goes up to 15 years!
Known for hunting rodents, the Brussels Griffon was originally bred in Belgium.
These dogs are bursting with energy. AKC calls them intelligent yet sensitive. They have a super confident personality that gives them the capability to mingle with all the members of the family instantly.
This dog is covered in a glossy coat that is short in length. Grooming is relatively easy, thanks to its silky coat.
One thing that you need to consider while owning this dog as a pet is its dental health. These dogs are prone to tooth problems, and regular visits to a vet can help you avoid them.
9. Lhasa Apso
Belonging to Tibet, the Lhasa Apso is one of the most active and robust dogs you will ever come across in the dog world! Their agility sets them apart from other dogs.
These dogs have a life expectancy of 12 – 14 years.
Though this is a brachycephalic breed with a flat face, it has lots of facial hair covering it. The Lhasa apsos have straight and dense hair. As they are silky, their grooming is not much of a problem.
Oh, and let me clarify, these dogs are not people pleasers. So, if you are having a tough time training this dog, you need to put in some extra effort in the process. Some treats and positive training methods may help you achieve your goals.
Conclusion
Having a dog by your side means having a friend who knows how to comfort you when times are bad! Dogs with a long life expectancy tend to stay with you for a reasonable period of your lifetime. They develop a sense of belongingness to your home as they are super loyal.
Those that come with a beard are even more adorable, and cuddling with them makes life a little less difficult. They comfort you in unknown ways, adding a lot of love and joy to your life.
