A dog’s lifespan largely depends on its genetics and lifestyle. As a rule of thumb, small dogs live longer than larger breeds. Some medium-sized dogs also have long lifespans. Longest living dog breeds often reach their late teens or sometimes even early 20s.
The American Kennel Club mentions that small size within a species is associated with slower aging. Similarly, dogs that are overweight or obese are more likely to have shorter lives than those at ideal body weight.
Another important thing to mention is that as the dog grows old, its steps grow shaky and severe illness or injury surfaces out of the blue. Some medical conditions become hard to manage in larger dogs, thus leading to euthanasia sooner.
Have a look at the top dog breeds boasting the greatest longevity.
Top Dog Breeds Boasting the Greatest Longevity
1. Toy Poodle
The smallest of all three Poodle varieties, Toy Poodles are extremely intelligent and highly trainable dogs. Toy Poodles are one of the healthiest dog breeds, having an average life expectancy of 10 to 18 years. During their long life, they are predisposed to some health issues.
These may include progressive retinal atrophy, patellar luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes, and ear infections. To reduce the risk of such problems, consider purchasing your Toy Poodle from a reputable breeder. Also consider investing in pet insurance early in their life, suggests PetMD.
Toy Poodles are active and athletic dogs who need plenty of exercise every day for mental and physical stimulation. They are always up for all kinds of activity and enjoy keeping busy. Poodles make excellent swimmers and have an instinct to retrieve.
These agile dogs excel at a variety of dog sports like obedience and tracking. Toy Poodles are excellent water retrievers and like participating in dock diving and retriever hunt tests.
2. Chihuahua
One of the smallest dog breeds, Chihuahuas are charming, graceful, and sassy dogs. Chihuahuas are loved by city dwellers due to their compact size and confident personalities. These alert and amusing little dogs are among the oldest dog breeds in the world.
Like most other small dogs, Chihuahuas are the longest living dog breeds. They are generally healthy canines, but may be affected by some genetic diseases. Some health issues that can affect a Chihuahua include patellar luxation, eye disease, and heart disease.
Having an affectionate nature, these furry friends can stay with you for 14 to 16 years. Chihuahuas love to run and play, and can usually get adequate exercise in a very small space. These little dogs are very intelligent and eager to please, and they respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.
Do You Know? Spike, a Chihuahua mix from Camden, Ohio holds world record for the oldest living dog. It was around 23 year old in December, 2022.
3. Dachshund
Originally bred to hunt badgers, Dachshunds are also known as sausage dogs or wiener dogs. They are instantly recognizable due to their long bodies, floppy ears, and short legs. Dachshunds typically have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.
They are one of the longest living dog breeds. Dachshunds are generally healthy, but their long backs make them prone to certain health conditions, including intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), obesity, luxating patella, deafness, and epilepsy.
Do You Know? A Dachshund named Rocky lived up to 25 years, making it the oldest Dachshund of all time.
Dachshunds are friendly dogs, a good choice for first-time pet parents. They enjoy mental challenges like puzzle games or scent-tracking games. Dachshunds have a spunky temperament, which means their play sessions with children should be strictly supervised.
4. Miniature Pinscher
Miniature Pinschers are small dogs with a long lifespan. They have a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years. Min Pins are robust and healthy dogs. Despite having good overall health, they can suffer from some common health issues.
Miniature Pinschers become vulnerable to patellar luxation, epilepsy, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. Providing proper nutrition and regular exercise can significantly increase your dog’s life expectancy. These fearless and spirited dogs make excellent family pets with proper training and socialization.
Min Pins are often nicknamed the ‘King of Toys.’ These fun-loving dogs are instantly recognizable by their lustrous coat and compact wedge-shaped physique. Min Pins are smart dogs who love their families. But they also have an independent streak.
These active and athletic dogs need daily physical and mental stimulation to stay fit. Min Pins enjoy relaxing on the sofa with their owners, but are equally eager to go outside.
5. Maltese
Having an average lifespan between 12 and 15 years, the Maltese also make it to our list of the longest living dog breeds. These exceptionally healthy small dogs thrive on companionship and make great family pets due to their loyal and affectionate nature.
Maltese are small white dogs, loved for their luxurious hypoallergenic coats. They need lots of grooming to keep their coat clean and tangle-free. Like all other small breeds, Maltese also have a few health concerns.
They are susceptible to luxating patellas, patent ductus arteriosus, liver shunts, and dental problems. Maltese are playful dogs who need only a few daily walks and indoor play sessions to fulfill their exercise needs.
Despite their small size, Maltese dogs are very smart and can learn complicated tricks in only a few repetitions. A bored or lonely dog can exhibit destructive behaviors like excessive barking.
6. Yorkshire Terrier
These feisty little dogs are known for their lively and playful personalities and silky, floor-length coats. Another small breed, the Yorkshire Terrier, has a long lifespan of around 11 to 15 years. They were originally bred as ratters, but now make wonderful family pets.
According to Purina, it is a ‘huge dog in a small body.’ Yorkshire Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but they do have their share of medical issues. Like other small breeds, they are at a higher risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), dental disease, and patellar luxation.
Yorkies need only moderate exercise every day to stay healthy and content. It can include walks with their owners at a steady pace and occasional short bursts of activity. Yorkies excel at various dog sports like agility or obedience.
7. Shih Tzu
With its name literally translating to ‘little lions,’ the Shih Tzu is one of the smallest dog breeds out there. They are popular for their hypoallergenic coats and love for companionship. Originally bred to be house companions, these sturdy dogs live between 10 and 18 years.
They don’t suffer from many health problems other than skin limitations. Their big eyes are also vulnerable to dust, sun, and wind. Shih Tzus are social butterflies who get along nicely with everyone, including kids, other pets, and even strangers.
Shih Tzus are brachycephalic. They cannot tolerate excessive heat or over-exercise due to their short muzzles. Regular vet check-ups and purchasing the dog from a responsible breeder can significantly help overcome the problem.
Conclusion
While larger dog breeds usually have shorter life expectancies, small breeds often boast the greatest longevity. A dog’s lifespan significantly relies on its size, lifestyle, genetics, and metabolism. Small dogs are less vulnerable to canine disorders compared to large dogs.
All dogs become vulnerable to health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, allergies, and eye problems as they age. Over time, their brain and cardiovascular health may also begin to deteriorate.
Remember, you can enhance your dog’s lifespan by providing regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper veterinary care.
