When choosing a dog, longevity is a key consideration for anyone hoping to share decades of companionship. While every dog brings love and joy, certain breeds are known for their impressive lifespans, often reaching 15 years or more.
These long-lived breeds allow pet parents to enjoy a lasting bond filled with years of adventures, cuddles, and memories. Longevity in dogs is influenced by genetics, size, and overall health. Smaller breeds often live longer than larger ones, while certain mixed breeds benefit from hybrid vigor.
Beyond health, lifestyle, diet, and regular veterinary care play essential roles in extending a dog’s life. Choosing a breed known for longevity increases the likelihood of enjoying those extra years together.
Here, we’ll explore the healthiest dog breeds most likely to stick with you for the long haul. From sprightly small companions to robust, long-living family dogs, these breeds combine personality, affection, and resilience, ensuring a lifetime of joy.
If you’re looking for the best dog breed that will be by your side for many years, this list will help you find the perfect long-term companion.
Quick Insight: Some small- to medium-sized breeds often live 12–20+ years, making them some of the long life dog companions.
Dog Breed Choices for the Longest Years by Your Side
1. Dachshund
Life expectancy: 12-16 years
Meet the Dachshund, affectionately known as the “wiener dog,” a name that perfectly describes their long, low-slung bodies—but don’t let their short legs fool you. These little sausages of joy are full of muscle, energy, and a surprisingly fearless spirit.
Originally bred to hunt badgers (yes, actual badgers!), they’ve traded in underground burrows for couch snuggles and family adventures—but that daring streak still peeks through.
Dachshunds are more than just a quirky silhouette; they’re packed with personality. Think playful mischief, a nose for trouble, and a heart big enough to love every member of the family.
PetMD noted first-time pet parents, rejoice! These dogs are smart, affectionate, and thrive on mental challenges—whether it’s puzzle toys, scent-tracking games, or simply figuring out how to sneak onto the bed without you noticing.
But here’s the catch: those charming elongated spines need careful handling. High jumps, rough play, or awkward twists can lead to back injuries, especially as they age. Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a real concern, so keep stairs, couches, and excessive games in check.
Despite their delicate backs, Dachshunds are loyal companions who’ll stick by your side for 12 to 16 years—or, in Dachshund terms, basically forever. Plus, their comic antics, endless curiosity, and big personality in a small package make every day feel like a hilarious adventure.
2. Rat Terrier
Average lifespan: 13–18 years
If you’re looking for a pint-sized package of energy, smarts, and personality, the Rat Terrier might just be your perfect lifelong sidekick. These little furballs may be small, but don’t let that fool you—they were bred to hunt vermin, and they’ve still got that sharp, can-do attitude.
Think of them as the four-legged version of a Swiss Army knife: smart, quick, and ready for anything. Rat Terriers are playful, loyal, and endlessly curious.
They thrive on activity and mental challenges, so puzzle toys, agility courses, or a game of fetch in the backyard will keep them happy and fairly healthy.
But beware: boredom is their kryptonite. A Rat Terrier left to twiddle its paws can turn into a mischievous mastermind—chewed shoes, shredded pillows, or mysteriously missing socks are all par for the course.
The best part? These dogs are long-term companions. With a life expectancy of 13–18 years, Rat Terriers are in it for the long haul. They’re adaptable enough to thrive in both country farms and city apartments, and their affectionate, people-loving nature means they’ll happily curl up on your lap after a long day of adventures.
In short: small in size, huge in personality, and built to stick around for nearly two decades of love, laughter, and occasional chaos. The Rat Terrier isn’t just a pet—it’s a lifelong partner in crime… literally and figuratively.
3. Chihuahua
Life expectancy: 14-16 years
Don’t let their pint-sized stature fool you—Chihuahuas are little dynamos with personalities way bigger than their bodies. Hailing from Mexico, they hold the title of the world’s smallest dog breed, but in terms of loyalty, courage, and sass, they’re absolute giants.
Chihuahuas are the ultimate lap dogs, devoted to their families and happiest when snuggled close. Their small size makes them incredibly portable—WebMD says even calls them “purse dogs,” because yes, you can take them almost anywhere (just don’t forget they still expect VIP treatment!).
They’re alert, lively, and sometimes a little sassy, giving off a vibe that says: “I may be tiny, but I run this household.” This breed thrives in calm, comfortable homes and is surprisingly flexible—basically, they’ll go with the flow as long as that flow keeps them next to you.
While Chihuahuas can be reserved with strangers, their devotion to their humans is unmatched. Plus, their hardy nature makes them one of the healthiest small breeds, though like all dogs, they can face health issues like heart disease or patellar luxation over the years.
In short: pocket-sized, heart-full, and brimming with character, Chihuahuas offer up to 16 years of feisty companionship, love, and unforgettable personality—proof that good things really do come in small packages.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
Life expectancy: 12–15 years
Miniature Schnauzers may be small, but they’re big on charm, personality, and—of course—beards. Think of them as the tiny, spirited cousins of the Standard and Giant Schnauzers, with the bonus of outliving both.
These scruffy little furballs are equal parts playful, loyal, and endlessly affectionate, making them perfect companions for families, singles, or anyone in need of a four-legged cheerleader.
Minis love a mix of adventure and relaxation: brisk walks around the neighborhood, playful fetch sessions, and cozy cuddle time on the couch. They’re smart dogs, which means they pick up tricks quickly—but it also means they appreciate mental stimulation to avoid getting bored (and perhaps a little mischievous).
Health-wise, a Miniature Schnauzer’s small frame means you’ll need to keep an eye on their diet to prevent obesity or diabetes mellitus. They can also be prone to conditions like Schnauzer comedo syndrome and pancreatitis, so routine vet care is a must.
With proper attention, though, these bearded buddies will stick by your side for up to 15 years, providing love, laughs, and more personality per pound than almost any other breed.
5. Shih Tzu
Average life expectancy: 10-18 years
Meet the Shih Tzu: a little bundle of joy with a personality as luxurious as their flowing coat. These affectionate dogs, outgoing and gentle companions, have a zest for life that makes every day feel brighter.
Whether it’s a lively play session or curling up for some serious lap time, Shih Tzus know how to balance fun and relaxation like true royalty. Shih Tzus love being near their humans and thrive on attention, making them perfect for families, singles, or anyone in need of a tiny, cheerful sidekick.
Despite their regal appearance and sometimes pampered reputation, they’re playful and spirited, always ready to charm with a wag, wiggle, or mischievous glint in their eye.
Health-wise, their adorable squished faces (hello, brachycephalic charm!) can make them prone to breathing issues and overheating, so care and vigilance are important. But with the right attention, these pint-sized dynamos can live a long, happy life—sometimes all the way to 18 years.
In short: small in size, huge in heart, and oozing personality, Shih Tzus are the little royals of the dog world—ready to rule your heart (and maybe your lap) for years to come.
6. Papillon
Life expectancy: 14-16 years
With a name that literally means “butterfly” in French, the Papillon is as graceful and charming as it sounds. Their signature wispy ear fur flutters like delicate wings, making them one of the most visually enchanting small breeds—but don’t let their dainty appearance fool you.
Papillons are energetic, intelligent, and endlessly eager to please, which makes them both a joy to train and a delightful companion for almost any household.
These little dynamos are social butterflies in every sense of the word. Britannica noted they get along beautifully with other dogs, pets, and humans of all ages—whether it’s playful kids or serene seniors, everyone earns a little Papillon love. Their small size and gentle demeanor make them perfect lap buddies after a day full of activity.
While fairly healthy pups, Papillons do require some routine care. Keep an eye on dental health and watch for luxating patellas, but with a little attention, these tiny treasures can live a long, vibrant life.
In short: delicate in appearance, mighty in heart, and endlessly affectionate, Papillons bring 14 to 16 years of joy, charm, and butterfly-wing elegance to your life.
7. Lhasa Apso
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
With a coat so long it practically sweeps the floor, the Lhasa Apso might look like a walking mop—but don’t let that fool you. These little furballs are full of personality, loyalty, and a surprisingly strong sense of duty.
Originally bred as watchdogs in Tibetan monasteries and palaces, Lhasa Apsos have traded guarding ancient halls for guarding your heart (and sometimes your sofa).
Despite their regal and fluffy appearance, Lhasas are affectionate and love spending time as lap companions. They have a keen eye for detail—okay, maybe more like a keen eye for intruders, squirrels, or the occasional shadow—so they’ll happily alert you if something seems “off.”
Health-wise, their adorable eyes deserve some extra attention. Lhasa Apsos can be prone to cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye, and progressive retinal atrophy, so regular checkups are important to keep their vision sharp.
In short: small, fluffy, and endlessly loyal, Lhasa Apsos are a charming mix of watchdog and snuggle buddy—ready to stick by your side for up to 15 years of love, laughs, and floor-sweeping elegance.
Conclusion
For dog lovers seeking dog breed choices for the longest years by your side, breeds such as Australian Cattle Dogs, Yorkshire Terriers, Toy Poodles, Toy Fox Terriers, Maltese Dogs, Jack Russell Terriers, Bichon Frise, and Shiba Inu stand out. These energetic dogs and small dogs are among the relatively healthy breeds, generally maintaining a healthy weight, balanced diet, and benefiting from regular exercise, basic training, and proper grooming.
Providing mental stimulation, healthy fats, and routine veterinary care helps ensure they enjoy a long life, remain dog-friendly, and continue being great family pets. With proper care, weight management, and a fulfilling life, these longest living breeds offer companionship and joy for many years, making them perfect furry friends for active households.
