Small dogs can stay by your side for years. Let’s pick wisely.
If you’ve ever loved a dog, you already know the deal. They don’t just live in your home. They move into your heart, claim your spot on the couch, and somehow make boring days feel lighter.
So yeah, when you choose a small dog, “How long do they live?” is not a cold question. It’s a love question.
And here’s the best part! Many small breeds often live longer than big dogs. Not always, of course. Life is life. But small bodies often age a bit slower, and they can do really well with good care.
This Blog is about small breeds that are known for long lifespans. I’ll also share what makes each one special, not just “they live long.” Because you’re not picking a calendar. You’re picking a buddy.
Longest Living Small Dog Breeds for a Lifetime of Joy
1. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are tiny, but they have main character energy. They bond hard with their person, like “I will follow you to the bathroom” hard. That closeness matters because many Chihuahua owners notice they stay bright and alert well into older age.
According to the AKC, they are often known for living a long time, with many reaching the mid to late teens. Some even push close to 20 with steady care. Sounds crazy, right? The big wins for this breed are simple routines, healthy weight, and consistent dental care.
Here’s the good part. Chihuahuas do not need a huge space to thrive. They do need warmth, safety, and gentle training. They can be brave to the point of being rude, so teach calm habits early. A calm Chihuahua is still bold, just less chaotic.
Small body, long game
Keep them warm. They get chilly fast.
Protect the knees and joints with safe jumping rules.
Brush teeth often. Tiny mouths get dental trouble easily.
Watch for coughing or breathing strain, and call your vet early.
2. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are little cuddle pros. They were made for companionship, and they act like it. They love laps, soft blankets, and being near their people. This breed is often known for a long lifespan, with many living well into their teens.
But wait, there’s more! Shih Tzus can be surprisingly playful. They will bounce around the living room, then pass out like they worked a full shift. That balance is helpful for long-term health because you can keep them active without turning life into a marathon.
It gets even worse, though, if you ignore heat. Shih Tzus have short faces, and many can struggle more in hot weather. So the “long life” plan here is not fancy. Keep them cool, keep their coat cared for, and keep breathing comfort in mind.
A happy Shih Tzu aging plan
Avoid hot walks. Choose cooler times of day.
Keep grooming steady to prevent skin issues and matting.
Choose gentle play that does not overheat them.
If they snore a lot or tire fast, ask your vet about airflow.
3. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies are tiny, but they do not act tiny. They walk like they own the street. They are bold, curious, and a little dramatic, in the funniest way. If you want a small dog that stays lively for years, this breed often fits the vibe.
Yorkies commonly have long lifespans, with many living into the teens. Their long life story is usually best when they stay lean, keep moving, and get dental care. Small terriers can be tough little cookies, but their teeth can be a weak spot.
Here’s the good part. Yorkies love brain games. Teach tricks, hide treats, and do short training sessions. Mental play helps older dogs stay sharp. And since Yorkies can be loud, training also keeps your neighbors from plotting your downfall.
Tiny terrier, smart choices
Brush teeth often. Dental issues are common in small dogs.
Use a harness, not a collar, to reduce throat strain.
Keep jumps low to protect knees.
Give daily “brain snacks” like puzzle toys and training.
4. Pomeranian
Pomeranians look like little fluff clouds with opinions. They are cheerful, alert, and often very people-focused. Many Pom owners say the dog feels like a tiny hype buddy who claps for your existence.
PetMD notes that Poms are also known for long lifespans, often reaching the teens. The simple stuff helps most. Keep your weight healthy, keep exercising daily, and keep grooming consistently. A Pom’s coat is not just “cute.” It’s part of comfort, skin health, and temperature balance.
But why bother with that? Because a long life is usually built on boring habits. A Pom that stays fit is less likely to struggle with joint strain. And careful handling matters too, since they are small and can get hurt by rough jumps or clumsy falls.
The Pom longevity checklist
Keep them lean. Extra weight can make everything harder.
Brush coat to prevent mats that tug on skin.
Use ramps or steps for couches and beds.
Watch for knee issues or limping and act fast.
5. Maltese
The Maltese is soft, sweet, and surprisingly brave. They often look like delicate little toys, but they can be confident and spunky. They also tend to bond closely with their people, which makes them amazing “life friends” for the long haul.
As per WebMD, this breed is often listed among long-living small dogs, with many reaching the teens. A big part of the Maltese success is steady care that stays gentle. Their small size makes them easier to keep active indoors, but you still want daily movement and mental play.
And here’s the best part! Maltese dogs often fit well into many lifestyles. They can be happy in apartments, and they usually do not need intense exercise. The key is regular grooming, clean teeth, and simple routines they can count on.
Little habits that add years
Brush and trim hair around the eyes to avoid irritation.
Keep teeth clean. Small breeds often need extra dental help.
Stick to steady meal portions to prevent weight gain.
Use reward-based training. They respond well to kindness.
6. Dachshund
Dachshunds are long, low, and full of attitude. They are curious, funny, and stubborn in a way that makes you laugh and sigh at the same time. If you like a dog with personality for days, you’ll probably love this one.
Dachshunds are known for living into the teens, and it’s not rare to meet one older than 15. But here’s the good part and the serious part, together. Their long backs are both their signature and their risk. Back problems can show up, especially if they jump a lot or carry extra weight.
So the long-life plan is clear. Keep them lean. Protect the spine. Build safe movement habits early. Sounds boring, but it’s actually love. You are basically saying, “I want you with me longer, buddy.”
Protect that famous back.
No repeated jumping off high furniture. Use ramps.
Keep nails trimmed for stable footing.
Do steady walks, not wild “stairs marathons.”
Watch for back pain signs like sudden yelps or refusing stairs.
7. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are little cotton balls of joy. They are friendly, social, and often eager to please. If you want a small dog that feels like a walking mood boost, the Bichon is a strong pick.
They are also known for long lifespans. Their “secret sauce” is often their steady temperament and trainability. A dog that is easier to train is easier to keep safe, active, and mentally engaged over many years.
But wait, there’s more! Bichons also tend to do well with fun routines. Short walks, play sessions, trick training, and cuddle time. That mix keeps them fit without feeling like a chore. Grooming is a big deal, though. A clean coat and healthy skin can prevent a lot of discomfort as they age.
The Bichon happy-life routine
Regular grooming to avoid matting and skin trouble.
Daily play for fitness without overdoing it.
Keep training going, even when they are older.
Watch for allergies or itching and get help early.
Conclusion
Life with furry friends is the best kind of chaos, honestly. Across different dog breeds, a long-lived breed usually gets there through simple habits: regular exercise and mental stimulation that keep dogs bright and happy.
A proper diet matters too, so aim for a high-quality diet with healthy fats and proper nutrition. That kind of balanced diet can be a game-changer, because a balanced diet helps a healthier life and longer dog lives.
Some other dog breeds like Border Collie, Lhasa Apso, Russell Terrier, Australian Cattle Dog, Toy Poodle, prove to be gentle companions with pure charm.
