Small doesn’t always mean “delicate” when it comes to determining a dog’s health and longevity. While some large dogs tend to live for a short life span, many small dog breeds have a great life expectancy. So, if you’re wondering how long your partnership with your little furball lasts, you should worry less.
Life is unpredictable for both humans and animals; individual health, living situation, diet, and genes matter a lot. Another important aspect in determining any dog’s health is whether or not the breeder took care of ethical practices.
All things considered, these toy dogs live longer in general if they’re taken good care of.
Toy Dog Breeds with Long Lifespan
1. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are fluff balls with dense white coats that make them look literally like stuffed toys. These heart-melting pups live 14-15 years and are a generally healthy dog breed, as per PetMD.
These walking clouds on earth are one of the most popular small breeds adopted as family pets. They’re very portable and apartment-friendly dogs with a height of 9.5-11.5 inches and a weight range of 12-18 pounds.
These little dogs are prone to some health concerns like diabetes, eye problems, dental disease, and bladder issues, but normally they live a healthy life if taken good care of. It’s important to take care of their diet and physical activity to prevent obesity.
2. Pug
Pugs are fascinating little dogs with a short but muscular body that makes them look unique. They’re one of the oldest dog breeds and can be traced back to China, and have been cherished by royals. These small dogs have an average life expectancy of 13-15 years.
Pugs are a very friendly and loyal breed that love to keep the attention of their owners all to themselves. They’re social in nature and love to please their pet owners with their comical tactics. These tiny dogs have a distinct wrinkly face that makes them too adorable to handle.
Despite being a healthy breed, Pugs are brachycephalic dogs, which can cause some challenges for their health. Being brachycephalic means that they have a flat face, tiny muzzle, and narrow nostrils and airways; these can cause some breathing issues and loud snoring.
They’re better suited indoors and make loving lapdogs. Expect some random bursts of energy, and some level of physical activity is important for these little dogs as well. Routine veterinary care is always recommended, no matter what dog you own.
3. Chinese Crested
Chinese Crested dogs are quite unique in appearance, with their generally hairless bodies, though sometimes they have a little silky hair on their heads. They can be mistaken for toy poodles at times, though when it comes to personality, they don’t fall behind.
While any dog’s life expectancy depends on its individual health and genes, Chinese Cresteds are normally one of the longest living breeds (13-18 years). So, buckle up for a long, fun-filled, loving partnership with your pup.
They’re very intelligent and spirited in nature and make great family pets. They are good at picking up their owners’ moods and will be happier to see you doing well, as per WebMD.
As they’re normally hairless, applying sunscreen when taking them outside in the sun is a good practice. There’s also a hairy variety of Chinese Crested, namely “powderpuff”; this type has medium-length, silky hair. They’re decent around kids and other dogs, but it’s better to keep an eye on them.
A little daily activity is enough to keep them at their healthy weight. They’re prone to some health issues like eye conditions, idiopathic epilepsy, and patellar luxation.
4. Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons, or Griffs, are known for their compact size and big personality. This toy breed thrives on its human’s attention and companionship, and hates being left alone. They have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years and enjoy a loving, long life with their pet parents.
With their fluffy coat and expressive eyes, Griffs can make you fall in love in minutes. They’re 7 to 10 inches tall with a weight of 6 to 12 pounds, and make amazing apartment pets. They’re very sensitive in nature and can become borderline stubborn.
They’re moderately energetic dogs and generally live healthy lives; like all breeds, they’re also predisposed to some health problems. Watch out for hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and Syringomyelia (cavities in the spine) in your Griff.
5. Papillon
Papillons are bred from toy Spaniels and are feisty and very friendly dogs. As one of the longest living dog breeds, these pups have a long lifespan of 14 to 16 years.
These tiny canines have a big history under their belt. They can be traced all the way back to the Renaissance era and have been the choice of royalty and aristocracy. Their luxurious hair, especially on their head, gives them their butterfly-like look, which explains their name as well.
They’re a healthy breed, but proper care and regular visits are important to ensure their good health. They need a proper diet as they’re susceptible to low blood sugar.
6. Pekingese
Pekingese are one of the most popular toy dog breeds, recognizable for their long, silky hair that deserves to win pageants. These cute canines have a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years and generally have a great health.
Pekingese were originally bred to be the companions of Chinese royals and to reside in palaces with them. Their lion-like mane surely gives them a regal look, making them one of the most gorgeous toy breeds.
They are no taller than 6-9 inches, and can weigh up to 14 pounds. These pups live a happy life with their owners in apartments as well as larger homes. Pekingese are a devoted breed with a calm nature and need only moderate regular exercise.
7. Miniature Schnauzer
With their fluffy coats, bearded faces, and thoughtful expressions, it’s hard to believe that Miniature Schnauzers were bred from ancient German dogs that were used to pull sleds. These active and fun-loving pups are friendly and devoted, with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.
Minis are upbeat and charming pets that won’t let a moment of your time with them feel dull. They’re great apartment pets and adapt to urban life amazingly. These spunky pups make amazing lapdogs but also need their mental stimulation and playtime.
Minis are bright-headed, alert dogs, so they’ll keep an eye on any neighborhood activity they might find suspicious. This can trigger some barking from them, especially when they see a stranger like a postman, delivery guys, or literally any newcomer.
Minis are wire-haired and need regular grooming. This can include regular trimming, brushing, and bathing.
Conclusion
Having a vibrant, toy dog around can be the most joyful experience of your life. Small dogs can enchant your family members and friends equally with their cute looks and entertaining demeanor.
Make sure to know what specific diet and healthcare needs your pets have to make sure they stay with you for years to come.
