What Is the Longest Living Dog Breed?

Introduction

“What dog breed lives the longest?” is a common question among dog lovers. Around the world, certain breeds are renowned for their overall health and impressive longevity, often measured by their life expectancy. While the average dog typically lives between 10 and 13 years, some breeds are known to live 16, 18, or even longer.

From Toy Poodles and Chihuahuas to Australian Cattle Dogs, this guide explores 22 of the longest-living dog breeds worldwide. For each breed, we provide an in-depth analysis of their physical characteristics, common health concerns, and typical lifespan. We focus on breeds with an average lifespan exceeding 10–13 years, also highlighting those known to frequently surpass their expected longevity.

22 Longest Living Dog Breeds

Chihuahua

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Chihuahuas come in two coat types: long and smooth. They make excellent lapdogs and are wonderful companions for families with children, individual owners, and seniors alike. Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are bold, alert, and full of personality. They require gentle handling, consistent training, and early socialization to thrive. This breed is often considered one of the highest lifespan dog breeds.

Toy Poodle

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Toy Poodles are intelligent, affectionate, and lively companions, celebrated for their trainability and playful nature. They thrive on human interaction and mental stimulation, making them excellent pets for active families or individuals. Their hypoallergenic coat and ease of training contribute to their widespread popularity.

Disclaimer: The term "hypoallergenic" refers to dog breeds that are less likely to trigger allergic reactions, not breeds that are completely allergy-free. These dogs may shed less, have hair instead of fur, or produce lower levels of dander—all factors that can reduce, but not eliminate, allergic responses in sensitive individuals.

Jack Russell Terrier

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Jack Russell Terriers are energetic, intelligent, and fearless small dogs that were originally bred for hunting. Jack Russells are known for their lively personalities. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Their strong prey drive and bold nature make them better suited for experienced owners. With proper care, Jack Russells are generally healthy and enjoy a long lifespan.

Shih Tzu

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Shih Tzus are affectionate, friendly, and charming lapdogs, celebrated for their loving nature and playful personality. They thrive on companionship and make great pets for families, singles, and seniors alike. Despite their small size, they require daily walks and regular grooming to maintain their long coats. With proper care, Shih Tzus generally enjoy good health and long lifespans.

Miniature Schnauzer

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Miniature Schnauzers are intelligent, spirited, and loyal dogs, recognized for their distinctive bearded appearance and expressive eyebrows. Highly adaptable, they make excellent companions for families, singles, and seniors alike. Their easy trainability and low-shedding coats add to their appeal as pets.

Dachshund

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Dachshunds are bold, affectionate, and playful dogs known for their distinctive long bodies. They make loyal companions, require moderate exercise, and generally enjoy good health when given proper care.

Shiba Inu

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Shiba Inus are an ancient Japanese breed, recognized for their fox-like appearance, independence, and bold personality. They are clean, intelligent, and relatively low-maintenance but require regular exercise and socialization. Their adaptable nature and robust health contribute to their widespread appeal.

Beagle

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Beagles are friendly, curious, and energetic dogs, renowned for their exceptional sense of smell. They are well-suited for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities. To stay happy and well-behaved, Beagles require daily exercise, mental stimulation, and plenty of companionship.

Australian Cattle Dog

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Australian Cattle Dogs are intelligent, energetic, and hardworking dogs primarily bred for herding livestock. They thrive with active owners who can provide plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation. Loyal and protective, these dogs require firm training, ample space to run, and purposeful daily activities to stay happy and well-balanced.

Bichon Frise

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Bichon Frises are one of the longest living dog breeds. These cheerful, hypoallergenic fluffballs are ideal for families or apartment living. They require regular grooming and light exercise. Their affectionate nature, playful spirit, and charming appearance make them especially popular with allergy-prone owners.

Papillon

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Papillons are beautiful dogs named for their distinctive butterfly-like ears. Known for their friendliness toward other animals, including cats. They have a rich history as companions to French royalty such as Louis XIV and Queen Marie Antoinette. Graceful, alert, and intelligent, Papillons have won the hearts of families and agility enthusiasts alike. Their smart and eager-to-please nature makes training relatively easy. Energetic by nature, they require 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Maltese

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The Maltese breed originated thousands of years ago on the Isle of Malta, where they were initially bred for pestcontrol. While they have low exercise needs, their thick, luxurious coat requires regular grooming. Known for their gentle and affectionate nature, Maltese dogs are intelligent and make loving companions, especially with children.

Yorkshire Terrier

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Yorkies make excellent pets for city and apartment dwellers due to their moderate exercise needs. Their small size also allows them to get sufficient exercise indoors, making them the ultimate lapdogs. Yorkies have a feisty yet friendly nature. When socialized early, they typically get along well with other dogs and children. However, they are known to be challenging to housetrain. Yorkies are also one of the longest living dog breeds.

Lhasa Apso

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The Lhasa Apso is an ancient breed that originated in Tibet nearly a thousand years ago. Known for their keen intelligence, acute hearing, and deep bark, these dogs have a strong instinct for distinguishing friends from strangers. Originally bred as watchdogs for Tibetan monasteries, Lhasa Apsos are naturally alert and protective of their loved ones.

Pomeranian

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Pomeranians, affectionately known as Poms, are fluffy little dogs with a signature powder-puff coat. Despite their small size, they are surprisingly sturdy and well-built. Poms come in a variety of colors, including red, black, chocolate, and orange. Lively, outgoing, bold, and intelligent, they have big personalities packed into small frames. These charming dogs make excellent companions for individuals, families, and seniors alike. Regular grooming is essential to keep their luxurious coats looking their best.

Chinese Crested

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Chinese Crested dogs come in two varieties: Hairless and Powderpuff. The Hairless variety is more popular, known for its soft, human-like skin and tufts of hair on the head, feet, and tail. Chinese Cresteds make excellent family pets—they are playful, affectionate, and thrive as cheerful lapdogs with big personalities. However, the Hairless variety is prone to skin issues such as acne and sunburn, so extra care is needed to protect their skin.

Miniature Pinscher

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The Miniature Pinscher, affectionately known as the Min Pin, is often called the “King of Toys” by enthusiasts. This German breed was originally developed to hunt vermin, particularly rats, which explains their high energy levels. Min Pins require an active owner who can provide at least an hour of daily exercise. Though they resemble miniature Dobermans, they are a distinct breed and, like their larger lookalikes, make excellent watchdogs. However, their strong-willed nature means they benefit from consistent, firm training.

Affenpinscher

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Affenpinschers can make good family dogs, but they require early socialization with children and other pets. Independent by nature, they may be somewhat challenging to train. They have low grooming needs and shed moderately. Due to their friendly and outgoing temperament, Affenpinschers are not well-suited as watchdogs or guard dogs—they tend to see everyone as a friend.

Australian Shepherd

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Beautiful, intelligent, and highly versatile, the Australian Shepherd makes a fantastic companion for active individuals and busy families. These dogs require plenty of exercise and regular grooming to stay healthy and happy. They don’t tolerate being left alone for long periods and thrive when they’re close to their owners.

Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless)

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The Mexican Hairless, or Xoloitzcuintli, is an ancient breed native to Mexico, best known for its hairless body. While this unique feature makes them stand out, it also leaves them prone to sunburn and other skin issues. Xolos have a calm, loyal, and affectionate temperament, making them excellent pets for first-time dog owners. They don’t require much exercise but do need consistent skincare to stay healthy.

Samoyed

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Samoyeds are Spitz-type dogs known for their stunning white coats and signature “Sammie smile.” Originally bred for hunting and pulling sleds in cold climates, they are affectionate and family-friendly companions. Intelligent and eager to please, Samoyeds respond well to training but benefit most from experienced owners who can provide consistent guidance.

Portuguese Podengo

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Podengo dogs were originally bred for hunting rabbits, which explains their high energy levels and strong prey drive. As a result, they require at least an hour of exercise each day to stay physically and mentally stimulated. While intelligent, they can be independent and sometimes stubborn, making consistent and patient training essential.

Why Do Some Dogs Live Longer Than Others?

Several factors influence why some dogs live longer than others, with size being one of the most significant. In general, smaller breeds tend to outlive large or giant breeds. For example, tiny dogs like Chihuahuas often live 14–16 years, whereas giant breeds such as Great Danes may only live 6–8 years. The increased strain on the heart, joints, and organs from carrying a larger body contributes to the shorter lifespans of big dogs.

Genetics and breeding practices also play a crucial role. Purebred dogs from irresponsible breeding programs—especially those prone to inherited health issues—may have reduced longevity. In contrast, mixed-breed dogs often benefit from hybrid vigor, a phenomenon where genetic diversity reduces the risk of certain hereditary diseases, potentially leading to longer, healthier lives.

Lifestyle and Preventative Care

A balanced, nutritious diet specifically formulated for dogs helps maintain a healthy weight and supports vital organ function. Combined with regular exercise, it can significantly extend a dog’s lifespan. Physical activity keeps the heart, muscles, and joints strong while helping prevent obesity-related illnesses. Routine veterinary checkups enable early detection and treatment of health issues, further supporting long-term well-being. Altogether, proper care, diet, and preventive measures play a vital role in improving a dog’s lifespan and overall quality of life.

Longest Living Dog: World Records

Bluey, an Australian Cattle Dog, is considered the oldest living dog as per the Guinness Book of World Records. He was 29 years and 5 months old before being euthanized in 1939. Genetics, diet, and lifestyle contributed to his long life. He even inspired a kids’ TV show.

The oldest Chihuahua on record is Spike, who entered the Guinness Book of World Records at the age of 23 in December 2022. His owner, Rita Kimball, emphasizes the importance of a healthy diet, room to roam, daily exercise, and lots of love and attention. 

The oldest Shih Tzu recorded was Smokey, who lived to be 23. He was from Florida. The longest living Shiba Inu on record reached the age of 26 years in 2010. The oldest known Toy Poodle on record was Uncle Chichi, who lived to be an estimated 24 to 26 years old. His owners did not have his original birth records, so his exact age isn’t known. The oldest Jack Russell Terrier on record was named Willie, who lived to be 20 years old in 2014.

Conclusion

If you are still wondering, “What dog breed lives the longest?” we hope this guide has given you helpful insights. Bringing a dog into your life means welcoming a loyal companion, and it’s natural to wish for many happy years together. While genetics and breeding play a role in a dogs lifespan, the care you provide is just as important. With proper nutrition, regular exercise, mental enrichment, and plenty of love, you can help your furry friend live a long, healthy, and joyful life. We hope this list of 22 long-living breeds inspires you to find the perfect companion for a lifetime of memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What dog breed has the longest life span?

Chihuahuas, Bichon Frises, Dachshunds, Australian Cattle Dogs, Shih Tzus, and Toy Poodles are among the breeds known for their long lifespans.

What large dogs tend to have the longest lifespan?

Among large breeds, Alaskan Malamutes, Doberman Pinschers, and Standard Poodles are known to live relatively long lives, often reaching 10–14 years. Genetics, diet, exercise, and regular veterinary care all play a major role in extending a large dog’s lifespan.

Is there any dog breed that could live 40 years?

Currently, no dog breed has been recorded to live up to 40 years. Most dogs live between 10 and 13 years on average. Generally, smaller breeds tend to live longer than larger breeds.

Reference List

1. https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&catId=254091&id=8814015

2. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/acute-caudal-myopathy-limber-tail

3. https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Living/meet-23-year-chihuahua-named-worlds-oldest-dog/story?id=96561192#:~:text=A%2023%2Dyear%2Dold%20chihuahua,years%20and%207%20days%20old.

4. https://www.today.com/news/old-toy-poodle-chichi-dies-24-or-maybe-26-wbna46123108