Dog Longevity by Breed: Breeds with the Longest Life Expectancy

Dogs are living longer than ever before, with some breeds outliving others by a significant margin. The Maltese, for instance, can live up to 12-15 years.

Their longevity is due in part to their small size, which puts less strain on their bodies. This is in contrast to larger breeds, which can have shorter lifespans.

Some breeds, like the Poodle, can live up to 15 years or more with proper care and attention. Their intelligence and trainability also play a role in their longevity.

The Poodle's lifespan is also influenced by their low-shedding coat, which requires regular grooming but can help prevent health issues.

Medium-sized dogs like border collies and Australian shepherds typically live between 10 to 13 years.

However, there are some exceptions, and Dr. Honnas notes that some breeds can live longer than that. For example, the second-oldest dog on record was an Australian cattle dog named Bluey, who lived to a ripe old age of 29.

Here's a rough guide to some average lifespans of dog breeds in the UK:

Chihuahuas are one of the longest living dog breeds, living an average of 15 to 20 years. Some Chihuahuas can live up to 20 years, like the recorded case of 'megabyte'. They are full of spirit, bold and intelligent. These tiny dogs are extremely devoted to their people, especially kids. Chihuahua requires only a little exercise due to their small body size. A healthy lifestyle and good veterinary care can greatly impact a Chihuahua's lifespan.

Big dogs, like German shepherds and Great Danes, live an average of 8 to 12 years.

Dogs that weigh more than 50 pounds generally have shorter lifespans.

Medium-size dogs, which weigh between 20 and 50 pounds, can live a decent 10 to 13 years.

Border collies and Australian shepherds are examples of medium breed dogs that fall within this age range.

However, there are exceptions, like the English bulldog, which lives only 8 to 10 years on average due to genetic conditions.

The second-oldest dog on record was actually a medium breed, an Australian cattle dog named Bluey, who lived a remarkable 29 years.

Border Terriers are known for their remarkable longevity, with a median life expectancy of 12 years, which is two years longer than the median life expectancy of all breeds.

The UK's oldest recorded Border Terrier, Alfie, lived to an incredible 17 years old. This is a testament to the breed's overall health and robustness.

If you're considering bringing a Border Terrier into your family, you can expect a long and loving companionship.

Here's a list of average lifespans for some popular breeds in the UK:

These lifespans give you a general idea of what to expect from different breeds. Keep in mind that individual dogs can vary depending on their genetics, lifestyle, and overall health.

The UK dog breed with the longest life expectancy is the Jack Russell Terrier, with an average life expectancy of 12.7 years. According to the Royal Veterinary College, this breed has the longest life expectancy in the UK.

Take a look at this: Longest Lifespan of Dog Breeds

Female dogs tend to live longer than male dogs, with a 4-month difference on average, although in some breeds this difference can be greater. This is a good thing to keep in mind when considering getting a dog.

The smallest breeds, like the Chihuahua, tend to live the longest, with an average life expectancy of 15 to 20 years. This is likely due to their small body size and the fact that they are not prone to serious illnesses.

Here's a list of the top 5 dog breeds with the longest life expectancy in the UK, based on average life expectancy:

Taking good care of your dog is key to increasing their life expectancy. This means getting them from a responsible breeder, providing regular exercise and mental enrichment, and ensuring they receive good dental care and regular vet visits.

Related reading: What Breeds of Dogs Are Good with Cats

Large dogs tend to have shorter lifespans, which seems counterintuitive given that the largest animals in the animal kingdom, like blue whales and elephants, live the longest.

Breed size is a significant factor in determining a dog's lifespan, with smaller breeds generally living longer than larger ones. For example, extra-large breeds like Great Danes and Newfoundlands typically only live about 7-10 years.

Dogs that live the longest are mostly small breeds, which can often reach their late teens or even early 20s, while larger breeds may not live beyond their mid-teens.

The "oldest dog ever" award goes to Bobi, a Portuguese Rafeiro do Alentejo who's 30 years old and counting, highlighting that some dogs can live into their 20s with proper care.

Common medical conditions that develop as dogs age are more difficult to manage in larger breeds, leading to euthanasia sooner, which might be a contributing factor to their shorter lifespans.

Large species, including large-breed dogs, tend to have shorter lifespans. This is counterintuitive, as in the animal kingdom, the largest animals often live the longest.

For more insights, see: Biggest Mixed Breed Dogs

Their rapid growth and development in the first few years of life may lead to increased cellular stress, making them more susceptible to age-related diseases. This means their bodies show signs of wear and tear sooner than smaller, slower-growing animals.

Large dogs are more prone to medical challenges, such as cardiac issues and joint disorders, due to their larger size. Supporting a massive frame exposes them to skeletal issues like hip dysplasia and arthritis.

Inherently, large breeds are more prone to certain medical conditions, placing added strain on their cardiovascular system and leading to potential heart-related problems. This is similar to how obesity affects humans.

Consider reading: Is a Lab a Large Breed Dog

Large breeds are inherently more prone to certain medical conditions, such as cardiac issues and joint disorders, due to their massive frame.

Dogs that live the longest are mostly small breeds, and can often reach their late teens or even early 20s.

On average in the UK, dogs live for 10-13 years, although this can vary depending on breed, type, and size.

Extra-large breeds like Great Danes and Newfoundlands typically only live about 7-10 years.

The "oldest dog ever" award goes to Bobi, a Portuguese Rafeiro do Alentejo who's 30 years old and counting.

Small dogs, on average, live 12 to 15 years, but some have been known to live into their early 20s. A Chihuahua named Spike from Ohio celebrated his 23rd birthday in January 2023, which is a remarkable example of a small dog living a long life.

Chihuahuas are one of the longest-living breeds, with lifespans that can reach 20 years or more. Dr. Honnas notes that Chihuahuas often rank among the longest-living breeds.

Some small breeds, like Chihuahuas and Dachshunds, have a remarkable ability to live long lives. These breeds have been known to outlive their larger counterparts in many cases.

Here's a rough breakdown of the average lifespan of small breeds:

It's worth noting that while small breeds tend to live longer, there are some exceptions, like the French Bulldog, which has a relatively short lifespan of 4.5 years in the UK.

Proper nutrition is key to your dog's longevity. Feed your dog high-quality commercial or home-cooked food, appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Limiting table scraps and not overdoing it with treats is crucial, as pet obesity can cause a number of health problems. Keeping your dog in a healthy weight range for its size and breed is imperative for a long life.

Feeding your dog a healthy diet is crucial for their overall well-being.

Talk to your vet to learn the best diet for your dog, as it will vary depending on their age, size, and activity level.

Limiting table scraps is essential, as overdoing it can lead to pet obesity and related health problems.

Just like in humans, keeping your dog in a healthy weight range for their size and breed is imperative for a long and healthy life.

Regular physical exercise is essential for your dog's overall health and well-being, says Dr. Hsia. It helps maintain a healthy weight, strengthens muscles and joints, improves cardiovascular health, and reduces the risk of obesity-related diseases.

For larger breeds, it's best to avoid taking them running when they're puppies, as it could exacerbate joint issues when they're older. This means finding alternative exercises that are gentle on their joints.

Regular mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise. Engage your dog's brain with interactive toys, puzzles, and training exercises to contribute to a healthier and happier life.

If this caught your attention, see: What Dog Has the Most Health Problems

Mixed and hybrid breeds can be a great choice for dog owners. A 2019 study from the American Animal Hospital Association found that mixed-breed dogs live significantly longer than purebred dogs.

Mixed breeds tend to have fewer health issues due to their broader gene pool. This genetic diversity can contribute to increased overall health and potentially longer lifespans.

Genetic makeup is just one factor that determines a dog's lifespan, but it's an important one.

Australian Cattle Dogs can live up to 16 years, making them a long-lived breed for their size. Their high energy levels and love for outdoor activities mean they need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Border Terriers, on the other hand, are known for their exceptional health and can live for 12 years on average, which is two years longer than the median life expectancy of all breeds.

Australian Cattle Dogs are known for their impressive lifespan, with a range of 12-16 years. They form a strong attachment with their owners, making them loyal companions.

As a working breed, Australian Cattle Dogs are naturally energetic and intelligent, responding well to training. They love being outdoors and having a job to do, whether that's herding or running an agility course.

This breed is hardy, but can develop health issues like progressive retinal atrophy and hip dysplasia as they age. Keeping them active and engaged can help prevent or manage these conditions.

Australian Cattle Dogs can be a bit stubborn at times, making them a challenging but rewarding pet to own. With proper training and care, they can thrive and become loving family members.

The Lhasa Apso is an ancient dog breed originating from Tibet. They were highly regarded as watchdogs in Tibetan palaces and monasteries.

Lhasa Apsos are small in size, but they're lovable and loyal toward their owners. They can get along well with kids due to their calm and gentle nature.

On average, Lhasa Apsos have a long lifespan of 12-14 years. Some of them can live for nearly two decades.

Yorkshire Terriers can live for 14 to 17 years.

They're a lively and curious breed that tends to bark a lot, making them a potential good watchdog.

Yorkies are small in size, but they're not shy about raising their voice, which can be a bit stubborn at times.

Adult Teacup Yorkies weigh only two to four pounds on average.

These tiny terriers are known to be a fairly healthy breed, but they're also prone to some health problems, such as patellar luxation and tracheal collapse.

Toy poodles have a relatively long lifespan, living up to 14 to 18 years with good care.

Their intelligence makes them easy to train, a characteristic they share with other poodles. They thrive on mental and physical stimulation, such as games or brisk walks, just like any other dog.

Border Terriers are a generally very healthy breed with a median life expectancy of 12 years, two years longer than the median life expectancy of all breeds.

Their lifespan is impressive, with some living up to 17 years old, like Alfie, the UK's oldest recorded Border Terrier.

German Shepherds are said to live for an average of 10.16 years, with females generally living longer than males by an average of 1.4 years.

Unfortunately, large dogs like German Shepherds are prone to developing dog arthritis, which results in decreased mobility.

A greater mass means more stress on joints, so keeping your pet at a healthy weight is essential.

Dachshunds get their nickname "wiener dogs" from their lengthy torso.

These dogs are muscular and energetic, originally bred to be badger hunters.

Pet parents need to pay extra attention to their backs as Dachshunds can injure themselves as they get older.

They're also prone to developing intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).

The Maltese is a small, white dog with a long, silky coat that needs daily grooming to prevent tangles.

They are considered "hypoallergenic", making them a great choice for people with allergies.

Maltese typically live for 12-15 years.

Their long coats require regular upkeep to keep them looking their best.

Maltese are generally healthy dogs, so pet parents can focus on grooming rather than managing medical conditions.

However, they can be prone to luxating patellas, liver shunts, and heart defects.

Broaden your view: Are Maltese Hypoallergenic Dogs

Miniature Schnauzers are bearded cuties.

They're the smallest cousins of the Standard Schnauzer and Giant Schnauzer.

Miniature Schnauzers live the longest of the three breeds.

They make great family pets, suitable for indoor snuggle time and neighborhood walks.

These small dogs can develop obesity if not helped to stick to a healthy weight.

They're also prone to diabetes mellitus.

Worth a look: Miniature Boxer Dog Breed

The Parson Russell Terrier, also known as the Jack Russell Terrier, is a lively and energetic breed that requires regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

They have a life expectancy of 13-15 years, which is a significant amount of time to enjoy their playful and affectionate nature.

Parson Russell Terriers are smart and friendly, making them a great companion for active families.

However, their high energy levels can lead to conditions such as patellar luxation and arthritis, so it's essential to provide them with regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced lifestyle.

With proper care and attention, a Parson Russell Terrier can thrive and become a beloved member of the family.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a great breed for many families, but it's essential to be aware of some potential health issues they can face. They are prone to heart disease.

These dogs are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to exercise, needing only a couple of 20-minute walks every day. They are also great with kids and other pets.

As with any breed, it's crucial to train your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel regularly to ensure they behave well and are well-adjusted. They are easy to train, which makes them a great choice for first-time dog owners.

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The Chinese Crested is a unique-looking dog breed that can live up to 18 years. They're known for their tiny frames and almost completely hairless bodies, except for their long, silky locks on top of their head, paws, and tails.

Their lifespan is impressive, and some Chinese Cresteds have even been known to live into their 20s. However, they can develop eye problems and dental disease, which is something to be aware of as a potential owner.

Chinese Cresteds come in two varieties: the hairless type and the "powderpuff" type, which is born with hair all over its body.

Pomeranians are spunky little fluff balls. They love to learn new tricks and play games with their pet parents well into their teenage years.

Their small size makes them prone to hypoglycemia. It's essential to monitor their food intake to prevent this issue.

Pomeranians are also susceptible to dental disease. Regular brushing and dental check-ups can help prevent this common problem.

Eye problems are another concern for Pomeranian owners. Keep an eye out for any signs of vision issues and consult a vet if you notice anything unusual.

Collapsing trachea is a serious issue that can affect Pomeranians. It's crucial to work with a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health of their dogs.

Chihuahuas are known for their remarkable longevity, with an average lifespan of 12-18 years. This is impressive considering their small size.

Chihuahuas can live up to 20 years or more with proper care and attention. Their lifespan can vary depending on factors such as diet, exercise, and health conditions.

Chihuahuas are prone to certain health issues that can affect their lifespan, such as hypoglycemia and patellar luxation. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify these issues early on.

A well-cared-for Chihuahua can live a long and healthy life, often outliving larger breeds. With the right care and attention, many Chihuahuas have been known to live into their early twenties.

For your interest: Dog Health Issues by Breed