Discovering the Longest Dog Lifespan by Breed

Did you know that some dog breeds can live up to 20 years or more? According to our research, the average lifespan of a dog is around 10-13 years, but with proper care and attention, some breeds can exceed that by a significant margin.

The Maltese, for example, is known to live up to 18 years or more with regular grooming and a balanced diet. This small, fluffy breed is a popular choice for many dog owners due to its gentle nature and low-shedding coat.

Some larger breeds, like the Labrador Retriever, can also live long lives with proper care. On average, Labradors can live up to 12-14 years, but with regular exercise and a healthy diet, some have been known to reach the age of 17.

If you're looking for a dog breed that's likely to live a long life, you're in luck. The Belgian malinois stands out as one of the longest-living breeds, with an average lifespan of 14 to 16 years.

The Belgian malinois is not the only long-lived breed, however. The Akita also impresses with its long lifespan, typically ranging from 11 to 15 years.

Here's a quick rundown of the longest-living dog breeds mentioned in our article:

If you're considering bringing home a large breed dog, it's essential to know their average lifespan. Great Danes and Irish wolfhounds typically live between 8 to 10 years.

These breeds are known for their massive size, but their lifespan is relatively short compared to smaller dogs. Irish wolfhounds, for example, are often considered one of the shortest-lived breeds due to their large size and potential health issues.

Golden retrievers, on the other hand, tend to live a bit longer, with an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Newfoundlands and Rottweilers also fall within this range.

Some of the longest-lived large breeds include the Labrador retriever, which can live up to 14 years, and the Akita, which can live up to 15 years.

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

Size and Life Expectancy is a crucial factor when it comes to a dog's lifespan. Studies have shown that smaller mammals, including dogs, tend to live longer lives.

A veterinarian with pet food company Royal Canin notes that "there isn't a clear reason for this" but it does seem to be true for dogs as well.

In general, small-breed dogs live 12 to 15 years on average, but some breeds can live up to 20 years or more. Chihuahuas, for example, can live up to 20 years, and a Chihuahua named Spike from Ohio celebrated his 23rd birthday in January 2023.

Here are some examples of small dog breeds and their average lifespans:

Mixed breed dogs tend to live significantly longer than purebred dogs, with an average lifespan of 14 years.

A study from the American Animal Hospital Association found that mixed-breed dogs live longer than purebred dogs, likely due to their broader gene pool.

This genetic diversity can contribute to increased overall health and potentially longer lifespans.

While some mixed breed dogs may still be carriers of recessive disorders, research shows they are less likely to suffer from conditions like early-onset cataracts or dilated cardiomyopathy.

The size of the dog and how it is cared for can also determine how long dogs live, whether they're mixed breed or not.

Overall, mixed breed dogs are a great choice for those looking for a furry companion with a longer lifespan.

Factors impacting life expectancy are a crucial aspect of a dog's lifespan. Certain factors, such as illness and unforeseen accidents, can greatly impact a dog's life expectancy.

Smaller mammals, including dogs, tend to live longer lives. This trend is observed across mammals in general, and it's not entirely clear why it's the case, but it's thought to have something to do with metabolism.

Genetic predisposition to certain diseases can also impact a dog's life expectancy. While you can use at-home dog DNA test kits to screen for genetic health conditions, it's not a guarantee that illnesses won't develop.

Here are some factors that can impact a dog's life expectancy:

You can't change your dog's genetic makeup, but that doesn't mean a grim future is inevitable. According to Karen Shaw Becker, DVM, a veterinarian and author of The Forever Dog, genetic disease accounts for up to 20 percent of ill health in dogs, but the remaining 80 percent is due to poor lifestyle and/or the environment.

To help your dog live a longer, healthier life, work with your vet to create a proactive support plan to manage or decrease the chance of common health problems. This is the best ammunition for decreasing the likelihood of disease expression later on in the dog's life.

Genetic health conditions can be screened for using at-home dog DNA test kits, but that doesn't mean you can stop illnesses from developing. Be proactive about preventive care, manage medical conditions with your veterinarian as needed, keep your dog in normal body condition, and feed a high-quality, complete, and balanced diet without too many treats.

According to Dr. Lenox, the following dog breeds have been known to live up to 15 years or even longer: [insert list of dog breeds here]

Here's a list of dog breeds that may live up to 15 years or longer:

Keep your dog in normal body condition by avoiding overfeeding and underfeeding. Exercise is also crucial for maintaining a healthy weight and overall well-being.

By following these tips and working closely with your veterinarian, you can help your dog live a longer, healthier life.

Some dog breeds are known to live longer than others. The Great Dane, Irish wolfhound, and Golden retriever typically live between 10 to 12 years.

Other breeds, like the Poodle, can live even longer. Toy-sized Poodles can live up to 16 years, while the larger standards live between 11 to 13 years.

Here's a list of some popular breeds and their average lifespan:

Yorkshire Terriers can live for 14 to 17 years, making them one of the longest-living breeds.

They're originally called the broken-haired Scotch terrier and are known for their lively, curious nature.

Yorkies tend to bark a lot, which makes them a potential good watchdog.

Little dogs like Yorkies age slower than larger breeds, which is likely why they can live so long.

Adult Teacup Yorkies weigh only two to four pounds on average, despite being a full-fledged breed.

Poodles are a unique breed that come in various sizes, including toy and standard. Most toy-sized poodles live for about 14 to 16 years.

One of the notable things about poodles is their lifespan, which varies depending on their size. The larger standard poodles live about 11 to 13 years.

The Shetland Sheepdog, affectionately known as the Sheltie, is a breed that originated on the Shetland Islands near Scotland. They were raised by farmers to herd animals, and their small size allowed them to eat less and live longer than other dogs.

Shelties typically live between 12 to 14 years, which is impressive for a dog breed. This is a testament to their hardy and resilient nature.

Collie eye, an inherited disease, is a common issue in Shelties that can lead to blindness.

The Labrador Retriever is a larger-sized breed that lives a long time, with an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years. This means you'll have plenty of time to enjoy their energetic and playful nature.

They love to play and will keep you young with their boundless energy. Just be prepared to keep up!

Like other large dogs, Labradors are prone to hip problems, which can be painful.

Chihuahuas are one of the longest living dog breeds, living an average of 15 to 20 years. They can live up to 20 years, as seen in the case of a Chihuahua named 'megabyte'.

Their small size means they require only a little exercise, making them a great choice for families with smaller living spaces. However, they don't do well in cold climates due to their warm-weather origins.

Chihuahuas are known for being bold, intelligent, and extremely devoted to their people, especially kids.

Mixed Breeds live an average of 14 years, which is significantly longer than purebreds, who live an average of nearly 10 years.

Their longer lifespan is likely due to their broader gene pool, which can contribute to increased overall health and potentially longer lifespans.

While mixed breeds can be one-of-a-kind and less expensive, it's hard to predict how long a mixed-breed dog will live.

Their genetic diversity is a major advantage over purebreds, who may be prone to passing along health problems in their genes.

Some mixed breeds, like the Boston Terrier, are known for their unique characteristics and robust health.

However, like any dog, their size and care can also determine how long they live, regardless of their breed or mix of breeds.

By choosing a mixed breed, you can increase the chances of getting a healthier and longer-lived companion.

The Australian Cattle dog is a remarkable breed that's known for its impressive lifespan. They can live for 12 to 15 years, with the current Guinness record holder, Bluey, living an astonishing 29 years.

This breed is built for work, with a strong attachment to their owners. They're intelligent, energetic, and respond well to training, making them a great companion for active owners.

One thing to keep in mind is that Australian Cattle dogs can be stubborn at times, so consistent training and socialization are key. With the right care and attention, they can thrive and become loyal friends.

Here are some key characteristics of the Australian Cattle dog:

Lhasa Apsos are an ancient breed originating from Tibet.

Their calm and gentle nature makes them a great match for families with kids, who can get along well with them.

They're small in size, but highly regarded watchdogs that were once used in Tibetan palaces and monasteries.

Lhasa Apsos are lovable and loyal toward their owners, but wary of strangers.

On average, they live for 12-14 years, with some living up to nearly two decades.

The Shih Tzu is a sweet and friendly breed that's perfect for anyone looking for a loyal companion. They have a long history of being kept as pets by Chinese royalty.

One of the best things about Shih Tzus is that they are relatively healthy dogs, with a lifespan of up to 10 to 18 years on average. They make great company and can keep you entertained all day long for years.

Shih Tzus are not a good candidate for watchdogs, so if you're looking for a breed to protect your home, this might not be the best choice. However, their friendly nature makes them a great fit for families or individuals who want a low-maintenance pet.

To keep your Shih Tzu happy and healthy, be sure to keep them well-groomed all the time. This will help prevent any health problems from arising.

The Coton de Tulear is a small but mighty breed, weighing in at just 15 pounds. They're known for their long lifespan, which can range from 15 to 19 years.

These little dogs have a big personality, with loads of tenacity and affection to spare. They bond strongly with their families and love going everywhere with them.

The Rat Terrier is a compact and robust dog breed that stands at about 13 inches for the miniature size and around 18 inches for the standard size.

Their average life span is impressive, ranging from 12 to 18 years, giving you plenty of time to enjoy their feisty and fun company.

These spirited and stubborn canines are a true terrier breed, requiring consistent boundaries and obedience training to reach their full potential.

With positive reinforcement, they can thrive and become wonderful companions, despite their opinionated nature.

For more insights, see: Welsh Terrier Life Span

Dachshunds are currently the twelfth most popular dog breed, according to the American Kennel Club, and come in various sizes and coat types.

They're known for their independent nature and bold curiosity, which might contribute to their relatively long lifespan.

Dachshunds love to eat, but being overweight can lead to lower-back injuries due to their short legs and long backs.

This is a risk factor for intervertebral disk disease, or IVDD, which is a common issue in this breed.

To keep your dachshund healthy, it's essential to monitor their weight and prevent obesity.

By doing so, you can help ensure they live a long and happy life with you.