The Dog Breeds That Are Likely To Live The Longest (Dogs That Can Live A Long, Healthy Life)
One of the toughest realities of owning a dog is accepting that our beloved companions usually have shorter lifespans than we do. Fortunately, many breeds can enjoy long, happy lives well into their teens. While experts—including those at the American Kennel Club—generally agree that smaller dogs often live longer, there are plenty of exceptions. Larger breeds such as the Shiba Inu and Belgian Malinois can reach up to 16 years! You might be surprised by the variety of breeds known for their remarkable longevity. Keep reading to discover which dogs lead the pack!
Shiba Inus Have Little More Than Allergies To Worry About
Shiba Inus perfectly blend charm and elegance. This Japanese breed resembles a mix between a fox and a teddy bear, and their personality matches that unique look. These good-natured dogs are lively and enjoy an adventurous lifestyle.
While Shibas aren't overly energetic, they do require a decent amount of exercise to maintain their health. According to the AKC, Shibas can be prone to allergies, but with proper care, these usually don’t affect their well-being. You can expect these dogs to live for more than 16 years.
Beagles Live Long With Exercise And Restraint
Beagles are lovable dogs who, if you can manage their howling, make fantastic companions. These easygoing pups stay cheerful as long as they get enough exercise and have plenty of social interaction.
With their strong hunting instincts and tendency to dig, it's important to keep a close eye on these clever escape artists. When kept happy and nearby, you can look forward to enjoying the company of these charming dogs for 15 years or more.
Bergamascos Have Protective Fur And Good Genes
Bergamascos might look like mopheads, but they're also among the most low-maintenance and easygoing breeds out there. Their thick, corded coats serve as natural protection against cold weather and potential threats.
Thanks to their robust genetics, it’s no surprise these dogs can live well beyond 15 years. Friendly with both other animals and children, these social companions thrive on pleasing their families. While they enjoy staying active, their calm nature means they only need moderate exercise.
Schnauzers Are Versatile And Healthy
Schnauzers are an exceptionally versatile breed, coming in miniature, standard, and giant sizes. Among them, the standard Schnauzer tends to live the longest, often reaching up to 16 years, while the miniature and giant types usually live around 15 years.
Regardless of size, Schnauzers are lively, athletic dogs that flourish with plenty of playtime and companionship. Their naturally social and protective nature makes them devoted family members. The AKC notes that Schnauzers are generally a healthy breed, so with proper care, they typically enjoy long, fulfilling lives.
Australian Shepherds Are Naturally Fit
Australian Shepherds are as diligent as they are striking. Their strong work drive paired with sharp intelligence can pose challenges for novice dog owners. Filled with boundless energy, the AKC advises providing at least an hour of active outdoor playtime daily.
When their exercise requirements are fulfilled, Australian Shepherds typically live around 15 years. These sturdy dogs are generally healthy, and their active mindset helps keep them naturally fit.
Havanese Do Best With A Sedentary Lifestyle
Havanese dogs are known for their silky, flowing fur and joyful, friendly nature. Weighing between seven and 13 pounds, these compact pups are popular among city dwellers since they don't need more than some indoor playtime to stay happy.
The AKC notes that while Havanese are typically healthy, they can be prone to certain health concerns, making it essential to choose a responsible breeder. Unlike more energetic breeds, they can tire quickly if overexerted. With the right care, Havanese often live well past 16 years.
Azawakhs Need Little More Than Daily Playtime
Azawakhs look like larger versions of Whippets, featuring long snouts and elegant, S-shaped bodies. Similar to their smaller cousins, they enjoy an impressive lifespan, often surpassing 15 years. Originating as a sighthound breed from Africa, Azawakhs have keen eyesight and can reach incredible speeds.
Their athletic build makes them great companions for runners, though they're not as hyperactive as some breeds and are generally satisfied with daily play. According to the AKC, Azawakhs won’t exercise on their own, so it’s important to keep them engaged with stimulating activities or furry playmates.
Bichon Frise Are Active For Non-Athletes
The Bichon Frise's soft, fluffy coat—resembling a little afro—matches perfectly with its spirited and cheerful personality, making this small dog a genuine bundle of happiness. The AKC calls them "canine comedians" thanks to their lively nature and friendly demeanor.
Weighing less than 20 pounds, these playful pups are known for quick bursts of energy, sprinting around the house or yard. Although they’re not built for intense athleticism, they still need daily walks and playtime to maintain their health and can often live up to a remarkable 15 years.
Poodles Have A Healthy History
Poodles are well-known for their keen intelligence and graceful looks, but there's much more to this breed than meets the eye. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Poodles can live up to 18 years, making them one of the longer-lived breeds.
Whether standard, miniature, or toy, Poodles generally enjoy robust health, particularly when coming from reputable breeders. They are also popular in crossbreeding, meaning Poodle mixes often inherit their remarkable longevity too.
Dachshunds Live Long If They Stay In Shape
Though Dachshunds stand just five to nine inches tall, their bold personalities easily make up for their small stature. The AKC describes these lively dogs as always eager for adventure—provided their long, strong bodies can keep up.
Because of their unique shape, it's crucial for Dachshunds to stay active to protect their backs and prevent injury. Keeping them at a healthy weight is also essential, since excess pounds can strain their spines. With the right care, these loving companions can live as long as 16 years.
Australian Cattle Dogs Live Long With Enough Exercise
Australian Cattle Dogs make loyal and lively companions, full of energy and strength. Closely related to the Dingo, these sturdy pups thrive on physical activity and mental stimulation. If their exercise needs are met, these hard-working dogs can live up to 16 years or more!
According to the AKC, simply letting them roam around the yard won't cut it. These dogs need a purpose—whether it's going on long runs, learning tricks, or competing in dog sports, they excel when they have a task to focus on.
Chihuahuas Easily Get All The Exercise They Need
Chihuahuas are famously small, usually weighing no more than six pounds. Their compact size allows them to stay active even in tight spaces, and they only require brief, gentle walks to stay in shape.
The American Kennel Club reports that Chihuahuas often live beyond 16 years and tend to enjoy good overall health. However, breeders should screen for inherited conditions, especially heart and eye problems. Due to their tiny build, even a little overeating can cause them to gain weight, so owners should monitor their diet closely.
Shih Tzus Can Grow Up With Your Kids!
Much like Poodles, Shih Tzus can live up to an impressive 18 years! Their small size also means they only need short walks to stay healthy—similar to Chihuahuas. According to the AKC, Shih Tzus were specifically "bred to be a house companion," making them perfect for indoor living.
While they may not be your go-to hiking buddy, Shih Tzus make up for it with their lively, outgoing personalities. They're known for being social butterflies and get along especially well with children—often staying by their side from toddler years to the teen stage.
Pomeranians Live Long With Proper Protection
Pomeranians are essentially the fluffball version of the Chihuahua. They only weigh three to seven pounds and don't need much to get enough exercise. That being said, Poms love outdoor play, but a watchful eye is vital since they are highly vulnerable to predatory birds.
Though these lapdogs need protection, they are generally healthy little companions and have a life expectancy of up to 16 years. Between their looks, personality, and health, it's no wonder Poms are among the most popular toy breeds in the world, according to the AKC.
Whippets Have Greater Longevity When Lean
Whippets' long and sleek physique makes them agile and quick when active, but their calm spirit makes them just as gentle as they are playful. They stand at no more than 22 inches and are rather lean, weighing in at 25-40 pounds.
These agile sprinters do require regular exercise, but they don't mind being a couch potato once they've let that energy out. As skinny as the dogs may look, the AKC warns that the breed's "frame is not well suited to carrying excessive weight." With the proper care, Whippets have a life expectancy of up to 15 years.
Cairn Terriers Live Long With Daily Outtings
Cairn Terriers are fearless, curious little dogs with a cheerful attitude that makes them wonderful companions. Though they only weigh about 14 pounds, their need for adventure requires a couple of daily outings, especially when living in apartments.
Cairns love human interaction and are just as much lap dogs as they are explorers. The alert little dogs can be easily distracted, but are also intelligent and eager to please. This breed is generally a healthy one and their life expectancy is up to 15 years.
Belgian Malinois Have Exceptional Longevity For A Large Dog
The AKC states that, though scientists have yet to understand why, dog size does tend to impact longevity. Belgian Malinois are one example of an exception to this rule. Though they weigh upwards of 80 pounds, they have a life expectancy of 14 to 16 years!
The confident and loyal Belgian Malinois loves to put their muscular build to good use, especially alongside their owner. The key to a healthy Mal is lots of exercise and attention.
Canaan Dogs Are Alert And Adaptive
Canaan Dogs are medium-sized canines that remain on-guard when it comes to protecting their family. Both territorial and tireless, these dogs make for wonderful adventure companions. They don't demand the exercise needs of some breeds, and can therefore adapt to various living situations given enough daily outings.
Since Canaan Dogs tend to be wary around other humans and animals, it's important to socialize them early on and to be mindful of their sensitive nature. With the right support, you can expect this loyal breed to remain by your side for as many as 15 years.
Border Collies Live Long With Vigorous Exercise
Border Collies are beautiful dogs with the mindset of an athlete. Bursting with energy and bound to their work, these canines need an owner who can act like their coach each and every day. Their hardy minds and bodies explain their impressive 15-year life expectancy.
An alternative to coaching a Border Collie is to work with one. The AKC deems the eager breed a "workaholic" for a reason, as they love being of use to their owner. The affectionate companions will curl up with you at night, but not until they've worn themselves out.
Siberian Huskies Do Best With A Careful Diet
Siberian Huskies have a beautiful build and a strong work ethic that makes them naturally active. Additionally, they are pack dogs who adore the company of others, dogs and humans alike. As such, they do best with plenty of exercise alongside other dogs or their owner.
The AKC calls Siberian Huskies a relatively healthy breed and pegs their life expectancy at upwards of 14 years. They also note that Siberians require a specific amount of protein for their skin and coat, and their diet may need to be adjusted depending on the season and their exercise level.
