10 dog breeds with the longest life expectancies. Illustration: Petepop
Most dogs have an average lifespan of about 10 to 13 years. However, some breeds live exceptionally long lives, with some dogs surpassing the age of 20 years.
Here are the dog breeds with the longest life expectancies:
1. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are one of the longest-living dog breeds, likely due to their small size. With a typical lifespan of 15 to 20 years, these tiny companions will provide you with many years of adventures.
The longest-living Chihuahua on record, named Megabyte, passed away in January 2014 at the age of 20.
2. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers are very popular worldwide, and luckily for their owners, they typically live between 17 and 20 years. Their small size makes them favorites among dog lovers.
Jack, a Yorkshire Terrier from the United Kingdom, lived to be 25 years old before tragically passing away in 2015 due to an attack by another dog.
3. Pomeranian
These fluffy little dogs have an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years. They are loving companions and a favorite among pet owners.
One of the oldest known Pomeranians, Coty, lived for 21 years and passed away just a few months before his 21st birthday in 2016.
4. Dachshund
Dachshunds, with their lively personalities, typically live between 12 and 15 years. However, one resilient Dachshund named Chanel lived to be 21 years old.
5. Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles may be smaller than their standard counterparts, but they are just as intelligent and trainable. They generally live 12 to 15 years. The oldest Toy Poodle on record, Seamus, lived to be 20 years old.
6. Maltese
A favorite among dog lovers, Maltese dogs have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. This ancient breed originated on the Mediterranean island of Malta.
7. Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos have a typical lifespan of 12 to 15 years. They were originally bred to help guard Buddhist temples. According to the American Kennel Club, one Lhasa Apso lived to be 29 years old, though little additional information is available about this record.
8. Pug
Pugs are well-known for their charming personalities and live around 12 to 15 years. This ancient Chinese breed has remained popular for centuries. One famous pug, Snookie, lived to the age of 27 and passed away in 2018.
9. Beagle
Beagles are known for being great family dogs, thanks to their gentle nature and active lifestyle. They usually live between 12 and 15 years. The oldest recorded Beagle, Butch, passed away in 2003 at the impressive age of 27.
10. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are energetic and highly trainable dogs with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. They frequently participate in various canine sports, providing their owners with years of companionship.
Illustration: Petepop. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
