If you are planning to bring home a dog or want to understand how long dogs live, choosing a breed with a naturally longer lifespan can make a big difference. While the average dog lifespan is 10–13 years, some breeds regularly live 15–20+ years with good care.

This guide covers:

• The longest living dog breeds

• 25 dog breeds that live the longest

• The dog breed with the longest lifespan

• Long-living big dog breeds (rare, but they exist!)

• Factors that affect how long dogs live

• Tips to help your dog live longer

Let’s explore the world’s most long-lived dogs.

What Is the Longest Living Dog Breed?

The Chihuahua is widely considered the longest living dog breed, often reaching 15–20 years, with some living beyond 22 years.

However, several other breeds come close, and some mixed breeds even outlive purebreds.

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Top 25 Longest Living Dog Breeds (2025 List)

Here is the definitive list of the 25 dog breeds that live the longest, based on global studies, kennel club data, and veterinary insights.

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1. Chihuahua (15–20 years)

The smallest dog breed—and the longest living dog species globally.
Lightweight, low joint stress, and strong genetics help them outlive most dogs.

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2. Dachshund (14–18 years)

Known for their playful personality and long body, they often live well into their late teens.

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3. Toy Poodle (14–18 years)

Highly intelligent and hypoallergenic, Toy Poodles are among the world’s healthiest small dogs.

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4. Jack Russell Terrier (13–19 years)

Extremely energetic and physically strong for their size—one of the most long-lived dogs ever recorded was a Jack Russell.

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5. Shih Tzu (13–17 years)

A sturdy toy breed with minimal genetic issues, known for longevity.

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6. Maltese (14–17 years)

This ancient Mediterranean breed regularly crosses 15 years.

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7. Yorkshire Terrier (14–17 years)

A tiny breed with a very strong lifespan record.

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8. Lhasa Apso (14–16 years)

Bred as monastery guardians, they are hardy and long-living.

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9.–10. Papillon & Pomeranian (14–16 years)

Both have strong immunity and excellent vitality.

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11. Miniature Schnauzer (12–15 years)

Very robust and generally free of life-shortening diseases.

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12. Beagle (12–15 years)

One of the healthiest medium breeds in the world.

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13. Australian Shepherd (12–15 years)

A rare medium-large breed with a strong lifespan.

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14. Border Collie (12–15 years)

Their intelligence and athleticism contribute to their long life.

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15. Cocker Spaniel (12–15 years)

With proper ear care and diet, they live surprisingly long.

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16. Shetland Sheepdog (12–14 years)

A gentle, intelligent breed known for its health.

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17. Basenji (12–14 years)

An ancient African breed with a naturally strong genetic foundation.

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18. Bichon Frise (12–15 years)

Small, strong, and hypoallergenic.

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19. Havanese (13–15 years)

Known for low genetic disease rates.

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20. Cairn Terrier (13–15 years)

Terriers generally live long due to their high energy and strong bones.

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21. Whippet (12–15 years)

Extremely athletic and lightweight, reducing joint and heart stress.

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22. Shiba Inu (13–16 years)

One of Japan’s healthiest native breeds.

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23. Rat Terrier (15–18 years)

Often lives well beyond 15 years.

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24. Pug (12–15 years)

Despite breathing concerns, many pugs live long with weight control and clean air.

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25. Mixed Breed Dogs (12–18+ years)

Thanks to genetic diversity, mixed breeds often outlive purebreds.

Long-Living Big Dog Breeds (Rare but Real!)

Most large breeds live only 8–10 years, but some stand out:

1. Alaskan Malamute — 12–15 years

Much longer-lived than most giant breeds.

2. Standard Poodle — 12–15 years

The healthiest among large dogs.

3. Belgian Malinois — 12–14 years

A working dog with excellent genetics.

4. Anatolian Shepherd — 11–15 years

A rare guardian breed with surprising longevity.

5. Australian Cattle Dog — 12–16 years

One of the longest-living medium-large dogs; one lived for 29 years—a world record.

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⭐ Dog Average Lifespan by Size

Small breeds live longer because of:

• Slower metabolism

• Less weight on joints

• Lower risk of heart disease

• Stronger genetics

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🔍 Why Do Some Dogs Live Longer Than Others?

Several factors influence how long a dog lives:

1. Genetics

Breeds with fewer inherited diseases live longer.

2. Weight

Obesity shortens a dog’s life by 2–3 years.

3. Diet Quality

Fresh food + vet-grade supplements = longer life.

4. Activity Level

Dogs need physical + mental stimulation.

5. Veterinary Care

Early detection of issues increases lifespan.

6. Stress-Free Environment

Calm, safe, loving homes add years to a dog’s life.

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🧬 How to Help Your Dog Live Longer

✔ Feed balanced nutrition

Avoid sugar, table food, artificial treats.

✔ Use supplements wisely

Vet-recommended calcium, liver support, and multivitamins help longevity.

✔ Maintain ideal weight

Overweight dogs age 30% faster.

✔ Vaccinate & deworm regularly

Prevents life-threatening diseases.

✔ Go for yearly health checkups

Blood tests and vet exams catch problems early.

✔ Daily exercise + mental play

Boosts immunity and reduces ageing.

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🐶 Final Thoughts: What Dogs Live the Longest?

If your priority is long lifespan, choose:

• Chihuahua

• Dachshund

• Toy Poodle

• Jack Russell Terrier

• Shih Tzu

• Mixed breeds

But remember:
A dog’s lifespan depends more on care than breed.

With love, diet, and regular vet care, your dog can enjoy a long, healthy, happy life.