We all wish our dogs could live forever, but some breeds naturally stick around a bit longer than others.
While lifespan shouldn’t be the deciding factor on which dog you welcome into your home, it’s certainly a consideration for many people, who want to enjoy as many years as possible with their pups. These breeds might not dodge the ageing process altogether, since that would be impossible, but they often enjoy long, happy lives by your side.
1. Chihuahua
These tiny dogs may be small in size, but they’ve got seriously long lives to match their big personalities. Chihuahuas often live 14 to 17 years, and some make it well into their 20s. With proper care, these feisty little companions are in it for the long haul. They don’t need tons of exercise and tend to avoid major health issues if kept at a healthy weight. Their alertness and sass also mean they don’t tend to slow down much, even in their senior years.
2. Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles are more than just pretty faces. These clever, loyal dogs often live 14 to 18 years and stay active well into old age. Their intelligence helps them adapt as they age, and they tend to age gracefully when given regular vet care and mental stimulation.
Being small works in their favour, and they’re not typically prone to the joint or breathing issues seen in other toy breeds. Keep them mentally engaged and physically fit, and they’ll likely be your sidekick for a very long time.
3. Jack Russell terrier
Jack Russells may be known for their energy, but they also have serious staying power. Many live to 15 and beyond, especially if they get the exercise and attention they crave. Their boundless energy doesn’t burn out quickly—it just slows to a steady trot over time.
They’re tough, active dogs who tend to avoid many of the breed-specific issues seen in larger dogs. A well-cared-for Jack Russell can easily live into their late teens, giving you years of enthusiasm, play, and loyalty.
4. Dachshund
With their sausage-like bodies and expressive faces, Dachshunds are fan favourites, and they’re known to live long lives too. Many make it to 16 or 17, especially if their backs stay healthy and they avoid obesity.
They do need extra care around jumping and stairs to prevent spinal injuries, but otherwise, they’re hardy little characters. Their loyalty and quirky nature make them unforgettable companions over a decade or more.
5. Shih Tzu
Originally bred for royalty, Shih Tzus come with not just a lush coat, but also an impressive lifespan—often 13 to 16 years. Their small size and easygoing personality make them adaptable, and they usually age well when kept healthy.
They can be prone to some respiratory and eye issues, but these are manageable with regular vet visits. Their affectionate nature means they’ll likely spend their golden years happily snuggled up by your side.
6. Miniature Schnauzer
Mini Schnauzers pack a big personality into a sturdy little frame, and they often stick around for 14 to 16 years. Their strong build and low-shedding coat make them a popular choice for families, especially those wanting a dog that doesn’t slow down too quickly.
They do best with regular grooming and exercise, but overall, they’re a healthy, resilient breed. Their loyalty and spunky nature mean you’ll have a devoted companion for many years.
7. Maltese
These sweet, fluffy companions are known for being affectionate lapdogs, and they often enjoy long lives—usually 13 to 15 years. Their gentle nature makes them great for quieter households, and their size helps keep joint and mobility issues at bay.
With a proper diet, regular grooming, and yearly check-ups, most Maltese dogs age well. They’re the kind of companion who happily settles into your daily rhythm and sticks with you through all of life’s seasons.
8. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies may look dainty, but they’re surprisingly sturdy and long-lived. It’s not unusual for them to live 15 years or more, and many keep their sass well into their senior years. They’re lively, curious, and not one to back down from an adventure.
They do need consistent dental care and grooming, but their size works in their favour when it comes to longevity. Keep them moving and engaged, and they’ll likely be at your heels for a very long time.
9. Papillon
With their butterfly-like ears and cheerful spirit, Papillons are small dogs with big hearts—and long lives. Many live well into their teens, with 14 to 17 years being pretty standard. They tend to stay sprightly and agile even as they age.
They’re quick learners and enjoy plenty of mental stimulation, so keeping them engaged is key. Their zest for life means they often don’t act their age, even when they hit double digits.
10. Lhasa Apso
Originally bred as sentinel dogs in Tibetan monasteries, Lhasa Apsos are sturdy little dogs with serious longevity. Many live 14 to 17 years, and some even reach 20 with excellent care. They’re calm, watchful, and make loyal companions.
They do require regular grooming and some patience during training, but they’re generally healthy and resilient. With a balanced lifestyle, a Lhasa Apso can easily be with you for close to two decades.
11. Beagle
Beagles are more medium-sized than tiny, but they still make the list for their impressive lifespans—often reaching 12 to 15 years. Their upbeat nature and love of activity help keep them fit well into older age.
They can be prone to weight gain if not exercised enough, but overall, they’re hardy dogs with minimal genetic issues. Give them plenty of walks and keep them mentally stimulated, and they’ll stay youthful longer than you’d expect.
12. Border Terrier
Border Terriers are tough, spirited little dogs that tend to live long, healthy lives—often 14 to 16 years. They’re not fussy, adapt well to different living environments, and don’t tend to suffer from as many inherited issues as some other breeds.
They do best with lots of daily activity, and they love to dig, explore, and follow their nose. If you’re after a companion that ages gracefully and keeps their playful side, a Border Terrier could be the one.
13. Pomeranian
Don’t let the fluff fool you—Pomeranians are surprisingly tough and long-lived. With a lifespan of 13 to 16 years, they often age with just as much spunk as they had in their younger days. They’re social, intelligent, and packed with personality.
They can be prone to dental issues, so routine care is important. But overall, they’re low-maintenance in terms of exercise and easy to live with. Their small size and big heart make them delightful long-term companions.
