Longest-living Dog breeds
Comedian George Carlin once remarked that life is a series of dogs, and indeed, the presence of muddy paws, wet noses, and snuggles brings heartwarming joy to our lives. However, it is a sad reality that dogs have shorter lifespans compared to humans.
While there are no guarantees in life, certain dog breeds are known for their longevity if you wish to delay the heartbreaking separation from your canine companion as much as possible. It is worth noting that, as a general trend, small dogs tend to live longer than larger dogs. Therefore, you will come across numerous small dog breeds on the following list.
How Long Do Dogs Live?
In general, smaller dog breeds tend to have longer life expectancies compared to larger breeds. However, there are a few medium-sized dogs known for their extended lifespans. The record for the “oldest dog ever” is held by Bobi, a Portuguese Rafeiro do Alentejo, who is currently 30 years old and still going strong.
The longest-living dogs, mostly small breeds, can often reach their late teens or even early twenties. On the other hand, extra-large breeds like Great Danes and Newfoundlands typically have shorter lifespans, living approximately 7-10 years.
The exact reasons why smaller dogs tend to outlive larger breeds are not entirely clear. One theory suggests that common age-related health conditions in dogs may be more challenging to manage in larger breeds, potentially leading to earlier euthanasia.
Yorkshire Terrier:-
Yorkies have an average lifespan of 14 to 16 years. Despite their small size, these lively terriers should not be underestimated. Although they are often pampered pets in modern times, their ancestors were originally bred for rat hunting. It is a common trend that smaller dog breeds tend to have longer lifespans compared to large
Maltese:-
The Maltese, a graceful breed known for its average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, has a remarkable history that spans 28 centuries. They were potentially revered by the Ancient Egyptians, and their presence was acknowledged by Greek and Roman philosophers in their writings. Despite their elegant appearance and gentle demeanor, it’s surprising to learn that the Maltese also had a role as rat hunters in the past. They possess beautiful, long, silky white hair that adds to their charm.
Miniature Schnauzer:-
Miniature Schnauzers are compact and robust dogs, standing at a height of approximately 12 to 14 inches. They typically enjoy a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Due to their longevity and their affectionate nature towards children, they make excellent choices as family pets. However, it’s important to note that these dogs can be susceptible to pancreatitis, a condition caused by elevated fat levels in their bloodstream. Therefore, they may require a specialized diet to manage this health concern.
Boston Terrier:-
These clever and confident small dogs thoroughly enjoy playtime. Despite their compact size, they have a youthful spirit and typically live for around 14 years. Their large eyes may captivate you, but it’s important to protect them. The eyes of Boston Terriers protrude from their face, which makes them more vulnerable to potential harm from the sun, wind, and dust. To safeguard their eyes, the Boston Terrier Club of America recommends purchasing a visor for your furry friend.
Shih Tzu:-
Shih Tzus, once cherished by royalty during China’s Ming Dynasty, remained relatively obscure in the Western world until the 20th century. These resilient and endearing small dogs typically have a lifespan of 11 to 14 years. They are generally free from major health issues, although they may occasionally experience skin irritations. Due to their prominent eyes, they can be susceptible to dust, sun, and wind, much like Boston Terriers. Therefore, it is important to keep your Shih Tzu well-groomed to ensure their overall well-being.
Dachshund:-
It’s hard to resist the charm of lovable “wiener dogs”! Whether they have long hair, wire hair, or a smooth coat, these playful pups typically enjoy a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. During the Middle Ages, Germans utilized dachshunds for hunting purposes, specifically for their ability to maneuver into badger dens due to their long and low bodies. It is crucial to protect their elongated backs from potential issues: Ensure your dachshund maintains a lean physique and prevent them from jumping off high furniture.
Beagle:-
Beagles are inquisitive, intelligent, and guaranteed to provide endless entertainment. This affectionate and vocal breed typically has a lifespan of about 12 to 14 years. Due to their exceptional sense of smell, they have a fondness for food, so it’s important to be cautious and avoid overfeeding your beagle. Carrying excess weight can shorten the lifespan of any dog.