13 Dog Breeds With Surprisingly Long Life Expectancy

Chihuahuas are among the longest-lived dog breeds thanks to their tiny size and big spirit. They often reach their mid-teens, and some thrive into their late teens with proper care. Their small, compact bodies make them less prone to joint issues common in larger breeds. With regular vet check-ups, balanced nutrition, and indoor safety, they remain energetic and alert well into old age. Their loyalty and charm only grow with time.

Dachshund

Shutterstock

Dachshunds regularly live into their mid to late teens, helped by their robust build and affectionate nature. Keeping them at a healthy weight is key to sparing their long backs from stress. With proper exercise, joint care, and regular vet visits, many Dachshunds age gracefully. Their playful personalities stay intact even as they grow older, showering your home with tales of youthful adventures. They’re proof that low-slung stature can lead to big longevity.

Toy Poodle

Shutterstock

Toy Poodles enjoy longevity thanks to their clever genetics and strong bond with owners. They frequently live into their late teens, thriving on mental stimulation and affectionate care. Their curly coats require regular grooming, keeping them clean and comfortable year-round. Poodles are also adaptable, fitting well into any living situation, supporting mental and physical health. A Toy Poodle’s timeless elegance is matched only by its enduring vitality.

Jack Russell Terrier

Shutterstock

Jack Russell Terriers are small but mighty, often living well into their late teens. Their boundless energy and sturdy build contribute to lifetime fitness. With consistent exercise and mental games, Jack Russells stay sharp and healthy. They’re also relatively free from genetic disease, especially when responsibly bred. Their feisty spirit remains intact with age, making them lively companions at any stage.

Shih Tzu

Shutterstock

Shih Tzus, bred as royal lap companions, often reach their mid-teens and beyond. Their manageable size and affectionate nature pair well with indoor life and consistent grooming. Though they can face eye or dental issues, proactive check-ups keep them thriving. Shih Tzus enjoy a calm routine and some soft play that supports longevity. Their warm presence remains gentle and constant through the years.

Maltese

Shutterstock

Maltese often live between twelve and sixteen years, thanks to their small frame and love for gentle play. Their silky white coat may need care, but their hearts remain strong as they age. They’re prone to dental and patellar issues, but regular grooming and vet visits go a long way. Maltese retain puppy-like charm far into adulthood and blossom with age. Their lifelong loyalty is as soft as their fur. 

Miniature Schnauzer

Shutterstock

Miniature Schnauzers are sturdy and adaptable, often living into their mid-to-late teens. Their alert, clever minds remain active with regular walks and grooming of their wiry coat. They’re also reasonably healthy, with a manageable predisposition for bladder stones if properly monitored. Their playful energy pairs with a friendly, trainable nature, encouraging active aging. Mini Schnauzers age gracefully alongside devoted families.

Lhasa Apso

Shutterstock

Lhasa Apsos often reach into their mid-to-late teens thanks to their compact build and quiet, stable temperament. Their thick double coat helps regulate temperature while regular grooming prevents mats and stress. They can sometimes experience kidney issues or a luxating patella, but respond well to early veterinary care. Lhasas bond closely with their humans, thriving on companionship, attention, and calm routines. They mature into wise, loving household members.

Pomeranian

Shutterstock

Pomeranians balance fluffy brightness with a strong lifespan, often living into their mid-late teens. Their small size reduces stress on joints, and their alert demeanor keeps minds stimulated. Regular brushing and dental care are critical to keep them thriving. Poms are spunky but also affectionate, thriving on mental and physical connection. Their vibrant personalities don’t fade with fur; they glow.

Yorkshire Terrier

Shutterstock

Yorkshire Terriers frequently live well into their mid-teens, often reaching eighteen years or more. Their petite frame and adaptable nature help them avoid many age-related issues. They’re prone to tracheal collapse and dental concerns, but regular vet check-ups and gentle living help avoid complications. Yorkies are fiercely loyal and remain personable into old age. Their sprightly spirit endures through many years.

Beagle

Shutterstock

Beagles regularly enjoy lifespans reaching into their mid-teens, balancing robust health with active personalities. Regular exercise helps manage weight and protect joint health in later years. Their genetics are generally strong, though they benefit from dental and ear care as they age. The joyful Beagle voice often spans years of companionship and play. Their joyful spirit outlives many shorter-lived breeds.

Shetland Sheepdog

Shutterstock

Shetland Sheepdogs are known for hitting their late teens with proper care. Their working dog heritage gives them strong bones and alert minds. They thrive on mental stimulation through training, tasks, and companionship. Though they can have thyroid or eye conditions, proactive wellness checks help maintain health. Shelties age with grace, continuing to learn and love well past adolescence.

Border Collie

Shutterstock

Border Collies often enjoy long, healthy lives spanning fifteen years or more. Their active breed biology supports sharp minds and fit bodies. Mental challenges and regular exercise further protect their vitality. They may develop eye conditions, but proactive tests and care catch issues early. Border Collies stay bright, loving, and energetic into their senior years, true lifelong partners.

Age Like Fine Dogs

Shutterstock

These breeds show that a mix of good genes, small stature, and lots of love can lead to a long, joy-filled life by your side. With regular vet visits, a healthy lifestyle, and a bit of extra attention as they age, they often stay with you well beyond the average. Their long lives are packed with tail wags, sleepy cuddles, and the kind of bond that deepens with each passing year. They grow older with grace, offering steady companionship and memories that stay with you long after the fur turns gray.