From Chihuahuas to Australian Cattle, Here Are The 8 Longest Living Dogs
If you’re looking for a four-legged canine companion, one of the deciding criteria can be how long particular dogs live. After all, some dogs do have greater life spans than others.
When it comes to the dog breeds with the longest lifespans, the tiniest types are generally the ones who live the longest.
Continue reading to view our average list of the top 8 longest living dogs.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are not only one of the oldest dog breeds but also one of the tiniest. Chihuahuas have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years. The oldest Chihuahua reported is a 20-year-old Chihuahua named Megabyte.’ Despite their small size and cuteness, chihuahuas are considered diminutive “guard dogs.” They adore and defend their close family, but it takes time for them to warm up to outsiders.
They may be the smallest dog breed, but they are also one of the longest-living, owing to their lack of susceptibility to significant hereditary disorders.
Breed Genealogy
| HEIGHT: | 5 to 8 inches |
| WEIGHT: | 4-6 pounds |
| LIFE EXPECTANCY: | 12 to 20 years |
Dachshund
The Dachshund, sometimes known as the “sausage dog,” is another longest-living dog that lives many years longer than other types. At least one Dachshund lived for 21 years. Dachshunds are brave, have boundless energy, and adore their owners.
They, too, may be healthy dogs if they are fed the proper food. Because of their long backs, these “weiner dogs” should not reside in areas where they will have to climb a lot of stairs.
Chanel, a dachshund, set a Guinness World Record for the oldest living Dachshund. She died in 2009, at the age of 21.
Breed Genealogy
| HEIGHT: | 5 to 9 inches |
| WEIGHT: | 30-32 pounds |
| LIFE EXPECTANCY: | 12 to 16 years |
Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is a medium-sized dog breed that originated in England. Later, it was exported, developed, and given a definitive written record in Australia. They have a life expectancy ranging from 16 to 20 years.
According to Guinness World Records, Willie, the oldest Jack Russell, reached the age of 20 in 2014. Jack Russells were bred to be working dogs and still have that drive and energy.
Breed Genealogy
| HEIGHT: | 13 to 14 inches |
| WEIGHT: | 13 to 17 pounds |
| LIFE EXPECTANCY: | 13 to 18 years |
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu, another ancient dog breed whose name translates as “lion” in Chinese, was kept as a companion by the Chinese aristocracy for generations. They are lovely, sweet, and friendly to everyone (they are not a suitable watchdog candidate).
Shih Tzus are a famous breed of miniature dogs, popularly described as “the cutest dog alive.” These little dogs are kind, low-energy, and do not bark excessively. They have long, silky hair that has to be groomed regularly, either at home or at a doggy grooming shop.
Breed Genealogy
| HEIGHT: | 9 to 11 inches |
| WEIGHT: | 9 to 16 pounds |
| LIFE EXPECTANCY: | 10 to 16 years |
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, or “Yorkies,” are sometimes cut to keep their long coats in check, but if left to grow naturally, their famed fur is lovely and silky straight. These small canines have a lot of energy and are quite energetic.
They may be pushy with strangers, other animals, and even youngsters, much like other tiny dogs. Yorkies are also available in a little version known as the Teacup Yorkie. The average adult Teacup Yorkie weighs only two to four pounds.
Breed Genealogy
| HEIGHT: | 7 to 8 inches |
| WEIGHT: | 7 pounds |
| LIFE EXPECTANCY: | 13 to 16 years |
Pomeranian
Pomeranians are intelligent and obedient, making them easy to teach. They are a popular tiny breed, but because they have reduced activity, they fare better in quieter families.
Despite their lack of extreme playfulness, they are frequently interested in their surroundings. Because of their placid demeanor, they make excellent handbag dogs and are usually regarded as one of the greatest breeds for ladies. Pomeranians have a lengthy life expectancy of 12 to 16 years, so if you retain one, you will have more bonding time with it.
Breed Genealogy
| HEIGHT: | 6 to 7 inches |
| WEIGHT: | 3 to 7 pounds |
| LIFE EXPECTANCY: | 12 to 16 years |
Shiba Inu
Shiba Inus are referred to as the “cats” of the canine world. These canines are not for everyone since they are strong-willed and aloof. They are good-natured but obstinate.
“The Shiba is generally healthy, although hereditary issues including hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye difficulties have been observed,” according to the AKC. In 2011, the oldest known Shiba Inu survived until the age of 26.
Breed Genealogy
| HEIGHT: | 14 to 17 inches |
| WEIGHT: | 17 to 23 pounds |
| LIFE EXPECTANCY: | 13 to 16 years |
Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian cow dog is a unique giant dog breed with a lengthy lifespan. This breed has an estimated lifetime of 12 to 15 years. Bluey, an Australian cattle dog, now holds the Guinness World Record for the longest-living dog, having lived for 29 years.
Australian cattle dogs are a typical working breed that is active, clever, and responds well to training. They also build close bonds with their owners. Keeping them might be difficult because they can be obstinate at times.
Breed Genealogy
| HEIGHT: | 17 to 20 inches |
| WEIGHT: | 30 to 50 pounds |
| LIFE EXPECTANCY: | 12 to 16 years |
In general, the larger the dog, the shorter the longevity. Size and breed aren’t the only elements that influence a dog’s life expectancy. There are several more elements that you can manage that may impact your dog’s longevity. For example, a healthy lifestyle and proper veterinarian care.
