10 Dog Breeds with The Longest Life Spans 

Dogs have been repeatedly referred to as “man’s best friend,” and many people form extremely deep bonds with their canine companions. Since most dog owners want to enjoy as many years as possible with their pets, many gravitate towards breeds that have long lifespans.

So, which breeds boast the longest lifespans of all? Today we’ll be looking at 10 of the dog breeds with the longest average lifespans and ranking them accordingly. We’ll also learn some fun facts about each dog and see what makes them unique!

10. Shih Tzu

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While the temperament of any dog breed is bound to vary, Shih Tzus generally have a very cute, friendly, and playful disposition. These dogs were originally bred in Tibet, and people continued to evolve the breed in other areas of China as it became more popular. Many Shih Tzus sport long coats of fur, but some varieties have shorter coats.

Did you know? 

The Chinese name of the Shih Tzu breed means “lion dog”. has been said to own “a little bit of everything.”

9. Beagle 

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While many varieties of hound dogs are on the larger side, Beagles run fairly small by comparison and are often described as looking like miniature Foxhounds. Their large eyes often give them a puppylike, pleading facial expression that many people find to be endearing. Beagles are scent hounds and track by smell while hunting.

Did you know? 

Since Beagles were bred specifically for pack hunting, they generally get along quite well with other dogs.

8. Lhasa Apso 

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These alert, wise-looking dogs were bred to serve as sentinels in palaces and Buddhist monasteries by sounding the alarm in case of intruders. Lhasa Apso dogs have excellent hearing and a protective nature, loyal to anyone they consider to be family. These dogs are best suited for people with few allergy problems, since their long coats trap a lot of dust and dander.

Did you know? 

The breed name Lhasa Apso is said to mean either “long-haired Lhasa dog” or “woolly Lhasa dog.”

7. Maltese

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This charming breed has been known by a number of quirky names, including “Roman Ladies’ Dog” and “Maltese Sleeve Dog.” Some people believe that the lively Maltese was formerly used for rodent control. One thing is certain: These friendly, playful little dogs were thoroughly bred to serve as companions! Maltese are known for being extremely gentle and loving towards their family members.

Did you know? 

Along with being very friendly, these dogs are also quite agile and love a vigorous play and workout session.

6. Cockapoo 

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The American Kennel Club and other similar organizations do not recognize the Cockapoo as its own official breed, but that doesn’t stop it from finding a place in countless people’s hearts. Cockapoos are made by crossing a Cocker Spaniel with a Poodle, and the variety in traits is very broad as a result. These dogs have coats of all kinds of different textures, lengths, and colors.

Did you know? 

Many Cockapoos offer the sweet, outgoing personality of Cocker Spaniels alongside the low-shedding convenience of Poodles.

5. Dachshund 

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The name “Dachshund” means “badger dog” in German, but many people love to affectionately call these little hounds “wiener dogs” in reference to their long, sausage-like shape. The breed standard allows for both standard-sized and miniature varieties and includes three coat variations: smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired.

Did you know? 

These cute little dogs are grouped together with scent hounds in the UK and US, but are set apart in their own group within the Fédération Cynologique Internationale, or World Canine Federation.

4. Pomeranian 

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Often referred to simply as the “Pom,” this lovely little variety of the Spitz type was originally bred in northwest Poland and northeast Germany, and is often still referred to in Europe as the “Zwergspitz” or dwarf-spitz. These compact dogs make great companions and love engaging activities such as agility courses. Poms are also rather alert and receptive to obedience training.

Did you know? 

Queen Victoria owned an especially tiny Pomeranian, which kick-started the popularity of the smaller breed variations.

3. Toy Poodle 

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The official Poodle group comes in three formal breeds: the Standard Poodle, the Miniature Poodle, and the Toy Poodle. People often see Poodles as fancy show dogs above all else, but they’re actually the second most intelligent breed behind the Border Collie! Toy Poodles are especially spunky and love stimulating activities such as agility courses and puzzles.

Did you know? 

Poodles’ hair never stops growing! It must be consistently clipped and groomed in order to avoid matting and unhealthy skin conditions.

2. Jack Russell Terrier 

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The Jack Russell Terrier is a working breed that was originally formed for the purposes of hunting foxes in England. Some people misinterpret the Jack Russell’s cute appearance and adopt one expecting a mild-mannered lapdog. However, these dogs are fearless and require tons of activity in order to thrive! If Jack Russells are left alone, they’ll often create their own fun through destructive activities.

Did you know? 

Jack Russells often enjoy good health throughout their lives since they’ve been so carefully bred.

1. Chihuahua 

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The Chihuahua has the longest average lifespan of all domestic dog breeds. These petite, perky dogs are known for being some of the smallest in the world, but that doesn’t stop them from having big personalities! Chihuahuas can sometimes bond so intensely to a person that they’ll become aggressively loyal, exhibiting a level of fierce defensiveness that’s surprising for their size.

Did you know? 

One of the most famous Chihuahuas in the world serves as the Taco Bell mascot, delivering the well-known punchline “Yo quiero Taco Bell!”.