15 Longest Living Dog Breeds (With Pictures)

Life Span: 16 Years

Papillons are petite, standing 8 to 11 inches at the shoulder and weighing 5 to 10 pounds. They have a fine-boned build, a well-proportioned body, a characteristic plumed tail that arches gracefully over their back, and are the longest life dog.

The Papillon's most distinctive trait is its wide, fringed ears that mimic butterfly wings, hence the breed's name. The coat is smooth, straight, and dense, with a prominent fur ruff around the neck.

They are an excellent and committed companion, bringing joy to their owners with their attractive appearance and kind behavior. Whether competing in agility events or relaxing on a lap, the Papillon is a versatile and affectionate breed that has earned a position as a beloved member of many families.

Life Span: 14 to 16 years

The Chihuahua, named after the Mexican state of that exact name, is a little toy dog breed with a lot of personality. These dogs, weighing between 2 and 6 pounds and standing 6 to 9 inches tall, are distinguished by their small stature and attentive face.

Their wide, round eyes and unusual apple-shaped heads add to their cute appearance. One of the long-living dogs, Chihuahuas, comes in various coat types, including smooth, long-haired, and even the occasional rough coat.

They are frequently aggressive, confident, and loyal regardless of their size.

Life Span: 12-16 years

The Dachshund, often affectionately called the Wiener-Dog, is a small to medium-sized breed with a distinctive long body and short legs. Originating from Germany, Dachshunds were initially bred for hunting purposes, particularly for tracking and hunting small game like badgers.

They come in three coat varieties: smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired, and can exhibit a range of colors and patterns.

Despite their small stature, they are known for their courage and tenacity. Dachshunds are often loyal and form strong bonds with their owners, making them delightful and loving companions.

Life Span: 12–15 years

The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, packs a big personality in a tiny package. Standing just 7-8 inches tall, these feisty charmers boast long, silky coats of steel blue and tan that flow like their namesake river.

Yorkies are bold, alert, fiercely loyal, and ready to take on the world (or your ankles) with playful enthusiasm. Despite their independent streak, they crave attention and affection, becoming devoted companions known for their cuddly moments.

While their luxurious coats demand regular brushing, their small size makes them adaptable to apartment living. This pint-sized pup has a big bark and an even bigger love to share.

Life Span: 14 to 16 years

Pomeranians, or Poms, pack a fluffy punch in a pint-sized package and are long-living dog breeds. These 3-7 pound dynamos boast a dazzling double coat, from fiery orange to snowy white, that demands daily brushing (but earns endless compliments).

Poms are playful goofballs, always up for a game or a cuddle on the couch. Though fiercely loyal, they can have a sassy side, barking with gusto at anything (or anyone) they deem suspicious.

Despite their independent streak, they crave attention and thrive on being your shadow. If you can handle the brush and the occasional bark, a Pom's love and laughter will fill your life with sunshine.

Life Span: 13 to 15 years

The Australian Cattle Dog, hailing from Down Under, is a robust and intelligent breed known for its herding abilities. This medium-sized dog, weighing 35-50 pounds, boasts a distinctive blue or red coat with speckles.

Renowned for its agility and endurance, the Australian Cattle Dog is a devoted and loyal companion. With a strong work ethic, they excel in various dog sports and activities.

Bluey, Australia's longest-lived dog, entered the Guinness Book of World Records at 29 years and five months, becoming the world's oldest dog.

The record was set in 1939 and is still standing; however, numerous Australian Cattle Dogs have attempted to break it by living lengthy lives of their own.

Life Span: 16 years

Toy Poodles, the smallest breed of this exquisite breed, are prized for their diminutive size and endearing personality. Poodles, weighing between 4 and 8 pounds and standing 10 inches or less, are distinguished by their curly, hypoallergenic coat, which comes in multiple color choices.

They are intelligent and trainable, excelling at obedience and agility activities. Despite their small appearance, Toy Poodles are confident and active, developing close ties with their owners.

They are known for their attentiveness and sociability, making them ideal companions for singles and families.

Life Span: 16 years

The Jack Russell Terrier, a passionate and athletic breed, was developed in England for fox hunting. These dogs are compact and muscular, measuring 13-17 pounds and reaching 10-15 inches tall, with a striking white coat with tan or black patterns.

They are intelligent and energetic friends. Their active personality necessitates regular exercise and mental stimulation. With a strong prey drive, they excel at agility and obedience.

Jack Russells are confident, tenacious, and friendly despite their small size. Socialization is essential in regulating their forceful nature. Their loyalty and agility make them ideal companions for active persons and families.

Life Span: 15 years

The Beagle, a tiny to medium-sized dog, is known for its loving nature and keen sense of smell. Beagles weigh 20-30 pounds and stand 13-15 inches tall.

They have a short, thick coat and expressive eyes. Originating as hunting dogs, they have unlimited activity and a strong sense of smell, making them ideal scent hounds.

Beagles are noted for their friendly demeanor, making them great family pets. Their fun personality and compassionate demeanor make them especially good with youngsters.

Life Span: 10 to 16 years

The Shih Tzu, a majestic beauty with flowing hair and heart-melting eyes, has captured hearts for generations. Standing 8-11 inches long and weighing 9-16 pounds, these little lions (as their name translates) have a surprisingly large personality.

Their most remarkable characteristic is their luxuriant double coat, which comes in various colors and designs. Daily brushing is essential for maintaining its appearance and preventing matting. Their expressive faces, with wide, dark eyes and a flat nose, reveal their moods beneath the fur.

Shih Tzus are fun and affectionate companions with a mild, even temperament. They thrive on attention and like cuddling on the couch, making them ideal lapdogs.

Life Span: 14 years

The Maltese, a toy breed renowned for its beautiful beauty, is a petite and charming companion dog with a long, silky coat that falls gracefully. These dogs weigh between 4 and 7 pounds and are 8 to 10 inches tall. They are also dogs with longevity.

They have a unique white coat that requires frequent grooming. Maltese dogs have a lively and energetic personality and are charming, friendly, and loyal to their owners.

They originated in the Mediterranean and have been treasured as lapdogs for ages. Despite their small size, Maltese dogs are confident and adapt well to various living situations, making them delightful and caring additions to families looking for a portable and devoted canine companion.

Life Span: 12 to 14 years

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a regal lapdog with a heart of gold, has silky fur (chestnut, black and white, or tricolor) and soulful eyes that melt hearts.

Despite their diminutive size (13-18 lbs), their playful energy shines through, making them ideal companions for walks, hugs, and agility! They are kind and friendly, desire attention, and thrive on human interaction.

While their lengthy locks demand daily brushing, their easygoing demeanor and adjustable size make them ideal for different lifestyles, so if you want a lovely, loyal buddy with a bit of regal flair.

Life Span: 12 to 15 years

The Lhasa Apso, a small but strong dog breed from Tibet, is recognized for its long, flowing coat and alert disposition. These canines stand roughly 10-11 inches tall and weigh 12-18 pounds. Also, they are among the dogs that live long lives.

They have a striking lion-like mane around their neck. Lhasa Apsos are known for their independence and confidence, and their loyalty makes them superb watchdogs.

Their beautiful beauty, accented by dark, expressive eyes, necessitates frequent brushing to keep the coat healthy and prevent matting.

Despite their regal look, Lhasa Apsos are affectionate with their families, demonstrating a combination of charm, agility, and a vibrant personality that appeals to dog lovers worldwide.

Life Span: 12 to 14 years

The Samoyed, a medium to large-sized Arctic breed originating in Siberia, is known for its nice white coat and friendly attitude. These fluffy dogs, which stand 19-23.5 inches tall and weigh 50-65 pounds, are noted for their pleasant "Sammy smile," accompanied by dark, almond-shaped eyes.

They are social, friendly, and great with families, with a natural fondness for youngsters. Their thick, double hair necessitates regular brushing to prevent matting, but their pleasant demeanor and adaptability make them ideal companions.

Samoyeds, which originated as sled dogs, are strong and enthusiastic, enjoying physical and mental challenges. They are also dogs that live the longest.

Life Span: 13 to 15 years

The Schipperke, hailing from Belgium, is a compact and lively breed known for its distinct fox-like appearance and spirited personality. It is the dog that lives the longest.

Standing at 10-13 inches and weighing 10-16 pounds, these dogs boast a thick double coat with a notable ruff and a characteristic cape along their back.

Intelligent and independent, Schipperkes are excellent watchdogs, displaying loyalty and affection to their families. Their alert nature makes them reserved with strangers but committed to their owners.

Regular exercise and mental stimulation are crucial for these agile dogs, who excel in various activities like agility and obedience. Proper grooming, including regular brushing and care of ears, teeth, and nails, ensures the Schipperke's overall health and well-being.