One of the most disappointing downsides of living with dogs is their short lifespan. If you want a dog to enjoy for a very long time, you can considerably up your chances for a long-time companion by choosing a breed that ranks high in the longevity department. Following are some dog breeds who seemed to be genetically programmed to live longer. Of course, don’t forget to add to the equation the role of a good diet and health!
Chihuahua
Pomeranian
Dachshund
Shih Tzu
Yorkshire Terrier
Toy Poodles
Maltese
Lhasa Apso
Pug
Miniature Schnauzer
Australian Cattle Dogs
This Mexican breed is tiny, but it sure is a tough cookie who likes to stick around for a long time. It’s not unheard of for some Chihuahuas to live even up to 20 years!
This fellow with a Nordic look belongs to the Spitz family. It’s hard to resist this breed’s teddy-bear looks and spunky personalities. Expect to have a Pom as a friend for at least 15 years.
Often affectionately nicknamed the “sausage dog,” as the name implies this breed is characterized by a long body. Even though the dachshund is predisposed to back problems, this breed is blessed with a fairly long lifespan averaging around 12 to 17 years.
With a history dating back to the Chinese emperors, this breed sure boasts quite an intriguing past. Often seen in show ring displaying impressive hairdos, expect this companion to stick around up to 18 years.
A terrier at heart, the Yorkie loves to dig, bark and chase little critters. Don’t be fooled by this breed’s small size; these dogs think they’re big and tough fellows. Those who adore Yorkies will be happy to learn that they can live on average anywhere between 17 and 20 years!
Often a favorite among allergy sufferers, toy poodles are blessed with the same coats as the larger poodles but they come in a smaller, compact size. The playful antics and tricks of toy poodles can be enjoyed for an average of 12 to 15 years.
If you have a weak spot for small white dogs, you can’t miss the Maltese. Originating from the island of Malta, these eye-catching pooches who seem to float around the show ring, have a life expectancy ranging between 12 and 15 years.
This ancient breed made an excellent watchdog for the Buddhist temples in Tibet. You may not see this breed much around, but when they are around, they stick around for quite some time! Expect to enjoy them for 12 to 15 years.
These goofy dogs who love to entertain their owners with their clownish antics boast an ancient Chinese heritage. Not only these dogs live long, they retain juvenile traits for most of their lifetime. Expect to enjoy life with a pug for about 12 to 15 years.
If you love dogs with a mustache and beard, you can’t go wrong with the schnauzer. The schnauzer comes in three breed sizes, but the miniature schnauzer is known for its appealing lifespan averaging between 12 and 15 years.
You didn’t expect to see a dog this size make the list, did you? This breed deserves a spot of honor since Bluey, the Australian cattle dog, has won the Guinness world record for the longest life span. How old was this dog? A remarkable 29 years old. On average though expect this breed to live about 12 to 15 years.