Which Dog Breeds Live the Longest?

When you bring a dog into your life, you hope for as many happy years together as possible. It’s completely natural to wonder which dogs live the longest, what dog has the longest lifespan, or even which dog (if any) has a lifespan of 20 years.

Different breeds have different lifespans, and several factors influence how long dogs live – from size and genetics to lifestyle and general health. This guide breaks everything down so you can understand what contributes to the longest-living dog breeds, and how you can help your dog stay healthy for as long as possible.

Jump to:

Most dogs live somewhere between 10 and 15 years, but this is only an average. Some breeds regularly exceed this, while others fall below it.

Smaller dogs generally live longer than larger ones. This may seem surprising – in the animal kingdom, bigger animals often outlive smaller ones – but dogs are an exception. Large breeds age more quickly, putting more strain on their bodies over time. Genetics, diet, exercise, and environment also play a role.

If you’re wondering which is the longest-living dog breed, small dogs tend to top the list. These breeds are often considered among the healthiest dog breeds, with fewer genetic complications and a slower overall ageing process.

Chihuahuas are one of the longest-living breeds of dog. Many live between 15 and 18 years, and some even reach their early twenties. Their tiny size puts less pressure on their joints and heart, contributing to impressive longevity.

Dachshunds regularly enjoy long lives, often 12–16 years or more. They do, however, require careful spine protection due to their long backs. With proper care, they’re lively, affectionate dogs that stay youthful well into old age.

Toy Poodles are widely recognised as intelligent, healthy dogs with a long lifespan. Many reach 14–18 years. Their low-shedding coats and sharp minds also make them a popular choice for families.

Jack Russells are energetic dogs with a reputation for remarkable longevity. Living 13–18 years is common, and they often remain active well into their senior years.

Some medium-sized dogs also have excellent lifespans, proving that you don’t have to choose a tiny companion to enjoy many years together.

With an average lifespan of 12–15 years, Cocker Spaniels are affectionate, people-oriented dogs. They may not top the chart for longest lifespan of a dog, but they regularly exceed expectations, especially when well cared for.

Border Collies typically live 12–16 years and are considered one of the healthiest dog breeds due to their high activity levels and robust build. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for these clever dogs.

Large dogs tend to have shorter lives, but some breeds are known for exceeding the typical big-dog lifespan.

While many large breeds struggle to reach double digits, Malamutes commonly live 10–14 years, which is impressive for their size. They require plenty of exercise and thrive in active homes.

Standard Poodles live 12–15 years, often outperforming other large dogs in terms of health and longevity. Their athletic build and intelligence reduce the likelihood of some age-related issues.

Even so, when comparing the longest life span across all breeds, large dogs rarely reach the same ages as smaller breeds.

The current record holder for the oldest dog ever is Bobi, a Portuguese Rafeiro do Alentejo who lived to an astonishing 30 years and 266 days. Before Bobi, the record was held by Bluey, an Australian Cattle Dog who lived to 29 years and 5 months, further adding to the Australian Cattle Dog’s reputation for remarkable longevity.

While these dogs are exceptional, several others have reached 20 years or more, often coming from smaller or medium-sized breeds or mixed-breed lines with particularly strong genetic foundations.

It’s equally important to understand which breeds may have shorter lifespans so you can prepare for the specific health challenges they may face. These dogs often have wonderful personalities but may experience more genetic issues or age-related complications.

Regardless of breed, several factors influence how long a dog lives. Here are some key contributors:

Size influences how quickly a dog’s body ages. Smaller dogs tend to have slower metabolic rates and place less strain on their organs and joints, which helps them stay healthier for longer. Larger breeds grow rapidly, and that fast growth can lead to earlier wear on the heart, bones, and other systems, which is why their lives are often shorter.

Genetics affects longevity in a similar way. Some breeds inherit stronger immune systems, fewer breed-specific health conditions, and a naturally slower ageing process. Others may be more prone to issues such as joint disease and certain cancers, which can reduce lifespan. Even within a breed, individual dogs may age differently depending on the genetic traits passed down from their parents.

Diet is one of the most important lifestyle factors. A well-balanced, species-appropriate diet supports long-term health and reduces the risk of obesity. Many people notice that dogs with excellent nutrition tend to remain active and well for longer.

Movement keeps joints healthy and helps maintain a balanced weight. Mental stimulation can also delay cognitive decline, contributing to a longer, healthier life.

Regular check-ups help catch problems early. Preventive treatments such as vaccinations and parasite control can also help extend a dog’s life.

Dogs reach their senior years at different times depending on their size:

As dogs age, you may notice changes in mobility, energy, and appetite. 

Indoor dogs tend to live longer because they face fewer dangers such as accidents, extreme weather, or exposure to infectious diseases. However, this doesn’t mean that indoor dogs can skip exercise. They still need daily movement and stimulation to thrive.

If you’re researching the dog breed with the least health problems, there are several breeds known for generally robust health, particularly mixed breeds. While no dog is entirely free of risk, breeds like Border Terriers, Australian Shepherds, and Beagles often appear on lists of healthiest dog breeds due to their strong genetic foundations.

Choosing a reputable breeder also has a major impact, as responsible breeders screen for conditions common in their breed.

Regardless of breed, there’s a lot you can do to improve your dog’s quality of life and support their longevity:

By supporting your dog’s physical and emotional health, you give them the best chance at a long, fulfilling life.

While learning about the longest-living dog breeds and the shortest-living dog breeds can be helpful, the most important thing is choosing a dog whose needs match your lifestyle. A long-lived breed will only thrive if you can meet its exercise, grooming, and companionship requirements.

No matter which breed you choose, your bond and care will shape their wellbeing more than anything else.

If you’d like to understand how nutrition affects a dog’s lifespan, overall wellbeing, and long-term health, you might enjoy our Canine Nutrition Diploma Course. At the moment, you can access the full course for a discounted price of £29!