These Dog Breeds Have the Longest Lifespans

Beagle Dog on Leash in Woods
Photo: Getty/darrya

As dog owners, we are nearly as loyal to our pups as they are to us. They integrate into our families, sometimes for up to 20 years of our lives, a constant companion never far from our sides. Eventually, as with all things, there comes a time when all dogs must cross the rainbow bridge, but today we're introducing you to a few breeds that are known for their longevity. Meet the longest lifespan dog breeds.

01 of 08

Chihuahua

Chihuahua Dog Running Across Grass
Getty/Purple Collar Pet Photography

Small dog breeds, like the Chihuahua, tend to have a longer life span. The scientific reason behind life longevity is largely unknown, but large dog breeds age at a faster rate. Weighing in at under six pounds, a chihuahua can live anywhere from 14 to 18 years on average.

02 of 08

Dachshund

Dachshund Puppy Dog with Ball
Getty/Ian Payne

Besides being low-shedding, dachshunds are also one of the longest living dog breeds out there. Their short legs remain on the move for 12 to 16 years, giving your family plenty of time to enjoy their company.

03 of 08

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever Dog Smiles on Bench Outdoors
Getty/Purple Collar Pet Photography

It's rare to find a big dog that lives long, which is why it likely comes as no surprise that there's only one large breed dog on our list. The friendly Labrador retriever is known for its sociable energy and overall health. The lovable lab can live on average from 10 to 12 years, remaining active well into their late adulthood.

04 of 08

Beagle

Beagle Dog on Leash in Woods
Getty/darrya

This nose to the ground breed keeps a sharp mind by sniffing the world around them. According to Daily Paws, beagles are known to live between 10 to 15 years. They tend to be generally healthy, too!

05 of 08

Mixed Breeds

Scruffy Dog Looking Up
Getty/Purple Collar Pet Photography

This next breed might surprise you! Yes, mixed breeds are one of the longest living dog breeds. Purebred dogs carry genes down their bloodline that have the potential to result in health problems while a mixed-breed dog, affectionately known as a mutt, doesn't. Instead, his genetic make-up varies.

06 of 08

Pomeranian

Pomeranian Dog Sitting on Bench
Getty/Denis Ganenko / 500px

Since Pomeranians only weigh between three and seven pounds, we can deduce that, like chihuahuas, they will have longer life spans. They live on average anywhere from 12 to 16 years, and are known to be sharp and perky throughout their lives.

07 of 08

Pug

Pug Running Through Grass
Getty/Alfredas Pliadis / EyeEm

While pugs can carry their fair share of respiratory problems due to their flat-faces, they still live long, happy lives. Remarkably, they can live up to 15 years. Since pugs are prone to obesity, you can boost a pug's life longevity by keeping him fit and well fed. Try incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables, like blueberries, instead of treats.

08 of 08

Toy Poodle

Toy Poodle Sitting on Stack of Folded Towels
Getty/Sappington Todd

Toy poodles, known for their natural hypoallergenic, no-shed coats, are also one of the longest living dog breeds. They can live up to 18 years.

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Sources
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  1. Hulbert AJ, Pamplona R, Buffenstein R, Buttemer WA. Life and death: Metabolic rate, membrane composition, and life span of Animals. Physiological Reviews. 2007;87(4):1175-1213. doi:10.1152/physrev.00047.2006

  2. Gilman, A. Beagle, Daily Paws.

  3. Packer RM, Tivers M. Strategies for the management and prevention of conformation-related respiratory disorders in brachycephalic dogs. Vet Med (Auckl). 2015;6:219-232. doi: 10.2147/VMRR.S60475

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