What Dog Breed Lives The Longest?
When you’re picking out a dog to join your family, it’s only human to’ wonder how long you two will have together. Every dog is a little different, but science and statistics have suggested that certain breeds tend to live longer than others. So, which dog breed lives the longest, and what are the factors that keep them around for so long? So let’s analyze the data, the reasons for it, and what you can do to help your dog breed to live a long, happy life.
The Champions of The Art of the Dog
Chihuahua: The Tiny Little Dog With an Oversized Lifespan
If you’re looking for a breed that has the longest average lifespan, consider the Chihuahua. These tiny dogs commonly live to 15 and even 17 years of age, with the odd peer documented reaching beyond 20 years. Their minuscule stature as well as robust genetics and inherited lack of disease put them on the fast track to live longer than most other breeds. Chihuahuas are alert, active and very loyal – they make fabulous fun and long-lived companions.
Other Long-Lived Breeds
And although Chihuahuas often take the No. 1 slot, several other breeds are among those who have distinguished themselves with excellent longevity:
- Toy Poodle: 14–18 years. Toy Poodles are highly intelligent and versatile – and one of the heaviest of the small breeds2.
- Jack Russell Terrier: 13-16 years. These sturdy, brave dogs are less at risk for the degenerative diseases that plague their larger relatives.
- Shih Tzu: 10–18 years. Bred to be a royal lapdog, Shih Tzus are sweet and make great pets for all ages.
- Dachshund: 12–16 years. Although they have long backs that require occasional pampering to avoid injury, Dachshunds frequently reach their teens.
- Yorkshire Terrier: 11 to 15 years. These small terriers are hardy and loving dogs that tend to live well into their senior years.
- Papillon: 13–15 years. With their butterfly ears and boundless energy, Papillons are as adorable as they are long-living.
Why Do Small Dogs Live Longer Than Large Dogs?
This thing with a dog’s size and how its length of life is related is interesting. In the world of animals, larger species tend to be longer-lived, but in dogs the reverse is true. Small breeds such as Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Yorkshire Terriers frequently live up to about five years longer than their larger family members.
Why? It is believed that large dogs age at a faster rate. They do so while their bodies are rapidly expanding, which potentially leaves them more vulnerable to normal cell growth gone wrong and diseases linked to aging – like cancer. Smaller dogs, meanwhile, have slower metabolic rates and fewer genes in their DNA splitting the deck toward serious health problems.
Record-Holders: The Oldest Dogs In The World
But despite averaging a number, every now and then one piano-seeking dog stands out. Verified oldest The greatest reliably recorded age was “Bluey”, an Australian Cattle Dog who lived to 29 years and 160 days. Exceptionally long-lived people also include:
- Toby Keith (Chihuahua): 23 years, 112 days.
- Hilarious (Dachshund); 21 years, 178 days old.
- Pebbles (Toy Fox Terrier): 22 years 189 days.
These are rarer cases that highlight the possibility of long life, especially among certain breeds.
What Dog Breed Lives The Longest
What A Guide About How Long Do Dogs Live?
Though breed and size also owe much to longevity, there are a few other factors that play a major part in how long a dog lives:
- Genetics – purebred (inbred) dogs suffer more genetic illnesses; mixed breeds, having a wider gene pool, show a longer lifespan.
- Diet and Weight: Obesity is a strong risk factor for multiple diseases. Keeping your dog healthy and eating a well-balanced diet can help them live years longer.
- Activity: Ongoing physical and mental engagement helps to keep dogs fit and sharp, minimizing age-related decline.
- Veterinarian visits: Regular vet examination, shots, and teeth cleaning help catch any problems before they get serious.
- Spaying/Neutering: There is some research to indicate that spayed females outlive their unfixed counterparts; the effects in males are more mixed.
FAQs
How long does a small dog live?
Small dog breeds typically live between 10 to 16 years, however, some can live longer, such as a Chihuahua or a Toy Poodle to up to 17 or more.
Do mixed breed dogs live longer than pure breeds?
Generally, yes. The risk of falling prey to genetic disorder that are common to certain breeds is less for mutt dogs, which can improve their life expectancy.
Are there medium to large healthy breeds which live to a ripe old age?
Most giant breeds are not quite as long lived as the Aussie or Border Collie, but Pinney says medium size breeds do tend to live longer, with life spans between 12 and 16 years–and there are patterns in those lifespans as well. The Australian Cattle Dog, for example, has the longest recorded life-span: 29 years of Bluey.
Is there any way to prolong my dog’s life?
You can’t do anything about your dog’s genetics, but you can help push the envelope on aging with good nutrition, regular exercise, preventive veterinary care and maintaining a healthy weight.
What health issues are common in long-lived breeds?
Small dogs may be vulnerable to dental disease, heart concerns and some organ issues as they get older. Regular visits to the vet, and to the groomer for teeth cleaning, are a must in these dogs.
Final Thought
Picking a dog is a serious decision and understanding what breeds are known for longevity can guide the choice. The best bet for a lifelong companion is small breeds like Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, Jack Russell Terriers and other small breeds. Of course, every dog is an individual, and the love, care, and attention you give is often every bit as much, if not more, of a factor than genetics. Apis also originated from her research. After all, whether you have years with your dog or just a short but happy time together, the memories you build can last a lifetime. What Dog Breed Lives The Longest
