Top 15 Dog Breeds With Longest Lifespan! (Photos & Videos)

Do you want a dog who will live forever? Well, maybe not forever, but a really long time compared to the average dog breed?

Well, you came to the right place. I have compiled a list of the top fifteen dog breeds in the American Kennel Club (AKC), with the longest life expectancy compared to all other dog breeds.

Let’s get started!

Dog Breeds With The Longest Lifespan

Here, you are going to find out about all the different reputations, characteristics, and traits of the longest-living breeds.

I have included charts, photos, and videos to help you learn as much as you can about the breed.

Check out the Q&A section at the bottom to learn even more about dogs and animals with long lifespans.

Top 15 Longest-Living Dog Breeds

Here is a quick peek at the list of long-living dogs:

1. Bichons Frises – Lifespan 14-15 years
2. Italian Greyhounds – Lifespan 14-15 years
3. American Hairless Terriers – Lifespan 14-16 years
4. Belgian Malinois – Lifespan 14-16 years
5. Chihuahuas – Lifespan 14-16 years
6. Havanese – Lifespan 14-16 years
7. Papillons – Lifespan 14-16 years
8. Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens – Lifespan 14-16 years
9. Pointers (German Wirehaired) – Lifespan 14-16 years
10. Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka – Lifespan 14-20 years
11. Tibetan Terriers – Lifespan 15-16 years
12. Manchester Terriers Standard – Lifespan 15-17 years
13. Lagotto Romagnolo – Lifespan 15-17 years
14. Coton de Tulear – Lifespan 15-19 years
15. Pyrenean Shepherds – Lifespan 17-19 years

Want to know how every breed stacks up against one another when it comes to longest-living? Check out this ranked list of every dog breed – All 201 Amazing Dog Breeds Ranked By Lifespan: Shortest to Longest!

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a cheerful and affectionate breed with a life expectancy of 14 to 15 years. These dogs were formally known as the Barbichon types, and were divided into three categories: Maltais, Bolognais, and Havanais.

These ancient breeds, King Henry III of France (1574–1589) had a Bichon, are believed to have started their modern development in Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands. A particular breed on the island gained immense popularity among the island’s sailors, earning the name Bichon Tenerife. This breed serves as the primary ancestor of the dog we know today.

The breed received official recognition from the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1972.

Bichons Frise Facts Chart

Bichons Frise Video

Watch this video about some amazing Bichon Frise breed facts.

Looking for a dog who is great with kids? We have a great resource where we rank every dog breed based on how well they do with kids – Best Dog Breeds For Kids Ranked: Find The Best Of 199+ Puppies!

Italian Greyhounds

The Italian Greyhound, with a life expectancy of 14 to 15 years, is a small, sleek, and agile breed with a storied history stretching back over 2,000 years.

Originating from Mediterranean countries, especially Greece and Turkey, this breed later made its way to Italy during the Middle Ages, where its popularity soared.

This breed was officially recognized by the AKC in 1886.

Italian Greyhound Facts Chart

Italian Greyhound Video

Watch this video about some excellent Italian Greyhound breed facts.

American Hairless Terriers

The American Hairless Terrier, a unique breed with a life expectancy of 14 to 16 years, is a direct descendant of the Rat Terrier. Its origins can be traced back to a single Rat Terrier puppy born in Louisiana in 1972. Remarkably, this puppy was entirely hairless, unlike the breed’s usual coarse coat. Intrigued by this anomaly, its owners, Edwin and Willie Scott, named her Josephine.

Recognizing her uniqueness, the Scotts decided to breed Josephine to replicate her hairless trait. In 1981, Josephine gave birth to two hairless puppies, marking the inception of the American Hairless Terrier breed. Known for its hairless skin, lively personality, and hypoallergenic qualities, it’s an excellent choice for those with allergies. The AKC recognized the breed in 2016.

American Hairless Terrier Facts Chart

American Hairless Terriers Video

Watch this video about some fantastic American Hairless Terriers breed facts.

Need a small hypoallergenic dog breed? Check out this article – 15 Best Small & Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds Under 30 lbs (With Photos)

Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois, with a life expectancy of 14 to 16 years, is an active and intelligent breed that hails from the city of Malines in the northwestern region of Belgium, which gives the breed its name. They are one of four Belgian herding breeds and were primarily used for herding and guarding sheep at the end of the 19th century.

Belgian Malinois dogs are renowned for their incredible work ethic, agility, and dedication. Due to these traits, they quickly garnered attention from the international community. By the early 20th century, Belgian Malinois were bred in the United States and officially recognized as a distinct breed by the AKC in 1959.

Belgian Malinois Fact Chart

Belgian Malinois Video

Watch this video about some amazing Belgian Malinois breed facts.

Chihuahuas

Chihuahuas, with a life expectancy of 14 to 16 years, the smallest dog breed and named for the Mexican state of Chihuahua, have a history that’s a bit of a mystery. It’s believed that Chihuahuas are descendants of the Techichi, a companion dog favored by the ancient Toltec civilization in Mexico.

The AKC officially recognized Chihuahuas as a breed in 1904. Today, Chihuahuas are cherished pets in households worldwide, offering their unmistakable blend of sass and sweetness to those lucky enough to share their homes with them.

Chihuahua Facts Chart

Chihuahua Video

Watch this video about some epic Chihuahua breed facts.

Havanese

The Havanese dog breed, with a life expectancy of 14 to 16 years, is synonymous with warmth and vibrancy that hails from the sunny shores of Cuba, particularly the capital, Havana — hence the name.

This breed’s lineage can be traced back to the Bichon family of dogs, descending from the Bichon Tenerife that found its way to Cuba with Spanish settlers. During the 18th century, the Havanese became highly sought after by Cuban aristocracy, earning the nickname “Havana Silk Dog” due to its silky, soft coat.

The AKC officially recognized the Havanese in 1996. Today, the Havanese is loved for its sociable demeanor, intelligence, and adaptability, making it a great family pet.

Havanese Facts Chart

Havanese Video

Watch this video about some amazing Havanese breed facts.

Looking for a family pet who is small in size? Check out this article – 33 Affectionate Dog Breeds Perfect For Apartment Living! (With Pictures)

Papillons

The Papillon, with a life expectancy of 14 to 16 years, is known for its distinctive butterfly-like ears and has a rich and storied history that stretches back for centuries.

The name “Papillon” is a French term meaning “butterfly,” which perfectly describes this breed’s unique, erect, fringed ears that resemble a butterfly’s wings. This breed has roots in the toy spaniels that were popular in Europe, particularly in Italy, from the 16th to 18th centuries. In fact, Papillions used to be called Dwarf Spaniels.

The breed eventually made its way to the United States, where it was recognized by the AKC in 1915. Today, the Papillon is cherished for its companionable nature, agility, and striking good looks, making it a popular choice for dog lovers worldwide.

Papillon Facts Chart

Papillon Video

Watch this video about some Papillon breed facts.

Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens

The Petits Bassets Griffons Vendeens, with a life expectancy of 14 to 16 years, is a small, robust French breed known for its keen sense of smell and lively nature.

The PBGV, hailing from the Vendée region of France, was initially bred for hunting small game in the rugged and dense terrain of the French countryside. The name Petits Bassets Griffons Vendeens translates to “small, low, wirehaired dogs from Vendée.”

It wasn’t until the 19th century that the breed was officially recognized and standardized in France. The PBGV made its way into American homes in the late 20th century, and the AKC officially recognized the breed in 1990.

Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens Facts Chart

Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens Video

Watch this video about some Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens breed facts.

German Wirehaired Pointers

The German Wirehaired Pointer, with a life expectancy of 14 to 16 years, is a versatile and hardworking breed that originated in Germany during the late 19th century. Its creation was motivated by the need for a dog that was proficient in hunting both on land and in water, regardless of the weather conditions.

The breed is a result of careful crossbreeding between the Pointer for its keen nose and speed and the Poodle for its intelligence and love of water. Other breeds, such as the Foxhound and the Griffon, were also introduced in the mix to enhance stamina and ruggedness.

German Wirehaired Pointer Facts Chart

German Wirehaired Pointers Video

Watch this video about some amazing German Wirehaired Pointer breed facts.

Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka

Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka’s origin story dates back to the 18th century when they were bred for companionship and as lapdogs by the Russian aristocracy.

The Tsvetnaya Bolonka, with a life expectancy of 14 to 20 years, is a mix between the Bichon Frise and various local Russian breeds. This combination of genes has resulted in a small but sturdy dog with an affectionate personality that loves human attention. Plus, making it one of the longest-living dog breed.

The breed made its way to Germany and the United States in the mid-20th century when Russian refugees brought their beloved Tsvetnaya Bolonka with them. The AKC officially placed the breed in its Foundation Stock Service in February 2015.

Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka Facts Chart

Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka Video

Watch this video about some amazing Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka breed facts.

Want a low-energy dog breed? Check out this article – 201 Dog Breeds Ranked By Energy Level – Find Your Perfect Pup!

Tibetan Terriers

The Tibetan Terrier, with a life expectancy of 15 to 16 years, has an origin story based on ancient Tibetan mythology, which states that the breed was a gift from heaven. For centuries, these long-haired companions were kept by monks in Tibet for their excellent luck charm properties and were reserved exclusively for Tibetan nobility.

The breed made its way to Europe around the 1900s and was introduced to the United States in 1956.

The AKC officially recognized the Tibetan Terrier in 1973. Known for their equable dispositions and intelligence, these dogs are highly popular as family pets. They excel at agility courses and are often used as therapy dogs due to their friendly demeanor.

Tibetan Terrier Facts Chart

Tibetan Terrier Video

Watch this video about some amazing Tibetan Terrier breed facts.

Manchester Terriers

The Manchester Terrier, with a life expectancy of 15 to 17 years, is named after the industrial city of Manchester in England. It has a rich historical background that dates back to the early 19th century.

Originally bred for the utilitarian purpose of rat catching and rabbit hunting, this breed is known for its agility, keenness, and courage.

During the Victorian era, they became popular as companions owing to their loyalty and affectionate nature. They were introduced to America in the late 19th century and gained recognition by the AKC in 1887.

Manchester Terrier Facts Chart

Manchester Terriers Video

Watch this video about some amazing Manchester Terrier breed facts.

Lagotto Romagnolo

The Lagotto Romagnolo, with a life expectancy of 15 to 17 years, is often referred to as the “Italian Truffle Dog,”. The Lagotto has a rich origin story rooted in the Romagna sub-region of Italy. Bred primarily as a water retriever in the marshlands of Romagna, this breed gained prominence for its exceptional truffle hunting abilities. This shift marked the transformation of the Lagotto Romagnolo’s role from a waterfowl retriever to a dedicated truffle hunter.

The Lagotto Romagnolo was introduced to the United States in the 1990s and was officially recognized by the AKC in 2015.

Today, besides being excellent truffle hunters and companion dogs, they also excel in various dog sports like obedience, agility, and rally. Their curly coat and lovable personalities continue to win hearts worldwide.

Lagotto Romagnolo Facts Chart

Lagotto Romagnolo Video

Watch this video about some awesome Lagotto Romagnolo breed facts.

Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear, with a life expectancy of 15 to 19 years, is affectionately known as the “Royal Dog of Madagascar.” The breed has a fascinating history steeped in the island of Madagascar. The breed’s origin traces back to the 17th century when it’s believed that small white dogs, survivors of a shipwreck, swam to shore and mated with local dogs, resulting in the emergence of the Coton de Tulear.

The breed was introduced to Europe and the United States in the late 20th century and quickly gained popularity due to its sociable, playful nature and low-shedding coat. The AKC officially recognized the Coton de Tulear in 2014.

Today, this devoted breed is known for its friendly demeanor, being extremely loyal, high intelligence, and energetic spirit.

Coton de Tulear Facts Chart

Coton de Tulear Video

Watch this video about some extraordinary Coton de Tulear breed facts.

Pyrenean Shepherds

The Pyrenean Shepherd, with a long lifespan of 17 to 19 years, is commonly referred to as the “Shepherd of the Pyrenees” and has a deep-rooted history in the Pyrenees Mountains of Southern France.

This long living dog breed is agile, and intelligent dogs were primarily bred to herd sheep in the rugged mountainous terrain, and their keen herding instincts have been well-documented for centuries.

Their compact size, boundless energy, and intense focus made them excellent sheepdogs, adept at maneuvering large flocks over rugged terrain.

Pyrenean Shepherd Facts Chart

Pyrenean Shepherds Video

Watch this video about some notable Pyrenean Shepherd breed facts.

Dog Breed Lifespan Q&A

What is the average life expectancy of dogs in general?

The average life expectancy for any dog is 12.72 years. In comparison, the median age of a dog is 12 years. However, your dog’s life expectancy depends on many factors, such as breed type, genetics, overall pet health conditions, nutrition, and more.

See more information about dog breed lifespans with charts and facts in this article – All 201 Amazing Dog Breeds Ranked By Lifespan: Shortest to Longest!

Who lives longer, male or female dogs?

Female dogs generally have a longer lifespan compared to males, typically by around six months, if we don’t consider neutering.

This information comes from a research paper by Jessica Hoffman where she wanted to answer the question, Do Female Dogs Age Differently Than Male Dogs?

In contrast to humans, the study observed that a dogs’ sex had only a nominal influence on their lifespan. When comparing the survival rates of neutered and intact dogs, it was observed that intact dogs showed a marginal advantage in survival, whereas neutered dogs demonstrated a significant survival advantage.

What are three uncommon ways to increase the life expectancy of a dog?

Dental Hygiene: According to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, studies indicate that 80-90% of dogs over three years of age have some form of periodontal dental disease. It’s more common in smaller breeds and increases with age.

While I could find no formal studies indicating longevity increase, there is definitely a health benefit to having a healthy mouth as a dog.

Spaying or Neutering: A study conducted by Banfield Pet Hospitals on a database of 2.2 million dogs it was concluded that male dogs that were neutered lived 18% longer, while female dogs that were spayed lived 23% longer.

Avoid Being Overweight: A study has revealed that overweight dogs may have lifespans up to 2.5 years shorter than dogs of standard size. This finding underscores the importance of maintaining a healthy weight for our furry companions.

Among the twelve breeds examined, Yorkshire Terriers showed the strongest correlation. The study analyzed 4,065 Yorkies and found that normal-weight Yorkies lived an average of 16.2 years, while overweight Yorkies had a reduced life expectancy of only 13.7 years.

Which dog holds the record for being the longest-living in the Guinness Book of World Records?

Bobi, a Rafeiro do Alentejo dog, is the world’s oldest dog at 30 years and 266 days. The previous titleholder, Bluey, an Australian cattle dog born in 1910, lived for 29 years and five months. Bobi’s longevity highlights the love and care provided by his owners, reminding us of the incredible bond we share with our furry companions.

What is the average lifespan of other animals compared to dogs?

Below is a compilation of 10 beloved animals that are often kept as pets, along with their respective lifespans. Please note that these lifespan estimates are general and can vary based on the specific breed of a rabbit, for example. I was truly astonished by the lifespan of one particular creature – the goldfish!

Easy Ways To Keep Your Long-Living Dog Healthy

Here are some easy ways for pet parents to maintain their dog’s health:

1. Balanced Diet: Feed your dog a balanced diet, rich in essential nutrients. Opt for high-quality commercial dog food or take advice from a vet about a homemade diet.
2. Regular Exercise: Regular walks, playtime, or other forms of physical activity are crucial for your dog’s health and longevity. It keeps your dog’s weight in check and helps with mental stimulation.
3. Preventive Care: Regular checks for parasites like fleas, ticks, and heartworms and timely vaccinations significantly contribute to a dog’s health.
4. Veterinary Care: Regular veterinary exams can identify potential health issues early, ensuring timely treatment and better outcomes.
5. Grooming: Regular grooming, including brushing your dog’s fur, trimming its nails, and keeping their ears clean, can help prevent infections and other health issues.

Remember, each dog is different, and what works for one might not work for another. Therefore, it’s essential to understand your dog’s specific needs and consult a veterinarian for personalized advice.

Final Thoughts

So, if you want a loyal companion who will be around for an extended period of time, consider adopting one of these fantastic long-lived dog breeds.

Make sure to do plenty of research before getting a dog breed that best suits your lifestyle and will be able to go the distance with you for years to come!

Want to know how every breed stacks up against one another when it comes to longest-living? Check out this ranked list of every dog breed – All 201 Amazing Dog Breeds Ranked By Lifespan: Shortest to Longest!