Dog Breeds That Live the Longest
TobyKeith may sound like a new country music star, but he’s actually a sprightly Chihuahua who recently broke the record in the Guiness Book of World Records as the oldest dog alive. TobyKeith is 21 years old and still going strong thanks to a daily walk, cuddles, and some turkey treats. So what’s the secret to having such a long lasting pup? It could be snacks and snuggles, or it could be that Chihuahuas are one of the breeds who have the longest life spans. Here are some of the other breeds who might be with you for a long, long time.
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Age Span: 12-14 years
These lively dogs may be prone to patellar luxation (loose kneecaps), deafness, and eye disease, but they are also known for long lives, sometimes even making it for decades. One Jack Russell named Meg became famous in Britain years ago for living to 25 years old, apparently thanks to a diet of Peppa Pig pasta and fish fingers, proving that sometimes it’s just all in the genes.
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Age Span: 10-15 Years
Beagles are typically fun and energetic dogs that are known for their expressive voice. Their flappy ears are more prone to ear infections than other breeds, and need to be checked often. Otherwise, the breed is not unique in their afflictions. Hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, luxating patella (dislocated kneecaps), and eye disorders are all conditions that can affect a number of breeds, including Beagles.
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Age Span: 11-15 Years
This is another tiny breed that thinks its one of the big dogs. These little firecrackers can live a long time, so be prepared to care for this pup for years to come. As they age, owners especially need to watch out for dislocated knee caps in these dog’s little legs.
Age Span: 12-15 Years
These sinewy pups can live a long time. Despite their mini Greyhound body, they actually can be quite lazy as house pets. That’s why it’s important for their bones and body structure that they don’t become too overweight as they get older, which can lead to painful and expensive orthopedic problems.
Age Span: 14-15 Years
They may be small, but what they lack in size they make up for in spirit. Bichons are known for being sturdy fluffballs who are adaptable to a number of situations and settings, which is definitely a plus for longevity. Some Bichons seem to be prone to tooth loss and gum infections, so be sure to give their teeth regular cleanings.
Age Span: 12-16 Years
This working dog is also famous for making records due to its long lifespan. Before TobyKeith took over, the oldest known dog in the world was a Cattle Dog from Australia, named Bluey, who lived to 30 years old. Aussies can be prone to deafness, vision loss and hip dysplasia, but are generally healthy and active dogs.
Age Span: 12-16 Years
This spunky little breed is 300 years old, harkening back to Germany when these dogs were used to hunt badgers. Perhaps that’s why they’re so sturdy and can have such a long life, despite their tiny legs and extra-long torsos. One thing Dachshunds are prone to is disc damage in their backs, which is why it's important for them to stay a healthy weight and get enough exercise.
Age Span: 12-16 years
Smiley and vivacious, these little dogs make wonderfully happy companions for years. That said, there are number of conditions a poorly-bred Pomeranian can experience: luxating patellas (kneecaps that slip out of place), hypothyroidism, collapsing tracheas, congestive heart failure, seizures, and alopecia X (black skin disease). But don’t be scared off, because with good care you might be one of the lucky few to own a “Pom” who lives to over the age of 20; there have been numerous Poms documented to reach this age, and it’s even rumored that one of the survivors of the Titanic was a 22-year-old Pomeranian. Their hearts must go on and on.
Age Span: 14-16 years
These small but mighty pups have one of the longest life spans of any breed, as the aforementioned TobyKeith has proven. Maybe it’s because they are one of the most ancient breeds, spanning back to Aztec times in the 12th century. As Chihuahuas age, they may be susceptible to heart problems like mitral valve disease, eye disease, and loose kneecaps.
Age Span: 10-18 years
Whether it’s a tiny toy or a stately standard, poodles of all sizes are known to live up to 18 years, making it the one of the largest breeds on this list with the ability to live a long time. Poodles are truly people dogs who love to be with their owners and be part of the daily happenings. Some health problems poodles can experience as they age include orthopedic issues for the smallest sizes, and a tendency to bloat, or have the stomach twist, in larger poodles.
Age Span: 13-18 years
Nicknamed the “Dr. Seuss” dog due to its resemblance to the dogs drawn by the famous author, this interesting-looking breed can live for nearly two decades. Just keep their hairless bodies protected from the elements — if you love the idea of dressing your pet, then this is your dog. Chinese Cresteds are prone to some health issues, such as eye problems including glaucoma, and some even can suffer from epilepsy, so it’s a good idea to get this breed from a reputable breeder for the most healthy pup.
