7 Dog Breeds That Live The Longest & Their Common Health Issues

Dogs, our soulmates and companions who share their whole lives with us but for us, it's not our whole life but a part of it. When they leave us we feel empty and sad but their memories live forever in our hearts. Although dogs have a short lifespan, a few breeds live longer than others. Factors like care, health, diet also play a major role in a dog's life. Just like the longest living dog ever recorded was an Australian Cattle Dog named Bluey, who lived for around 30 years despite having an average lifespan of 13 to 15 years for the breed. Well ! Today, we are going to discuss 7 dog breeds that have a natural longer lifespan and also their common health problems that should be taken care of, so that they can live fully up to their age. Here's the list:

A mexican toy dog breed, which is also one of the smallest dog breeds around the world. The average lifespan of a chihuahua dog is 12 to 18 years, making them the longest living dog breed around the world. This breed is also prone to health conditions such as dental problems, heart conditions, dislocating kneecaps, eye problems, hypoglycemia, tracheal collapse, etc, that need to be kept in check with vet attention and self care.

A small dog breed with a cotton like coat and an average lifespan of 14 to 16 years. This dog is often called the “Royal Dog of Madagascar” due to its heritage. Common health issues for this breed include orthopedic problems like hip dysplasia, dislocating kneecaps, eye conditions, etc, that needs to be kept in check.


The smallest version of the poodle breed with an average lifespan between 12 to 18 years, this breed lives longer than large poodles but are prone to health issues like dental issues, slipping kneecaps, epilepsy, heart conditions, etc. that need care and attention.



A dog with a long body and short legs almost resembling a sausage. This dog has an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years with common health issues like Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), obesity, hip dysplasia, eye conditions, dental problems, epilepsy, etc. that needs to be kept in check by regular exercise and vet checkups.



Both these breeds are closely related, with Jack Russell having shorter legs with rectangular body and Parson having long legs with square built. They both have an average lifespan of 13 to 16 years with common health issues like eye problems, joint issues, prone to deafness, cushing’s disease, hemolytic anemia, etc. that needs to be checked and cared for.



A small dog breed with an average lifespan of 10 to 16 years. This is a classic lapdog with common health issues like dental problems, eye conditions, respiratory issues due to their flat faced structure and hip dysplasia, etc. that need special care and regular vet checkups.


A small non-sporting dog breed with an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years. This breed has common health issues like eye problems, glaucoma, joint issues, intervertebral disc disease, kidney dysfunction, etc. that needs to be cared for with vet attention and self care.

So, this was it, the list of dogs with long lifespans and common health issues that need regular care, attention and vet checkups. Mostly, these dog breeds are mixed breeds- increased longevity due to genetic diversity and small height- aging slower and being more active. Other factors also play a major role in a dog’s health such as diet, exercise, veterinary care, etc.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can dogs live until 40?
   No, a dog cannot live up to 40 years old. Although the oldest dog ever recorded lived just under up to 30 years, the average lifespan of a dog is 10-13 years old with some specific breeds stretching it up till 18 or 20.
2. Which dog breed lives the longest in India?
   The Indian Pariah, desi dog is one the longest living breed in India with an average lifespan of 15-16 years due to its adaptability, strong immunity and low maintenance. Although there are other breeds too like chihuahua, dachshund, etc. too making up to the mark.
3. What is the longest a dog has ever lived?
   The longest lived dog ever is 'Bluey' an Australian Cattle Dog, according to Guinness World Records. It lived around 29 years and 5 months old (7th June, 1910 - 14th November, 1939) and was from Texas, USA.