We’re a nation of dog lovers, with the vet charity PSDA finding in 2024 that 28% of UK adults have a dog.
That means there are a whopping 10.6 million pet dogs in the UK, with many more wanting to welcome a dog into the family. There are 223 different breeds of pedigree dogs, so there’s lots to take into consideration when choosing.
If you have small kids at home you’ll want to pick ones that tend to be calm and tolerant, if you live in a flat you might want a small breed, and if you have allergies you also need to take that into consideration. But another factor many may want to take into account is lifespan.
It’s a sad fact of life that dogs don’t live as long as humans, and it can be devastating when the family pet passes away. But there are some breeds that tend to live longer on average. South Africa-based vet Amir Anwary, who often takes to TikTok to offer help and and tips, has shared the top five dogs with the longest lifespans, ranging from 12 to 20 years.
5. Miniature Schnauzer
According to Amir, Miniature Schnauzers live on average between 12 to 16 years. This is a lively, active, small breed of dog, native to Germany.
With the right amount of mental stimulation and exercise, they are just as happy living in a city flat as a big country home, which makes them a popular choice for dog owners. While they can be feisty and scrappy when confronted with dogs they don’t know, the PDSA say they are “playful and inquisitive dogs”, and can “get on well with children if they’re introduced at an early age”.
According to Hills Pet, Miniature Schnauzers “age gracefully”, and as long as no helth problems occur, don’t usually show signs of ageing until later in life.
4. Dachshund
Dachshunds live for an average of 12 to 16 years, according to Amir. Originally bred for hunting, and with a surprisingly large bark and plenty of energy, the Dachshund is bright, loyal and couragous.
If they are well socialised from a young age, they can also get on well with children, as well as cats. To make sure they live for as long as possible, it’s important to have regular playtime, as well as walks.
According to Pet Plan, Dachshunds have a lot of energy for a small breed, so it’s important they get plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Although they tend to live longer than other breeds, there are certain health conditions that affect them more than others. For example, they are more prone to back problems.
3. Jack Russell
If taken care of properly, Jack Russells can live between 13 to 18 years, according to Amir. The Jack Russell is one of the most popular breeds in the UK, and they can be energetic, friendly and cheeky. They have a strong desire to work, and as they are naturally assertive they may not be tolerant to young children and other animals.
According to Hills Pet, they need a lot of exercise, and although they are a pretty healthy breed overall, they can be prone to a few select joint problems due to their constant movement.
2. Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles live on average between 14 and 18 years, according to Amir. They are a lively and active breed who loves to spend time with their owners.
Poodles come in all shapes and sizes, but Toy Poodles are usually no more than 10 inches. They are extremely intelligent, highly trainable and learn new things very quickly. They are also very adaptable, which means they are happy living in a city as well as the countryside.
Most of them live long, happy lives if taken care of properly, but there are some known issues, such as hip dysplasia and eye disorders.
1. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas can live between 15 and 20 years, according to Amir. They are the world’s smallest dogs, but make good companions as they bond strongly with their owners, are quick-witted and easily trained if you start early.
They are popular breeds due to their size and loving, energetic nature, and while they might be known as lap dogs, they can also be active and full of personality. Although they can live long and healthy lives, they are prone to certain health conditions, such as hip dysplasia and eye problems.
To make sure your dog has a long lifespan you need to keep your pup happu and healthy. Be on the lookout for any health issues, take them to the vet regularly for checkups, as well as if you notice anything concerning.
