What are the longest living dog breeds? People like to know
what to expect from just about everything in their life, and
that includes how old their dog is going to get. While the
numbers quoted below are just an average, knowing that your
dog's breed generally lives 12-15 years can be comforting.
These are some breeds that are most likely to start using
tennis balls on the legs of their walker long after they stop
chasing them.
One of the oldest breeds of Terrier still with us, the Lakeland
Terrier is a lively, family friendly breed that loves to play
with kids for hours on end. A breed with coarse fur, they are
less prone to shedding than other
breeds, making them a great choice for someone with allergies,
or someone who simply wants less to clean up after. Normally
living 12 long years, this breed often surpasses that, often
living up to 16 years, so you'll likely have this pal around
for a long time.
A very smart and energetic breed, the Pomeranian is a world
renowned show breed, thanks to their illustrious coat and
bright demeanor. They are exceptionally smart dogs, which at
times can be a double-edged sword -- they are able to learn
tricks and commands well, but can also become a little headstrong. Given that
this breed can stay with you for up to 16 years, it pays to
train them right early on.
A token of good luck in their nation of origin, this 2,000 year
old breed is a real people pleaser -- these dogs form quick
bonds with everyone in the family. A great guard dog and loyal
companion, this breed might need a firm hand during training,
but the payoff is certainly worth the effort. With an average
lifespan of 14 years, this breed is sure to pick you up after a
rough day for years to come.
An incredibly popular little dog, the Yorkie makes for a great
companion in a wide variety of living situations. Smart, high
spirited, and loyal, the Yorkshire
Terrier is sure to sit by your side through thick and thin.
While they are nothing but loving with people, given their
background as a hunting dog, they are not naturally the best
friend for cats or other small animals (even taking on larger
dogs from time to time). Considering they can live 16 years or longer, they should be
socialized early if they are going to live with other pets.
A smart, loyal, strong, and sprightly breed, Manchester
Terriers love to play but have just as much fun taking
instructions. Forming strong bonds quickly, this breed is sure
to stand by your side for the duration, which can be upwards of
15 years! But be warned, their love may take some unusual,
destructive outlets in your
absence, so make sure to train them early to avoid years of
couch chewing.
Your quintessential hunting dog, this Terrier earned their
name, holding records in rat killing. One Rat Terrier
reportedly caught upwards of 2,500 rats in just seven hours!
Thanks to their hunting nature, these dogs might not be the
best companions for homes with cats, as they might see them as
prey. They are great with kids and
learn tricks well, but should be trained not to be
defensive, as they tend to get protective of their toys. If
they are properly trained, however, you can have 16+ years of
fun and love with one of these energetic pups, and some even
live to reach their 20s!
The Chihuahua takes the cake, routinely living to be 18 years
or more. Typically a one-person dog, they may be small in size,
but they have no shortage of personality. A frequent victim of
the small dog personality disorder, they are often allowed to
jump all over people and assert their dominance willy nilly,
making them think that they are top dog. It should be noted
that, while they are not typically great with kids, given the
right circumstance and some
training, these dogs can live in nearly any circumstance.
Also, given the fact that you might be living with them for
right around two decades, it is probably worth it to make sure
they behave.
Disappointed your breed didnโt make it the list? Don't fret!
Bluey, an
Australian Cattle Dog, lived to be 29, with their โaverage
lifespanโ being just 12-15 years -- and that was over 70 years
ago! Anything is possible.
Cats Who Don't Need 9 Lives: Longest Living Cat Breeds
Youโve probably heard the saying that cats have nine lives,
but some breeds stick around long enough to make one life
perfectly sufficient. These enduring cats tend to reach the
high end of the indoor cat lifespan of 13 to 17 years, and many thrive beyond
that. And while breed is certainly a factor, it is important
to also consider the level of care the cat is receiving.
Always remember to use year round preventative medication,
like Advantage Multi for
cats, and to provide them with quality food. If youโre
looking for a cat who is in it for the long haul, consider
one of these longest living
cat breeds.
These familiar felines account for 95% of the U.S. cat
population, and the fact that they arenโt purebred is
actually a health benefit. Their genetic diversity means that
these cats are protected from many hereditary diseases so
they can live well into their late teens or twenties. The
American Domestic comes in a variety of colors and patterns,
and because of their mixture of genes, their personalities
arenโt always easy to predict. In general, they tend to be
affectionate lap warmers.
The sleek, jet-black Bombay is a striking cat with a
friendly, active personality. These cats crave human
interaction and adore children, so they do well in family
environments. This breed has an average lifespan of 15 to 20
years, and they prefer to spend that time indoors.
These soft and satiny cats have an average lifespan of 18 to
20 years, but one famous Burmese named Kataleena Lady lived
to be 35 years old! This people-friendly breed is
communicative and very emotionalโso much so that they will
let you know if they are feeling blue. The Burmese gets along
wonderfully with children and other pets, so they make great
family members.
The calm and adorable Persian is famous for their long,
fluffy coat and squishy, flattened face. They have an average
lifespan of 15 to 20 years and enjoy cuddling up with their
favorite people, though they are not demanding of attention.
Siamese cats are known for their long lifespans of 16 to 20
years or more. They are extremely social and vocal cats who
love people and donโt like being left alone. They are also
intelligent and sometimes manipulative cats who always seem
to find a way onto a lap or into a game of fetch.
The hairless Sphynx is often referred to as a โvelcro kittyโ
because of the way they crave attention and follow their
owners around the house. These cats make excellent family
pets, and because they are hairless (or almost hairless),
they can be a great choice for allergy sufferers. While they
have an average lifespan of around 14 years, one famous
Sphynx named Grandpa lived to be 34 years old!
And the longest living cat on record? That would be
a tabby named Lucy,
who lived to be 39 years old! Take care of your cat and keep
up with regular visits to the
veterinarian, and you could find yourself with a Lucy of
your own.
More on Senior Dogs
Aging and Old Dog Behaviors
Everything You Need to Know About
Aging Dog Care
Nutrition for Your Senior
Dog
Lifespan of a Dog: A Dog
Years Chart By Breed
The 6
Oldest Dogs Ever
