How Old Is The Oldest Dog? 15 Dogs Who Have Long Lifespans

As anyone who has had and loved a dog will tell you, the only terrible thing about dogs is that they don’t live as long as people.

But things are changing, with dogs living longer than ever before. With pet education, proper diet, exercise, and lifestyle, pet parents are able to help their fur kids live happier, healthier, and longer lives.

Still, after suffering the trauma of watching my beloved childhood dog age and then eventually pass away, I vowed never to get another dog again. The pain was just too great.

Of course, my dog loving spirit could only keep that promise for so long. Two years and one puppy later, I was adopting again in my late dog’s honor.

I did things differently the second time around. Granted, I was no longer six years old and had access to a computer and therefore research, but I also knew a lot more about dogs, dog breeds, and dog health, and I put that knowledge to use when picking the right dog for me.

My goal? To raise a healthy dog who had a decent lifespan and would also fit in well with my family and lifestyle.

If you are like me, and especially if you have suffered the heartache of losing a beloved dog, then you too may find yourself looking for dogs who have longer lifespans and are, in general, healthier dogs altogether.

But just how old is the oldest dog in the world, and what kind of breed was he?

Let’s find out.

How Old Is The Oldest Dog?

The oldest dog in the world was an Australian Cattle dog like the one pictured above.

I’ll admit it. When I started researching the oldest dog in the world, I thought the breed was going to be a Poodle or a mix of some kind.

Poodles have long lifespans, as we’ll learn more about below, and mixes and mutts have long been rumored to be healthier than purebreds. Of course, this is still a controversial theory.

Alas if the dog was neither a Poodle or a mutt or mix, it was at least going to be a very small dog, right? I mean, we all know that small dogs tend to live longer than medium and large dogs. It’s just common knowledge.

Wrong again, my friend. The oldest dog on record, according to research, was an Australian Kelpie by the name of Maggie.

That’s right. Maggie was a medium-sized purebred who passed away in her sleep at her home in Victoria, Australia at the ripe old age of 30 years old.

Unfortunately, Maggie can’t officially hold the record for the oldest dog in the world because her owner had misplaced her papers years earlier.

So, how old is the oldest dog on official record? Runner up (or official record holder, depending on how you look at it) is Bluey, an Australian Cattle dog who, like Maggie, lived in Victoria, Australia.

Wow! Two dogs living to nearly 30 years old! What’s their secret?

While Maggie passed recently, her counterpart Bluey was born over a century ago in 1910, which means we can’t blame the technology and medical breakthroughs of our current times for his long life.

So, aside from the theory that Victoria, Australia is home to some kind of doggy fountain of youth, we have to think it has something to do with the fact that both pups were raised on farms.

This means these two working breeds got to live out their purpose as working herding dogs, which, as anyone with a herding breed knows, probably means Bluey and Maggie were just living their very best doggy lives each and every day.

But there are a few other nuggets of wisdom we can pull from these two dogs’  lives and apply to our own pets’ lives today to help them live healthier and, of course,  longer.

Exercise, for one thing, is important for any dog. As a farm dog and especially as a cattle herding dog, Bluey and Maggie likely got their fair share of daily exercise. They were also kept mentally and physically stimulated.

With that being said, there are genetics, environment, diet, and other lifestyle details we don’t know much about when it comes to Bluey and Maggie so the rest we can only speculate on.

But does this mean if you want your dog to live until he’s 30 you should get an Australian Kelpie or an Australian Cattle Dog?

Probably not. A dog living to be 30 years old is still (and very unfortunately) unlikely. The good news is that there are certain breeds who do have longer lifespans than others.

Will any of these dog breeds fit into your home and lifestyle or be right for you?

That’s what we are here to find out! Join me as we learn about 15 dogs who have long lifespans and see if any of these purebred pups would be the right companion for you.

Let’s get started.

1. The Toy Poodle

The Toy Poodle has a lifespan of up to 18 years!

Average Lifespan: 10 – 18 Years

Temperament: Smart, Outgoing, Happy, Athletic

Weight: 4 – 6 Pounds

Coat Type: Hypoallergenic

Common Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, eye issues, Idiopathic epilepsy, von Willebrand’s disease, sebaceous adenitis, immune-mediated disorders, luxating patellas, and Legg-Calve-Perthes

Pros: Toy Poodle dogs are for the most part healthy who live long lives, get along well with families of all ages, and are clever and eager to please.

Cons: Toy Poodles are very small and can be prone to injury if handled too roughly, especially by very small children. Poodles also tend to have a high prey drive and should be taught a solid recall early on.

Let’s Learn More About the Toy Poodle!

Famous for his flamboyant, hypoallergenic coat, intelligent mind, and eagerness to learn and please, the Poodle has been a longtime favorite amongst nobles and commoners alike.

This fanciful pup, who hails from humble working beginnings, is an athletic, outgoing dog who enjoys hanging out with his family as much as he loves partaking in dog sports and playtime.

He will need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy but, in general, Poodles live long, healthy lives.

2. The Beagle

Beagles are not only adorable, but they have great life spans as well! 

Average Lifespan: 10 – 15 Years

Temperament: Sweet, Inquisitive, Joyful, Fun-Loving

Weight: 15 -30 Pounds

Coat Type: Double-coated, shedding

Common Health Issues: Obesity, patellar luxation, epilepsy, glaucoma, central progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, chondrodysplasia, cherry eye, distichiasis, keratoconjunctivitis sicca

Pros: Beagles are great with children and love their families. They are enthusiastic, playful companions who enjoy going on walks and hikes.

Cons: Beagles can be stubborn and are known to be jumpy and vocal. Their short coats also shed so they are not the best dogs for those who suffer from allergies.

Let’s Learn More About the Beagle!

The Beagle, with his adorable long ears, earnest eyes, and mischievous nature, is a fabulous addition to homes with kiddos. He is energetic, athletic, and outgoing, and will enjoy family time and being around people.

This is a dog who can be stubborn, though, so early training and socialization is a must. The Beagle comes from a hunting background and will need consistent exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

3. The Australian Shepherd

The gorgeous Aussie also has a gorgeously long  lifespan! 

Average Lifespan: 12 – 15 Years

Temperament: Intelligent, Work-Minded, Athletic, Independant

Weight: 40 – 65 Pounds

Coat Type: Double-coated, shedding

Common Health Issues: Epilepsy, hip dysplasia, cataracts, cancers, ear infections, and dental issues

Pros: Australian Shepherds are famously intelligent. They are agile and athletic and are excellent additions to active families who have plenty of time to train and exercise them.

Cons: The Aussie is an independent thinker with serious herding instinct. He may be prone to herding little kids and smaller household pets around the house. He also needs some serious exercise and consistent mental stimulation to keep him from becoming destructive.

Let’s Learn More About the Australian Shepherd!

Although his name may suggest that he hails from Australia, the truth is that the beautiful Australian Shepherd is actually an American breed perfected in California during the days of the Wild West.

Known affectionately as a Cowboy’s best friend, the Aussie is a tried and true herding dog with incredible intelligence, stamina, and drive.

He will do best in homes with owners who are able to commit to a dog with such an intense working background and who are able to keep their Australian Shepherd properly exercised and mentally stimulated with brain games or puzzle toys.

If left to his own devices without exercise or mental stimulation, the Aussie will become bored, depressed, and destructive. So, along with offering their Aussie routine exercise and mental stimulation, owners should also make sure they dog proof their homes.

4. The Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog currently holds the record for the oldest living dog.  

Average Lifespan: 12 – 16 Years

Temperament: Focused, Happy, Work-Oriented, Inquisitive

Weight: 35 – 50 Pounds

Coat Type: Double-coated, shedding

Common Health Issues: Deafness, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, ear infections, and oral issues.

Pros: The Australian Cattle Dog is known for his enthusiasm and intelligence. He is a happy and pleasant dog when properly trained and exercised.

Cons: The Australian Cattle Dog requires lots of exercise each and every day and should be given jobs to do in order to stay happy. Training and mental stimulation should be a constant and fun presence in his life.

Let’s Learn More About the Australian Cattle Dog!

The Australian Cattle Dog is a wild looking, true cattle dog at heart. This intelligent breed needs lots of exercise and is best for homes where his owners are prepared for a dog with his kind of enthusiasm and zest.

Australian Cattle Dogs are farm dogs at heart and are happiest when they have jobs to do. Owners may opt to train their dog o how to help out around the home with chores like sorting laundry, bringing in the mail, and even helping to load the dishwasher.

This is a pooch who will need an active role in the household to stay happy and can become bored and destructive if not properly exercised and mentally stimulated.

5. The Shih Tzu

Who wouldn’t want this adorable face around for as long as possible? 

Average Lifespan: 10 – 18 Years

Temperament: Loving, Playful, Curious, Friendly

Weight: 9 – 16 Pounds

Coat Type: Hypoallergenic

Common Health Issues: Patellar luxation, hp dysplasia, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, retinal detachment, corneal dryness, and corneal inflammation.

Pros: Shih Tzus are bred companion dogs and make wonderful snugglers. They love to play and enjoy being around their people. Plus, their hypoallergenic coat makes them great choices for those who suffer from allergies.

Cons: Shih Tzu dogs are very family oriented and can become depressed if left alone for too long. They have been known to suffer from separation anxiety and can be destructive if not properly trained and socialized. House training can also be a challenge with this small breed.

Let’s Learn More About the Shih Tzu!

The tiny Shih Tzu is an ancient and beloved breed who hails from China and was bred solely as a companion dog. As such, this sweet-faced pup will love nothing more than being around his favorite people and snuggling up on laps.

Due to his small size, the Shih Tzu can be prone to injury if handled too roughly and is best suited for homes with older, more respectful children.

6. The Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is another sweet-faced breed with an even sweeter life expectancy! 

Average Lifespan: 12 – 15 Years

Temperament: Funny, Intelligent, Outgoing

Weight: 12 – 18 Pounds

Coat Type: Hypoallergenic

Common Health Issues: Hereditary kidney dysfunction, dry eye, slipping stifles, hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and cherry eye.

Pros: The Lhasa Apso is a family-friendly dog who loves his people and will keep them laughing. He has a hypoallergenic coat and, due to his small size, only needs moderate exercise.

Cons: Lhasa Apsos are known to be class clowns in front of their family, but they are reserved with strangers and take some time warming up.

Let’s Learn More About the Lhasa Apso!

Ancient and beautiful, the regal Lhasa Apso is appropriately adorable when around his family and friends. He loves to do funny things and makes those he loves most laugh non-stop!

This is an adoring dog who is both affectionate and playful, but he can be reserved with strangers and will make you earn his trust.

Early socialization and training are key to making sure the Lhasa Apso grows up happy, healthy, and well rounded.

7. The Chihuahua

The Chihuahua may be small but he has a great, big lifespan!

Average Lifespan: 14 – 16 Years

Temperament: Spunky, Spirited, Human-Like, Clever

Weight: Under 6 Pounds

Coat Type: The Chihuahua comes in both long coated and short coated varieties and he is a shedding dog.å

Common Health Issues: Patent ductus arteriosus, mitral valve disease, eye disease, idiopathic epilepsy, and patellar luxation.

Pros: Chihuahuas are small dogs with big personalities! They become very attached to their person and enjoy being the apple of your eye.

Cons: Chihuahua dogs can be territorial and stubborn. They are not patient dogs and are not recommended for small children as they won’t tolerate being handled roughly and can be a bit nippy.

Let’s Learn More About the Chihuahua!

The brave and mighty and oh-so-tiny Chihuahua is a fan favorite for many small dog breed lovers and for good reason!

This tiny but spirited breed is packed full of fun. He loves his family with all his little heart and will keep those around him laughing and astonished by his charming nature.

He is active in spite of his small size but a bit of playtime indoors or out will get him the exercise he needs. Chihuahuas are sweet, funny, and cute, but they are certainly not the best dogs for homes with small children.

They can be easily prone to injury due to their small size and have been known to nip and bite at little ones who handle them when they don’t want to be handled.

8. The Jack Russell Terrier

We are so glad that the clever and spunky Jack Russell Terrier is on this list!

Average Lifespan: 13 – 15 Years

Temperament: Athletic, Smart, Curious, Mischievous

Weight: 13 – 17 Pounds

Coat Type: Two coat types: smooth and rough. He also sheds.

Common Health Issues: Patellar luxation, congenital deafness, late onset ataxia, eye disorders, and spinocerebellar ataxia.

Pros: Jack Russell Terriers are highly intelligent and athletic dogs. They are wonderful for busy, active families who want a fun and playful dog to join them on adventures.

Cons: Due to his intelligence, the Jack Russell needs plenty of exercise and lots of mental stimulation or he can be prone to destructive behaviors.

Let’s Learn More About the Jack Russell Terrier!

The Jack Russell Terrier is a terrier at heart and has all the terrier tendencies. Clever, stubborn, and vocal, the Jack Russell will keep his family on their toes.

He has a big personality and is fun and fun loving, but this little dog needs lots of work early on to ensure he grows up happy, healthy, and well mannered.

The Jack Russell Terrier will do best with positive reinforcement training methods like treats and praise and will enjoy learning new tricks and taking part in doggy sports like obedience.

9. The Dachshund

The little Dachshund stole our hearts so we are super glad he has a long lifespan.

Average Lifespan: 12 – 16 Years

Temperament: Spriited, Outgoing, Friendly, Curious

Weight: (Miniature) Under 11 Pounds. (Standard) 16 – 32 Pounds.

Coat Type: Dachshunds have three coat types: smooth coat, longhaired, and wirehaired. All three coat types shed.

Common Health Issues: Back issues, heart issues, Patella luxation, obesity, and ear infections.

Pros: Dachshunds come in two different sizes and three different coat types. They are intelligent and affectionate and enjoy being with their families.

Cons: Because of their short legs and long bodies, Dachshunds can be prone to back injuries. They need lots of exercise and training. They are also known to be independent and stubborn, making training somewhat challenging for some.

Let’s Learn More About the Dachshund!

The intelligent yet independent Dachshund makes for a wonderful family dog for the right family. He is not only adorable but he is loaded with personality! This spirited little breed may not realize how small he is and can be prone to being vocal.

He needs lots of exercise, training, and playtime to stay happy and healthy and his weight should be monitored throughout his lifetime. The Dachshund will need a healthy diet as obesity can increase his risk of back injury.

10. The Pomeranian

Who knew that the darling Pomeranian would have such a great life expectancy? 

Average Lifespan: 12 – 16 Years

Temperament: Curious, Outgoing, Spirited, Affectionate.

Weight: 3 – 7 Pounds

Coat Type: Double-coated, shedding

Common Health Issues: Hypothyroidism, luxating patellas, collapsing tracheas, seizures, congestive heart failure, and alopecia X.

Pros: The Pom makes for a fabulous lap dog but he also enjoys being active and having fun! He is as beautiful as he is loving and makes for an alert, intelligent companion.

Cons: Very small Poms can be easily injured just by doing daily activities like jumping from beds or couches. They can also be difficult to housebreak and require lots of training early on using positive reinforcement methods.

Let’s Learn More About the Pomeranian!

Famous for his gorgeous, fluffy coat, the tiny Pomeranian is anything but bouji. This beautiful but fun-loving breed is all about learning new tricks and playing games. He will also love snuggling on your lap and giving you all of his affections.

However, Pomeranians are especially fragile, and the smaller they are the more at risk they are of injury. For this reason, Pomeranians are not recommended for homes with very small children.

11. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Queen Elizabeth loves the Corgi and you know what? So do we!

Average Lifespan: 12 – 13 Years

Temperament: Loving, Intelligent, Focused, Playful

Weight: 28 – 30 Pounds

Coat Type: Double coated, shedding

Common Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, eye disorders, degenerative myelopathy, cardiac problems, and von Willebrand’s disease.

Pros: Pembroke Welsh Corgis are intelligent and eager to please. They are easy to train so long as owners use positive reinforcement methods and keep learning fun.

Cons: Corgis shed heavily and require lots of brushing. They also need plenty of exercise but can be prone to suffering in extreme weather conditions and will need to be monitored during exercise.

Let’s Learn More About the Pembroke Welsh Corgi!

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a favorite of the Queen’s and it’s easy to see why! This spirited, loving, and outgoing little breed is one of the world’s most popular herding and companion dogs.

Intelligent, active, and alert, the Corgi has won the world’s heart with his happy disposition, eagerness to please, and fun-loving, affectionate nature.

12. The Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkie is a small, hypoallergenic dog breed who makes for a wonderful companion. Oh, and he also has a great lifespan!

Average Lifespan: 11 – 15 Years

Temperament: Outgoing, Spirited, Loving, Courageous

Weight: Under 7 Pounds

Coat Type: Hypoallergenic

Common Health Issues: Luxating patella, eye anomalies, and dislocated kneecaps.

Pros: The tiny Yorkie is full of personality and adoration for his people. He is an affectionate, intelligent companion who makes an excellent therapy or support dog if properly trained.

Cons: The Yorkshire Terrier can be vocal and stubborn. He is prone to injury due to his small size and he needs lots of socialization and training early on to ensure he grows up happy, confident, and well-rounded.

Let’s Learn More About the Yorkshire Terrier!

The Yorkshire Terrier may look prissy and pretty, but there is something devilishly charming and tomboyish about this spirited breed.

Bred as an exterminator of sorts, the Yorkshire Terrier was once used to keep rats and other pests from factories. As such, he is bold and courageous and has a strong prey drive.

The Yorkie should be given a solid recall early on and will need a lot of training and socialization to grow up confident, happy, and well rounded.

13. The Collie

The intelligent Collie is famous for his role in films, but did you also know he has a decent lifespan? 

Average Lifespan: 12 – 14 Years

Temperament: Loyal, Intelligent, Proud

Weight: 50 – 75 Pounds

Coat Type: The Collie comes in both smooth and rough coat types. Both types are shedding.

Common Health Issues: Collie eye anomaly, and MDR1 mutation or sensitivity to some drugs.

Pros: Collies are devoted, loving dogs who enjoy being with their families and make wonderful companions to active, outgoing families who have lots of time to spend with them.

Cons: Collies can become easily bored if left alone and are prone to barking. They need a good amount of exercise and don’t enjoy being left on their own too often.

Let’s Learn More About the Collie!

The Collie, made famous by the Lassie TV show, is a loyal, loving family dog who is just as beloved in real life as on television.

This is an outgoing breed who does need a good amount of exercise but also knows when to relax and just enjoy a good nap.

They make wonderful companions and adapt to a variety of living situations and lifestyles so long as their exercise needs are met and they are kept mentally and physically stimulated.

14. The Miniature Schnauzer

We love that the miniature Schnauzer is known to be a healthy and long-living breed.

Average Lifespan: 12 – 15 Years

Temperament: Intelligent, Devoted, Eager to Please, Friendly

Weight: 11 – 20 Pounds

Coat Type: Hypoallergenic

Common Health Issues: Cataracts, pancreatitis, hyperlipidemia, liver shunts, urinary stones, and dental issues.

Pros: Miniature Schnauzers are great family dogs and do well with children of all ages. They are eager to please and easy to train and enjoy family and other household pets.

Cons: The Miniature Schnauzer comes from a hunting background and can have a very high prey drive. They should be trained and socialized early on and given a solid recall.

Let’s Learn More About the Miniature Schnauzer!

The Miniature Schnauzer is a handsome, athletic, and friendly dog who does well in families of all different types! Outgoing and affectionate, the Miniature Schnauzer is both portable and compact, making him a great companion for families with kiddos and other household pets.

With positive reinforcement methods like treats and praise, the Miniature Schnauzer is easy to train and eager to please.

15. The Shiba Inu

There is no dog quite like the beautiful and devoted Shiba Inu. 

Average Lifespan: 13 – 16 Years

Temperament: Athletic, Focused, Good-Natured

Weight: 17 – 23 Pounds

Coat Type: Shedding

Common Health Issues: Allergies, hip dysplasia, eye issues, and patella luxation.

Pros: Shiba Inus are loyal and loving dogs. They enjoy being with their families and are calm, requiring only moderate amounts of daily exercise.

Cons: The Shiba Inu is a very heavy shedder who can be prone to a number of skin conditions due to allergies. Shiba Inus are also known to suffer from separation anxiety and have a very high prey drive.

Let’s Learn More About the Shiba Inu!

The Shiba Inu is an ancient Japanese dog originally bred for hunting. They are beautiful, intelligent, and devoted companions who require moderate but daily exercise and should be trained and socialized early on to reduce any unwanted behavior problems and to ensure they grow up happy and healthy.

Shiba Inu dogs are known for their prey drive and therefore should not be walked without a leash and harness. They should also be monitored around open doors and backyards should be secured with high fences and locked gates to help keep Shiba Inus safe and sound.

Can You Prolonging Your Dog’s LIfespan? Here Are Our Tips On Raising The Healthiest Dog Possible

Your dog’s lifespan can depend on a number of things, but there are some ways you can help prolong it.

It’s true that genetics do play a role in your dog’s lifespan, but there are a few things you can do to help keep your dog living his best and longest life.

Lifestyle, for starters, is extremely important. A happy dog is a healthy dog, especially when you consider that stress and depression lead to serious health issues in pups like weakened immune systems and other illnesses that can decrease lifespan.

A dog who is properly exercised and kept mentally stimulated is going to be a happy and healthy pup. Make sure you understand your dog and his breed or mix, and that you are offering him the right amount of exercise and mental stimulation he needs to thrive.

Along with exercise and mental stimulation, dogs who are fed a high quality diet tend to have a healthier weight, a healthier body, and of course, a longer lifespan.

Make sure you are feeding your dog according to his age, weight, and activity level, and that his dog food is of high quality ingredients with the right amount of proteins, carbs, and vitamins and minerals.

Proper grooming will also help keep your pooch in ship shape, so make sure you clean his ears regularly, brush his teeth, and keep his skin and coat healthy by using the proper grooming tools and high quality dog shampoos and conditioners.

Last but not least, keep up with routine veterinary visits and make sure your dog is up to date on his vaccines and other preventative medications to keep him feeling his best.

Do you have other secrets on how you can help our dogs live happier, healthier, and longer lives? Let us in on your tips and tricks in the comment section below!