Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/dog-breeds-that-live-longest/

We do what we can to provide a happy and healthy life for our pet dogs. After all, we want them to be with us for a very long time. It turns out, there is something you can do that may help your pet to live longer; choosing the breed of dog that lives the longest.

The 10 dog breeds in the list below have the longest lifespans on average. Although there are some larger dogs in the mix, most of the dogs are smaller because they tend to live the longest. These are average numbers, so just keep that in mind.

New Guinea Singing Dog – 18-year lifespan

New Guinea Singing Dog by night - 10 Dog Breeds That Live The Longest
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Not only is this breed the longest living in the world, but it is also the rarest dog breed. About 100 of these dogs are living in homes worldwide and they are considered to be one of the most primitive companion dogs today.

Chihuahua – 17-year lifespan

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Photo: pixy

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Not only are Chihuahuas a small dog, but they also are one of the longest living. They have very few genetic issues, which may lead to their long lifespan.

Cockapoo – 16-year lifespan

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Photo: Wikimedia Commons

This breed is a cross between a poodle and a cocker spaniel. Cocker spaniels are not necessarily long-lived but poodles are, which may have led to their long lifespan.

Jack Russell Terrier – 16-year lifespan

Dog Jack Russell Terrier green grass - 10 Dog Breeds That Live The Longest
Photo: pixy

If you’ve ever had a Jack Russell in your life, you know that they have plenty of energy. Maybe that is why they live so long because it takes a long time for them to wind down.

Maltese – 15-year lifespan

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Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Maltese are expected to live long because they don’t have many genetic issues. Females live about a year longer than males.

Beagle – 15-year lifespan

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Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Not only are beagles adorable, but they also tend to stick around for a long time.

Australian Shepherd – 15-year lifespan

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Photo: Pixabay

If you are looking for an active dog with a long lifespan, these herding dogs are near the top of the list.

Shih Tzu – 15-year lifespan

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Photo: Pixabay

These dogs were originally bred for royalty. They would sit on the lap of kings and queens, and perhaps it is the luxury living that allows them to live so long.

Lhasa Apso – 15-year lifespan

Lhasaapso - 10 Dog Breeds That Live The Longest
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

These little dogs make great lap dogs and companions. They tend to love their family but they take time to warm up to strangers.

Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog