Small dog breeds and their longevity: what is the secret?
Dogs always bring joy, warmth and inexhaustible love to the house. For many owners, the question of the longevity of the Pet becomes important long before the puppy appears. It is the small breeds that often amaze with their longevity and can accompany a person for 15-18 years, and sometimes even longer! What is their secret? Why are small dogs more likely to be long-lived than large breeds? It’s very simple: a small dog’s body is under less strain, they are less likely to suffer from cardiovascular and joint diseases, and their energy and curiosity help them stay young at any age.
But don’t forget that a long life depends on genetics and care. So what breeds of small dogs can give their owners the most happy years? Then – about 20 record-breaking long-livers among miniature Tails!
Top 20 small dog breeds with the longest life expectancy
Chihuahua
This tiny breed is a true record-breaking long-lived dog. Chihuahuas impress with their temperament: they are brave, very intelligent, adore the attention of the owner and are not afraid of even much larger dogs. Their energy and playfulness persists into old age.Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies are always on the rise, inquisitive and very attached to their family. Their silky coat requires meticulous grooming, but it is this characteristic that makes them adorable pets. Known for their longevity, Yorkies are able to be active and affectionate even at a venerable age.Pomeranian Spitz
Pomeranians are little lumps of joy with thick fluffy fur and a colorful personality. They are very sociable, attentive to the owner and are famous for excellent health. Their loyalty and resourcefulness often surprise even experienced dog owners.Toy Terrier
Despite their tiny size, these are dogs with a big soul! Toy Terriers love active games, are very affectionate, loyal and easy to bring up. They need a lot of tenderness, but they always enjoy a long life and inexhaustible optimism.Maltese Bolognese (Maltese)
The Maltese impresses with its snow-white coat, gracefulness and easy character. They get along well with children, are easy to train and rarely get sick. These dogs are loyal and kind, true companions for the whole family.Papillon
Known as “butterflies” because of their distinctive ears, Papillons are very intelligent and active. They learn new things quickly, love attention, and are easy to get along with children and other animals. Their health and vigor is preserved for many years.Shih Tzu
This breed is known for its independence and stubborn character, but at the same time Shih Tzu are very affectionate, loyal and well adapted to life in the city. They enjoy being close to their owner, and careful grooming of their coat makes them unique.Dwarf Poodle
Poodles are some of the smartest dogs, they are easy to train, always cheerful, and love to learn new tricks. They have almost no tendency to hereditary diseases and their coats are hypoallergenic. Social, fun-loving and love to be in the center of things.Pekingese
Pekingese have a royal posture, but at heart they are fun, playful and very loyal to their humans. They have a strong immune system, but it is important to watch their breathing and not overheat them in the heat. These dogs are well suited for apartment living.Jack Russell Terrier
These dogs are a real explosion of energy, they are always ready for adventure. Very active, they need regular walks and playtime. Jack Russells are adored by families with children – they are cheerful, strong and always optimistic.Italian Leurette
Leurettes are very graceful, slightly shy, but devoted to their family. They are sensitive to cold, so they need to create a cozy home. Easy to pick up, cheerful, they often stay in good physical shape well into old age.Bichon Frise
Miniature, extremely cute, Bichons don’t shed, are almost allergy-free, and find it very easy to get in touch with children. Their interesting appearance and cheerful nature make them ideal for families.Australian Terrier
Aussies are plucky little dogs that never sit still. They are very friendly, cheerful, love walks, easily adapt to different living conditions. They have good health and are very loyal to their owners.Tibetan Spaniel
These dogs are friendly, intelligent, very fond of coziness and the company of loved ones. They need affection and attention, and in return they give calmness and devotion. Tibetan spaniels rarely get sick and easily adapt to a new environment.Ratt Terrier
Rath Terriers are extremely hardy, fast and very intelligent. They love to play, are good with children, easy to train and willingly obey commands. They adapt well to life in the city and countryside.Japanese Hine
These dogs are gentle, graceful, love tranquility and always strive to be close to the owner. Hines are unpretentious in care, loyal and affectionate, and rarely get seriously ill.Russian Toy Terrier
Incredibly active and cheerful, Toychiks love to be in the center of attention. They need love, care and affection. With proper care, they are very hardy and healthy dogs.Affenpinscher
Witty, funny and very intelligent dogs with a cheerful expression on their faces. Affen love adventure, easily find common language with other animals, well tolerate even city life. They need regular grooming.Scotch Terrier (Scottish Terrier)
Scotchies are independent, intelligent and very loyal to their man. They have a strong character, love activity and get along well with children if they grow up in the company of people from childhood.Dwarf Schnauzer
This is a loyal friend who impresses with his intelligence and endurance. Dwarf Schnauzers love active games, lend themselves well to training, and can be easily adapted to any living conditions. They are strong and always ready to protect their family.
The main thing for a happy and long life is your love and care!
No life expectancy table guarantees that a Beloved will live exactly as long as it is written in the book or on the website. Genetics, breed – this is only part of the formula for longevity. The real secret is in the care, healthy diet, dog grooming, regular check-ups at the vet, interesting walks, calmness in the house and your sincere love. Even the smallest dog will live longer if you give him comfort, attention and support.
Remember: no matter how many years your doggie spends with you, every day, every moment with him is a priceless treasure. Enjoy every minute, give your doggy happiness and he will thank you with loyalty, love and cheerfulness until his last breath.
