One of life's greatest tragedies is that our sweet and loyal four-legged friends don't live as long as we do. While there are no guarantees in life, the dog breeds in this gallery are known for their longevity. Typically, smaller breeds tend to live longer, but there are a few medium-size dogs that are known for their lengthy lifespan. It's important to note, however, that there are certain factors that play into the lifespan of dogs, including size, breed, and lifestyle.
So if you're looking for a fur baby that will stick around for a long time, check out the following slides.
With an average life expectancy of 14 years, this breed became popular in 1888 when Queen Victoria fell in love with one in Florence, Italy, which she then brought back to England.
Known for their intelligence, these canines are great for first-time dog owners and inexperienced trainers. Their lifespan is around 13 years.
A traditional hunting dog, this friendly pup has melted the hearts of many. Beagles live for an average of 13 to 15 years.
Known in particular for their melodious howl, this breed is very gentle and friendly with people. Their average life expectancy is 18 years.
Meaning "lake dog from Romagna," the Lagotto Romagnolo comes from the Romagna sub-region of Italy. With a life expectancy of 16 years, this dog requires a lot of activity.
Originating in England and evolving in Australia, the Jack Russell Terrier is a strong and sturdy breed. Their average life expectancy is 16 years.
This adorable mid-size dog originated in Japan. Unusual for larger breeds, the Shiba Inu is expected to live about 16 years.
Smaller than a standard-size Poodle, the Toy Poodle also requires plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulus. Their maximum life expectancy is 20 years, but they usually live to around 16.
Often called "Aussies," these pups are extremely energetic and require daily exercise as well as weekly brushing. Their average life expectancy is 15 years.
A hybrid of a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, Cockapoos are super cute and outgoing. Their average life expectancy is 16 years.
Their name means lion, but these dogs are very sweet and have been cherished by Chinese royalty since the Ming Dynasty. Their average life expectancy is 15 years.
This playful dog loves to wander and run around. Similar in appearance to beagles, they live to be around 13 years old.
Affectionate and sociable, Siberian Huskies are one of the healthiest dog breeds, and live to anywhere between 12 and 14 years.
Corgis are sturdy dogs who are both obedient and easy to train. Their lifespan is from 12 to 15 years.
Known to be one of the healthiest dog breeds around, these desert dogs prefer hotter climates. Independent and strong-willed, they live to around 13 years.
This dread-locked canine is another healthy dog breed. Plus, they are great with kids! Bergamascos live to around 14 years.
An energetic and loving breed, they'll want to be with a family 24/7. Their average life expectancy is between 13 and 15 years.
Although this breed is a bit intimidating, they're not aggressive unless they're trained to be. Canines of this race live about 14 years.
The territorial Canaan is a great breed for a watchdog. They're affectionate with their owners, but dislike strangers. One of the oldest breeds around, they can live up to 15 years.
Affectionate and friendly, the German Shorthaired Pointer are also intelligent and easy to train. An active breed, they live to around 13 years.
These fast and active dogs are friendly and social. They're also intelligent and easy to train. The average life span of these canines is about 13 years.
The Havanese is an affectionate and entertaining pup that need very little exercise to be healthy. They live about 13 years.
Canines of this breed are very intelligent and easy to train. These dogs can reach 14 years old.
While this breed looks like a stuffed toy suitable for infants, they're actually better suited to older people. Their life expectancy is 13 to 15 years.
Also known as Sheltie, this breed is an intelligent problem solver. A great all around dog, they live about 13 years.
Along with being one of the healthiest dog breeds, the Labrador Retriever is also extremely friendly. This intelligent breed has an average life span of 13 years.
Coming from a working background, the Brittany Spaniel is highly intelligent and easy to train. Their playfulness make them great in families with kids and other pets. They live around 12 to 15 years.
This energetic breed is well-known for its intelligence, agility, and stamina. Plus, they're super friendly! Their life expectancy is from 13 to 15 years.
These tiny canines have one of the longest life spans in the dog world, living to be around 17 years old. They're gentle and patient with children and require little exercise because of their size.
Known for being a "barkless" dog, the Basenji is a high-energy pup who originally served as a hunting dog. They live about 12 years.
Sources: (Business Insider) (Southern Living) (Top Dog Tips)
See also: The challenges of traveling with pets
These are the longest-living dog breeds
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LIFESTYLE Pets
One of life's greatest tragedies is that our sweet and loyal four-legged friends don't live as long as we do. While there are no guarantees in life, the dog breeds in this gallery are known for their longevity. Typically, smaller breeds tend to live longer, but there are a few medium-size dogs that are known for their lengthy lifespan. It's important to note, however, that there are certain factors that play into the lifespan of dogs, including size, breed, and lifestyle.
So if you're looking for a fur baby that will stick around for a long time, check out the following slides.