Long-lived dogs: which breeds live the longest?
The average lifespan of dogs is 10-12 years. But there are breeds whose representatives can be called real long-livers. In addition, there are exceptions to the rule, and long-lived dogs in good health set real records. What are the longest living breeds in the world?
Top 10 long-lived breeds
Despite the average lifespan of dogs, there are breeds that live much longer.
- The leading positions are occupied by representatives of the breed Yorkshire Terrier... Their average life expectancy is 17-20 years. This breed has millions of fans around the world. Many people like this cute and miniature dog due to its appearance and friendly character. Separately, it is worth mentioning that the oldest representative of this breed left this world in 2016 at the age of 25. This is a real record even for this breed.
- Another popular breed, representatives of which can rightfully be considered centenarians, is chihuahua... The average lifespan of these dogs is 15 to 20 years. These dogs also belong to one of the smallest breeds in the world and are distinguished by a friendly, loyal and cheerful disposition. In 2014, one of the oldest representatives of this breed died, she was almost 21 years old.
- Cute fluffy pomeranian loved by many dog lovers. Representatives of this breed are considered to be family dogs, since Spitz are very friendly towards children and like to spend a lot of time with younger family members. The average duration of this breed is 13-16 years. Among the representatives of this breed also have their own champions. Thus, one Pomeranian has lived for over 21 years.
- Cute and very beautiful toy poodle also deservedly receive an honorable place in the rating of long-lived breeds. Their average life expectancy is 14-16 years. Toy poodles can be classified as miniature breeds. They are distinguished by their quick-wittedness, intelligence, docile nature and devotion. In addition, they are easy to train, which many people like. The oldest dog of this breed lived in this world for almost 21 years.
- Dachshunds also belong to long-lived breeds. These dogs live on average 14-17 years. And the oldest dachshund in the world died at the age of almost 22. The nature of these pets is different from the rest, since this breed is considered a hunting one. These are brave and courageous dogs that will always protect their owners in a dangerous situation.
- Small and cute dog breeds lhasa apso attract many with their unusual appearance and docile nature. Once this breed was bred specifically for Buddhist monks. On average, representatives of this breed live from 12 to 15 years.
- Maltese considered one of the oldest dog breeds. These cute creatures are distinguished by their cheerful disposition and playfulness. They also live on average from 12 to 15 years.
- Pugs can also be attributed to long-lived dogs, since on average they live 12-15 years. Representatives of this breed are very popular all over the world. The longest living record holder of this breed died in 2017 at the age of almost 19.
- Energetic miniature schnauzer lives on average from 12 to 15 years. They are loyal and obedient dogs that are easy to train.
- Another breed that can rightfully be included in the rating of long-lived breeds is beagle... They get along well with children and are distinguished by a good-natured, loyal and obedient character. On average, these dogs live 13-15 years.
The oldest member of this breed died in 2003 at the age of 27.
- In addition, among centenarians, one can note maltese, which has always been revered by the inhabitants of Greece and Egypt. On average, dogs of this breed live up to 12-14 years. It is interesting to note the fact that once the representatives of this breed were used to catch rats.
- Dog breeds shih-tsu, which have become popular relatively recently, also live up to 12-14 years on average. These pets are distinguished by their docile nature and excessive endurance.
- Also, representatives of breeds such as Sheltie and Labrador. The average duration of these breeds is 10-13 years.
World record holders
Despite the fact that the above breeds are usually classified as long-lived dogs, there are exceptions to the rule. There are dogs of completely different breeds in the world that have lived a long and happy life, thanks to which they entered the list of the "best" - in the Guinness Book of Records.
- A dog named Bluie was born in 1910 and lived for exactly 30 years. It was an Australian shepherd dog, which was bred in the 19th century. The long-lived dog entered the Guinness Book of Records. The owner of the dog assured everyone that it was the correct diet and an active lifestyle that had a positive effect on the health and life expectancy of his pet.
- In 1985, a dog was born in Japan, which was given the nickname Pasuke. It was a simple mongrel who lived for 23 years. At the age of 20, she was hit by a car, but despite serious injuries and damage, she lived for another 3 years.
- A dog named Max from Louisiana lived for almost 30 years and was included in the Guinness Book of Records. The dog was a cross between a simple mongrel and a terrier. The most amazing thing is that Max did not lose his activity until a ripe old age. Even at the age of 29, he willingly frolicked and played actively with the ball in the fresh air.
- Dachshund named Chanel also set a record and entered the Guinness Book. The dog died at the age of 21 in the United States. The owners took her from the shelter at the age of one and a half months. In the spring of 2009, representatives of the Book of Records awarded her the title of "oldest dog" in the world.
In addition, the world knows the names of those dogs that are considered to be unofficial centenarians. The fact is that their names were not included in the Book of Records. For example, this is an Australian shepherd named Maggie. It was owned by an ordinary farmer who had lost the documents proving Maggie's real age. According to the owner, the dog lived in the world for 30 years and was very active until the end of its life.
The veterinarians who examined the dog did not rule out the fact that Maggie was indeed at such a respectable age.
Another record holder who did not make it into the Guinness Book of Records is Bella, who left this land in 2008. According to the owners of the dog, she was over 29 years old. It is worth noting that Bella did not die a natural death. The owners decided to put her to sleep, as she was very sick. Unfortunately, there were no documents confirming her real age.
What affects life expectancy?
Owners of four-legged friends always treat their pets with great care and love. Of course, everyone wants his pet to live in this world as long as possible. What determines the life span of a pet? First of all, from genetics, health status and those conditions in which the dog grows and lives. For good health, each animal needs to choose the right food. A balanced diet is essential for a good dog's health.
When drawing up a daily diet, it is important to take into account the weight of the pet, its activity, age characteristics.
An active lifestyle has a positive effect not only on human health, but also on the health of pets. Therefore, it is very important that the dog moves as much as possible and plays in the fresh air every day.
Also, a timely visit to a veterinarian and receipt of all necessary vaccinations affects life expectancy. Many dog owners in vain neglect this, not thinking that after each walk the dog can pick up an infection, which will negatively affect his health. And, of course, the attention and love of the owner will help the pet to live as long and happy life as possible.
For the lifespan of dogs, see below.