Considering adding a four-legged companion to your home? Not all dog breeds have the same lifespan and health conditions. We’ve compiled a list of canine breeds that live longer and healthier lives, so you can choose the perfect pet for your family and enjoy their company for many years to come.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are the smallest of all breeds and have some of the longest lifespans. These loyal and intelligent dogs require minimal exercise, making them ideal companions for seniors or families with young children. On average, Chihuahuas live for 18 years and have relatively low health costs due to their generally sound health.
Beagle
The Beagle is a sturdy and compact breed that loves spending time with its owners. This loyal companion can live as long as 15 years while enjoying a fairly healthy life. They require moderate exercise, making them suitable for active families, but can be prone to certain health conditions such as ear infections, patellar luxation (dislocating kneecaps), and hypothyroidism.
Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is an independent, energetic canine that makes a great companion in active households. They are highly intelligent and loyal, making them easy to train with patience and consistency. This breed has an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years, making them one of the longest-living types out there. They may suffer from hip dysplasia or eye problems such as cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).
Shiba Inu
The Japanese Shiba Inu is an alert, loyal, and playful pup with a typically fiery personality. This breed generally lives between 12 to 15 years and may suffer from PRA, elbow subluxation, or Von Willebrand’s disease. With their independent demeanor, early socialization and training are important to prevent behavior problems such as barking or aggression later in life.
Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is a famously energetic pup with a long lifespan of 12 to 16 years! Friendly and confident, Jack Russells make great family-friendly companions. As one of the longest-living small breed terriers, they are usually healthy and robust despite being prone to some hereditary diseases like Patellar Luxation, Lens Luxations, and deafness. With regular grooming, exercise, and training these pups can be long-lived pals who bring plenty of love and joy.
While any breed is at risk for dog Cushing’s disease, the Jack Russell Terrier has been identified as having a higher prevalence than other breeds. This makes regular wellness checks and monitoring blood work key in identifying and treating any developing symptoms.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_dog_breeds