How Long Do Large Breed Dogs Live?
December 17, 2025
Highlights: A big dog takes up extra room on your couch and in your heart, but their size doesn’t equate to a longer lifespan. Large dogs have a significantly shorter
Published by Joseph Roetheli, PhD
Highlights:
Smaller-breed dogs might be smaller in stature, but they live large when it comes to lifespan. Small-breed dogs routinely outlive their medium and large-breed counterparts. But what makes a dog a “small breed,” and which of these pint-sized pups will live the longest?
If you’re looking for a small dog with a big life ahead of it, we’ve got you covered. We’ll explain what a small breed is, which small dogs live the longest, and how you can help support your small dog throughout their lives.
If you’re the owner of a 20-pound miniature dachshund, you might wonder if you own a true small-breed dog. According to experts, a small breed is a breed that weighs 20 pounds or less when fully grown. In this case, your wily wiener-dog would just meet the qualification. However, it’s not solely about weight.
Small dogs also share certain characteristics, like:
Small dogs even have subcategories, like toy breeds. Toy breeds weigh less than 10 pounds when fully grown.
Not all small dogs have the same lifespan. Genetics, disposition, and general care play a role in how long your dog will live. A breed may outlive its predicted lifespan. Likewise, a breed may not reach its intended lifespan if they have an underlying illness.
The following breeds, however, consistently top the longevity charts.
Despite their tiny size, chihuahuas are known for being hearty, long-living dogs. They are generally accepted as the longest living dog breed. A healthy chihuahua may live to be between 14 and 17 years old, but many chihuahuas live to be 20 or more.
Chihuahuas, like other small dogs, are prone to dental disease, which can become problematic for their overall wellness. Additionally, this breed can develop issues with its kneecaps.
Highly intelligent and easy to train, the toy poodle has a life expectancy of between 14 and 18 years. This is an exceptionally active breed, especially for a toy breed.
Toy poodles weigh between four and six pounds, making them one of the world’s smallest breeds. They, like chihuahuas, can develop dental disease, but they are also a breed that is known for developing eye-related issues.
Yorkies are high-energy and have big personalities. They are an excellent choice for families or individuals.
These dogs can live between 13 and 16 years and are a breed that is known for good genetics. That said, watch out for health-related conditions in the senior years, like tracheal collapse and dental disease.
The world’s favorite long dog also has a long life expectancy. Dachshunds live between 12 and 16 years with proper care. Dachshunds tend to develop back problems, especially if they cannot maintain a healthy weight. These loyal dogs remain active long into their adult years, making them a great fit for families.
The papillon’s ears are akin to the dachshund’s body; unique in every sense of the term. Papillons have large ears that resemble butterfly wings (hence their name, which translates to butterfly).
Papillons are active, loving, and learn quickly. Their average lifespan is between 14 and 17 years. Although these breeds make living long look easy, longevity isn’t solely about breed or genetics.
You can’t change your dog’s genetic code, but you can take steps to ensure they have the best possible chance of living a healthy, long life.
Here are five ways to support your dog’s longevity.
The quality of your dog’s kibble matters. When you feed your dog, look for food that meets their daily nutritional needs. If your dog needs a weight-loss food, their veterinarian can offer one that ensures they’re still getting the nutrients they need.
Your dog needs exercise just like you. Daily walks, playtime, or trips to the dog park are essential for keeping their joints strong and their bodies lean and healthy. Most small breeds need between 30 and 60 minutes of exercise each day.
Small dogs often develop dental disease, and their owners may not know it. Left untreated, dental disease can lead to pain and tooth loss. Not to mention, it can spread to your dog’s body and result in systemic illness.
Your dog’s yearly veterinarian visits help with more than just yearly vaccinations. Vet checkups help ensure your dog is within a healthy weight range and provide early detection of illnesses. Although veterinary care can be expensive, many offices offer payment plans or pet insurance policies to help offset the cost.
Your dog’s cells are the foundation of their health. Why not give them a daily supplement that provides cellular support? Longevity15 is a C15:0 supplement.
C15:0 is an odd-chain, saturated fatty acid that helps your dog by supporting their cells, enhancing cardiovascular function, supporting healthy glucose handling, encouraging healthy liver function, and promoting strong, healthy red blood cells. Giving your dog Longevity15 each day is one of the smartest decisions you can make as a pet owner.
Small-breed dogs tend to have the longest lifespan, averaging 10 to 15 years. As small dogs age, they are more prone to liver, kidney, and adrenal disease, as well as degenerative heart disease and pancreatitis.
Small dogs are also very prone to dental disease, which can complicate these other illnesses. Dental disease can lead to illness throughout a dog’s body, not just their mouth.
Approximately 8% of dogs live to be 15 years old. While the average lifespan for dogs is typically 10 to 13 years, smaller breeds tend to live longer, with some reaching 15 years or more.
However, any dog may outlive these averages or fail to reach these expected ages. A dog’s own genetics play a role.
Yes, indoor dogs generally live longer than outdoor dogs. Living indoors offers protection from harsh weather, predators, and exposure to toxins, contributing to a longer lifespan.
Additionally, indoor dogs often receive more consistent veterinary care, companionship, and mental stimulation, further enhancing their health and longevity, according to FACE Foundation.
Small dogs are tiny but mighty, with hearty bodies that are built to live longer than their larger counterparts. Be on the lookout for dental disease and make sure your pet is getting their routine check-ups to help ensure they are thriving.
Add Longevity15 to their daily diet to support their ability to reach their life expectancy as healthfully and playfully as possible.
Sources:
21 Longest-Living Dog Breeds | PetMD
How Much Exercise Does a Dog Need Every Day?|American Kennel Club
Relation between periodontal disease and systemic diseases in dogs – ScienceDirect
Why It’s Safer to Keep Pets Indoors (With Supervised Outdoor Time) | FACE Foundation
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