Bringing a dog home means signing up for years of companionship. They become part of your morning routine, your weekend plans, your daily walks, and all those little moments in between. For many dog owners, having as much time together as possible is a big part of choosing a breed.
No dog comes with a guaranteed lifespan, but some breeds are known for living well into their teens. Smaller dogs tend to have longer lifespans than larger breeds, although genetics, diet, exercise, dental care, and regular veterinary visits all play a part.
If you’re looking for a dog that could be part of your family for many years, these 12 breeds are known for their long lives and strong bonds with their people.
Coton de Tulear
Average lifespan: 15–19 years
The Coton de Tulear is a small companion dog with a soft coat and a happy personality. These dogs like being close to their families and often want to be involved in whatever is happening around the house.
Cotons tend to form close relationships with their owners and can be quite content simply staying nearby. With a potential lifespan reaching the late teens, they can become a familiar and loving part of family life for a very long time.
Chinese Crested
Average lifespan: 13–18 years
The Chinese Crested has an appearance that’s hard to miss, but its affectionate personality is what many owners love most. These dogs tend to be very attached to their people and enjoy plenty of attention.
They can be playful when the mood strikes and perfectly happy to curl up beside their owners when things are quiet. Both the hairless and powderpuff varieties can make devoted companions.
Related: Keep The Pet, Not The Odor: 20 Ways To Reduce Pet Smells In Your House
Rat Terrier
Average lifespan: 12–18 years
Rat Terriers are energetic, curious, and full of personality. They like having something to do and usually enjoy being involved with their families throughout the day.
Their intelligence makes training a rewarding part of owning one, while their affectionate side helps them form close relationships with their people. With regular exercise and plenty of interaction, a Rat Terrier can remain an active family companion for many years.
Shih Tzu
Average lifespan: 10–18 years
Shih Tzus were bred as companion dogs, so spending time with people comes naturally to them. They tend to be affectionate and enjoy being near their owners, whether that’s sitting on the couch or following someone from room to room.
Their gentle personality makes them a popular choice for people who want a small dog that enjoys close companionship. Some Shih Tzus live well into their teens, giving their families many years together.
Chihuahua
Average lifespan: 14–16 years
Chihuahuas are tiny dogs with plenty of personality. They often become especially attached to their owners and can be surprisingly protective of the people they love.
They’re alert, expressive, and usually happiest when they can stay close to their favorite person. Their small size also makes them easy to include in many everyday activities, which can help strengthen that close connection.
Havanese
Average lifespan: 14–16 years
The Havanese is a friendly little dog that tends to thrive around people. They’re social, affectionate, and often happy to greet just about everyone they meet.
Havanese dogs usually enjoy being part of family activities and can get along well with other pets. Their playful personalities and long average lifespan make them a popular choice for people looking for a companion they can share many years with.
Papillon
Average lifespan: 14–16 years
Don’t let the Papillon’s delicate appearance fool you. These small dogs are lively, smart, and ready to participate in whatever their owners are doing.
They enjoy learning tricks, playing games, and spending time with their families. Their intelligence gives them plenty to do, while their affectionate nature helps them form close relationships with the people around them.
Dachshund
Average lifespan: 12–16 years
Dachshunds are famous for their long bodies, short legs, and big personalities. They’re curious, determined, playful, and sometimes stubborn enough to make their owners laugh.
These dogs often become deeply attached to their families and like having a place in the daily routine. They can enjoy a good walk or play session but are just as happy settling down beside their favorite person afterward.
Related: 12 Independent Dog Breeds That Don’t Need Constant Attention
Pomeranian
Average lifespan: 12–16 years
Pomeranians may be small, but they rarely act like it. They’re confident, lively, and usually have plenty to say about what’s happening around them.
Under all that fluffy fur is an affectionate companion that enjoys attention and staying close to its family. Their small size makes them well suited to many homes, while their long lifespan can mean more than a decade of companionship.
Bichon Frise
Average lifespan: 14–15 years
Bichon Frises are cheerful, affectionate dogs that tend to enjoy having people around. They often have playful personalities and can quickly become a familiar presence in the household.
They do best with regular interaction and plenty of companionship. Their friendly nature and relatively long lifespan make them a favorite among people looking for a small dog that will be part of family life for years.
Related: 14 Beginner-Friendly Dog Breeds Known for Their Friendly Personalities
Yorkshire Terrier
Average lifespan: 11–15 years
Yorkshire Terriers are small dogs with plenty of energy and attitude. They’re curious, affectionate, and often form strong attachments to their owners.
Yorkies tend to enjoy being involved in everyday activities and can remain playful well into their later years. Their size makes them easy to keep in smaller homes, while their personality gives them a much bigger presence than their stature suggests.
Toy Poodle
Average lifespan: 10–18 years
Toy Poodles are bright, affectionate dogs that often become very attached to their families. They enjoy learning, playing, and having something to keep their minds busy.
Their intelligence makes training easier for many owners, while their people-focused personality keeps them close to the family. With good care, some Toy Poodles can live well into their teens, giving their owners many years of companionship.
More Years With a Beloved Companion
A long lifespan is one reason people are drawn to these breeds, but it’s only part of the picture. Every dog is different, and genetics can have a major effect on how long an individual dog lives.
Good food, regular exercise, routine veterinary care, dental care, and keeping an eye on changes in behavior can all help support a dog’s health throughout its life.
For families choosing a new dog, a breed known for longevity can mean more birthdays, more walks, more lazy afternoons on the couch, and plenty of everyday memories along the way.
