On average, the life expectancy of dogs is 10-12 years. But there are such breeds whose representatives can be called real long-livers. In addition, there are exceptions to the rules, and long-lived dogs with good health set a real record. What are the longest breeds in the world?
Top 10 breeds of long-lived
Despite the average life expectancy of dogs, there are breeds that live much longer.
- Leading positions are representatives of the breed. Yorkshire Terrier. Their average lifespan is 17–20 years. This breed has millions of fans around the world. Many people like a cute and miniature dog because of their 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 such a breed.
- Another popular breed, representatives of which can rightly be considered long-livers - is Chihuahua. The average lifespan of these dogs is 15 to 20 years. Such dogs also belong to one of the smallest breeds in the world and are distinguished by a friendly, dedicated and cheerful disposition. In 2014, one of the oldest representatives of this breed died, she was almost 21 years old.
- Cute fluffy Pomeranian Spitz like many dog lovers. Representatives of this breed are considered to be family dogs, as the spitz dogs are very friendly towards children and like to spend a lot of time with younger family members. The average duration of dogs of this breed is 13-16 years. Among the representatives of this breed also has its champions. So, one Pomeranian spitz lived over 21 years.
- Cute and very beautiful toy poodles also deservedly receive an honorable place in the ranking of long-lived breeds. The average duration of their life is 14-16 years. Toy poodles can be attributed to miniature breeds. They are distinguished by their acumen, intelligence, docile temperament and devotion. In addition, it is easy to train, which is pleasant to many. The oldest dog of this breed has 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 years. The nature of these pets is different from the rest, since this breed is considered a hunting one. These are courageous and courageous dogs, which in a dangerous situation will always protect their owners.
- Small and cute breed dogs Lhasa Apso attract many with their unusual appearance and appeasable character. 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 notable for 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. Record holder of this breed died in 2017 at the age of almost 19 years.
- Energetic miniature schnauzer lives on average between 12 and 15 years. These are dedicated and obedient dogs that are easy to train.
- Another breed that can rightly be included in the rating of long-lived breeds is the beagle. They get along well with children and are distinguished by a good-natured, dedicated and obedient character.On average, these dogs live 13-15 years.
The oldest representative of this breed died in 2003 at the age of 27 years.
- In addition, among the long-livers can be noted Maltesewhich has always been honored by the people of Greece and Egypt. On average, dogs of this breed live to 12-14 years. It is interesting to note the fact that once representatives of this breed were used to catch rats.
- Breed dogs shih tsu, which became popular relatively recently, also live on average to 12-14 years. These pets differ appeasable character and excessive endurance.
- Also long-livers can include representatives of such breeds as sheltie and labrador. The average duration of dogs of these breeds is 10-13 years.
World record holders
Despite the fact that the above breed is usually attributed to the category of long-lived dogs, there are exceptions to the rules. In the world there are dogs of completely different breeds that have lived a long and happy life, thanks to which they entered the list of the “best-most” - the Guinness Book of Records.
- The dog named Blui was born in 1910 and lived exactly 30 years. It was a dog breed Australian shepherd, which was bred in the XIX century. A long-lived dog entered the Guinness Book of Records. The owner of the dog assured everyone that it was the right diet and active lifestyle that had a positive effect on the health and longevity of his pet.
- In 1985, a dog was born in Japan, which was given the nickname Pasuku. 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 injuries, she lived for another 3 years.
- A dog named Max from Louisiana lived for almost 30 years and was entered into the Guinness Book of Records. The dog was a cross between a simple mongrel and a terrier. The most amazing thing is that until old age Max has not lost his activity. Even at 29, he eagerly frolicked and actively played with the ball in the open air.
- Dachshund nicknamed Chanel also set a record and entered the Guinness Book. The dog died at the age of 21 in the USA. The owners took her from a shelter at the age of a month and a half. In the spring of 2009, representatives of the Book of Records awarded her the title of "the oldest dog" in the world.
In addition, the world famous names of those dogs, which are considered to be unofficial long-livers. The fact is that their names were not entered in the Book of Records. For example, it is Australian shepherd named Maggie. It was owned by an ordinary farmer who lost documents confirming the real age of Maggie. According to the owner, the dog lived in the world for 30 years and until the end of its life was very active.
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 by her own death. The hosts decided to put her to sleep, as she was very sick. Unfortunately, there were no documents confirming her real age.
What affects life expectancy?
The 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 does a pet's lifespan depend on? First of all, from genetics, health and the conditions in which the dog grows and lives. For good health, each animal needs to choose the right food. A balanced diet is a major factor in good dog health.
In drawing up the daily diet is important to take into account the weight of the pet, its activity, especially the age.
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 every day and plays in the open air.
Also, life expectancy is affected by timely visits to the veterinarian and receiving all the necessary vaccinations. Many dog owners neglect this for nothing, without thinking that after each walk the dog can pick up an infection that 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.
On the longevity of dogs, see below.