It could be a difficult task when looking for a dog that would fit in your family. There are a lot of things to consider like breed, temperament, size, and more. But if you want companionship that would last for a long time some breeds stand out. While the dogs on this list are small or medium in size, they often outlive their bigger counterparts by a long shot.
But before we dive into the world of dogs, please remember that all pets need exercise, a healthy diet, and regular checkups to maximize their life spans. Now that’s out of the way. Let’s begin.
12. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are furballs that come from the Pomerania region between Germany and Poland. They can be recognized by their soft undercoats and short snouts. They are playful and affectionate which makes them popular as a family pet.
Pompoms have longer lives than the average dog because they have more muscle mass which keeps their heart rate slow and helps prevent organ failure in their old age.
This breed only needs a modest space to exercise because of their size which them perfect for small apartments but they can be picky eaters. Provide them with a healthy diet and a little space to roam around and they will live up to 12 years or longer.
Dog stats
Size: Small
Energy level: High
Temperament: Sassy, confident
Average Life span: 12 years or longer
11. Samoyed
The Samoyed breed comes from cold Siberia. They have a fluffy double coat, curly tails, and have medium build. They are friendly and charming towards people and often thrive on human interaction. They also tend to get along with other pets as long as they are raised together.
Samoyeds are another easy-to-keep breed and will survive on fairly small portions of food. Opt for a high-protein dry kibble as this breed is more physically inclined. It will help repair muscles and keep bones strong. Avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity.
They need their daily dose of exercise as they were bred to be sled dogs and are great training buddies. If given a lot of treats or lack exercise they tend to get overweight fast.
Dog stats
Size: Medium
Energy level: Moderate
Temperament: Playful, adventurous
Average life span: 12 to 14
10. Russell Terrier
The Russell Terrier originally from England was bred to assist hounds for fox hunting. They have coarse coats, stubby tails, and floppy ears. They are energetic and eager to please which makes them great companions.
It is advised to feed your Terrier that’s formulated for all life stages. They will also need dental products to keep their teeth healthy.
This breed will need lots of space to roam for exercise. They are also great for hiking or playing fetch to keep those pounds away.
Dog Stats
Size: Small
Energy level: High
Temperament: Outgoing, EnergeticAverage life Span: 12 to 14 years
9. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, commonly known as Yorkies, came from England. They are known for their tiny bodies and fluffy coats. They are usually affectionate and spunky towards people and other pets.
Yorkies as a whole are generally a healthy breed and they don’t battle many health issues. Their slow development rate removes the risk of serious genetic problems and their small size provides them with a faster metabolism that keeps them healthy as they age.
These dogs don’t need a lot of exercise and will only need a small space to move, but they do enjoy going out for a walk. Their coats shed a little but with regular care, it will be minimal. They are prone to cold weather so they need to get a dog coat when needed.
Dog Stats
Size: Small
Energy level: High
Temperament: Loving, spunky
Average life Span: 11 to 15 years
8. Maltese
The Maltese is one of the most majestic breeds. Originally from Malta, these dogs are admired for their glamorous, long coats. They are gentle and intelligent which makes them great at doing tricks to please their owners.
Maltese have minimal health issues but require regular grooming. They will live well into their mid-teens as long as they are fed a high-quality diet that helps maintain their robust health and their coats beautiful. Avoid overfeeding them as they are prone to obesity.
This breed will always appreciate playtime and moderate amounts of walk. This will keep their joints healthy and keep their stamina at peak level.
Dog stats
Size: Small
Energy level: High
Temperament: Loving, Intelligent
Average life Span: 12 to 15 years
7. Bichon Frise
Recognizable by their curly and fluffy coats, the Bichon Frise is a breed that originated in France. They are playful but gentle which makes them compatible with almost every family.
Bichons are active dogs and they love to play. They can get their exercise by doing tricks and taking short walks but they don’t need a lot of space which is good for families with modest apartments.
Feed your Bichons with a high-quality dog food that has low salt content as they tend to have bladder stones but if they do get stones ask your vet to prescribe a diet to prevent it from returning.
Dog stats
Size: Small
Energy level: High
Temperament: Playful, gentle
Average life span: 14 to 15 years
6. Dachshund
The Sausage-shaped Dachshunds are affectionately called “wiener dogs” because of their shape. They were bred in Germany as badger hunters and are known to be tenacious and energetic. These elongated pups have droopy ears and raised tails to help keep them visible to their owners.
When feeding your Doxie always opt for a low-fat, age-appropriate diet and avoid giving them table scraps and animal bones as they can cause diarrhea or vomiting.
Although they are small Doxies need regular exercise to stay fit and build strong muscles which help them support their backs.
Dog stats
Size: Small
Energy level: High
Temperament: Adventurous, playful
Average life span: 12 to 16 years
5. Mini Pinscher
The Mini Pinscher is a breed from Germany and it’s no secret that they love toys. They look like mini Dobermans because of their small size and sleek coats. Dubbed as “king of toys”, owners find them entertaining during playtime while they interact with their toys.
Mini Pins tend to be obese so should avoid overfeeding them. Also, choose a low-calorie dog food to help maintain their health.
Mini Pinschers need moderate amounts of exercise daily because they have a lot of energy. These activities can include play sessions, walks, and interactive games.
Dog stats
Size: Small
Energy level: High
Temperament: Playful, energetic
Average life span: 12 to 16 years
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4. Shih Tzu
History reveals that the Shih Tzu breed was the pet of choice for royalty in ancient China. They are characterized by their squished faces, wavy coats, and small size. They are relatively easy to live with as they are affectionate and have happy tempers.
Because of their ancient lineage, they’ve had enough time to develop their immune systems and get rid of some genetic problems.
These dogs only need small portions but like any other dog, they need a balanced diet. When choosing the kind of dog food opt for the dry kibble as this will also help maintain their teeth’s health.
The Shih Tzu only needs a moderate amount of exercise and a 15-minute walk plus playtime sessions will help maintain their weight.
Dog stats
Size: Small
Energy level: Moderate
Temperament: Affectionate, calm
Average life span: 10 to 16 (maybe 18) years
3. Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu is an ancient Japanese dog breed that’s become viral over the internet because of the “doge meme”. They are known to have calm and watchful demeanors and were bred as guard dogs. They are characterized by curled tails, pointed ears, and thick double coats.
Having a long bloodline helps the Shiba Inu get rid of their genetic problems. They have evolved to have great immune systems and resistance to certain diseases. Feeding them a diet that’s good for joint support and fatty acids for healthy skin will do wonders for this breed.
Shiba Inu needs lots of mental stimulation and moderate amounts of exercise. These can be through training sessions, walks, and play can help tire them out so they stay calm.
Dog stats
Size: Medium
Energy level: Medium
Temperament: Calm, attentive
Average life span: 13 to 16 years
2. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas originated in Mexico and are known to be the world’s smallest breed. They have big eyes, pointed ears, and tiny bodies. They are energetic and loyal dogs but can be aggressive toward people who are not their main caregivers.
Chis as they are often called, only need small portions of food. As long as they are on a balanced diet they will be in top condition. Also, consider giving them dry kibble to help maintain their teeth’s health.
Going for short 10-minute walks plus a few minutes of playtime will help keep the pounds away from your Chihuahua. This needs to be done regularly as these dogs can get obese over time.
Dog stats
Size: Small
Energy level: High
Temperament: Loyal, energetic
Average life span: 14 to 16 years
RELATED: Top 10 Dog Breeds With The Shortest Life Spans
1. Toy Poodle
Originally from France, the Toy Poodle is the smallest of the Poodle line and can live up to 18 years old or even longer. They have thick coats and webbed feet which makes them excellent swimmers. They are highly intelligent and energetic which makes training them easy. Their coats are also considered hypoallergenic and is excellent for people with dog allergies.
The Toy Poodles should be kept on a balanced diet to keep them healthy. Choose a dog food that’s great for small breeds when trying to feed them. Also, they will need proper dental care like toothbrushing alongside their regular coat grooming.
Toy Poodles have a lower need for exercise than other breeds. A short 10-minute walk plus play time will benefit them.
Dog stats
Size: Small
Energy level: High
Temperament: Intelligent, Eager to please
Average life span: 10 to 18 years
From The Club
There is no exact way of predicting how long our canine buddies will live and there are a lot of factors to consider when trying to gauge their life spans. By giving them lots of care and attention we can extend their lives. As we all know a healthy dog is a happy dog!
