How Long Do Dogs Live? (Breed Lifespan Chart 2026)

Every dog owner eventually asks the same question: how long will my dog live? The truth is, it depends on breed, size, lifestyle, and diet but knowing the averages helps you plan their care and catch problems early.

Before we dive in, try our Dog Age Calculator to see your dog’s real age in human years.

A small Chihuahua rests peacefully on a soft grey sofa, gazing with gentle eyes and exuding a serene presence in a cozy home setting.

Average Dog Lifespan by Size

Size Category	Average Lifespan	Example Breeds
Toy & Small	14 – 18 years	Chihuahua, Dachshund, Yorkshire Terrier
Medium	12 – 15 years	Beagle, Border Collie, Cocker Spaniel
Large	10 – 13 years	Labrador, Golden Retriever, Boxer
Giant	7 – 10 years	Great Dane, Mastiff, Saint Bernard

Smaller dogs usually outlive larger ones because their hearts and organs work less strenuously over time.

A fluffy, cream-colored dog with a curly coat and bright eyes looks up attentively while standing on a wooden floor.

Top 20 Breeds with the Longest Lifespans

Rank	Breed	Average Years
1	Chihuahua	18
2	Toy Poodle	17
3	Jack Russell Terrier	16
4	Dachshund	16
5	Shih Tzu	16
6	Beagle	15
7	Border Collie	15
8	Miniature Schnauzer	15
9	Papillon	15
10	Pomeranian	15
11	Lhasa Apso	15
12	Australian Shepherd	14
13	Whippet	14
14	Bichon Frise	14
15	Cocker Spaniel	14
16	Pug	13
17	Labrador Retriever	12
18	German Shepherd	11
19	Rottweiler	10
20	Great Dane	8

Diet & Exercise: The Two Biggest Lifespan Factors

Dogs that eat quality food and stay lean live up to 2 years longer than overweight ones. Check out our Human Foods Dogs Can Eat (and Can’t) list to see which snacks help rather than harm.

Daily walks and mental play also reduce stress hormones and keep the immune system strong.

A joyful Golden Retriever prances along the beach, tongue out and ears flapping in the breeze, epitomizing the carefree spirit of a day by the ocean.

Health Care That Adds Years

• Annual vet check-ups

• Teeth cleaning (to prevent organ infection)

• Flea and worm prevention

• Joint supplements after age 7

Keeping a simple weight tracker or journal can help you spot early changes, soon we’ll launch a Pet Weight Calculator here on Name Kennel 🐾

Signs Your Dog Is Getting Older

Age Range	Human Equivalent	Common Changes
7 – 9 yrs	50 – 60 yrs	Graying fur, slower movement
10 – 12 yrs	60 – 70 yrs	Shorter walks, more sleep
13 + yrs	70 + yrs	Hearing loss, softer food needed

If you’re curious about exact conversion, open the Dog Age Calculator, it’s scientifically accurate and fun.

Dog Lifespan Chart by Breed Group (2026 Data)

Breed Group	Average Years	Fun Fact
Terriers	15	Boundless energy and resilience
Hounds	13	Fast metabolism, lean bodies
Working Dogs	11	High wear on joints
Toy Breeds	16	Tiny hearts, slow aging
Retrievers	12	Gentle temperament, prone to hip issues
Giant Breeds	8	Age faster due to size and growth rate

A happy Golden Retriever enjoys a sunny day, lounging in a field filled with blooming daisies.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions

What dog has the shortest lifespan?

Usually giant breeds like Great Danes and Mastiffs — 7 to 10 years on average.

Which dogs live the longest?

Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles can reach 17 – 18 years with proper care.

Can diet really extend a dog’s life?

Yes. Feeding balanced meals and avoiding human junk foods adds years of healthy life.

Does neutering affect lifespan?

Studies show neutered dogs live slightly longer due to lower risk of certain cancers.

🔗 Related Tools & Guides

• 🧮 Dog Age Calculator

• 🍗 Human Foods Dogs Can Eat (and Can’t)

• 🐾 Dog Name Generator

Your dog’s lifespan isn’t just genetics, it’s shaped by the love, food, and care you provide every day. Bookmark this Dog Lifespan Chart 2026 so you can track your pet’s age, and share it with friends who want their dogs to live long, joyful lives.