Longest-living breeds: Companion and toy dogs

Among the 23 breeds in the “Companion and toy dogs” group, this ranking lists the ten with the highest average life expectancy (the midpoint of the typical range). Ties are broken by the upper limit of the range, then alphabetical order. A dog’s lifespan also depends on care, diet and genetics.

No. 1 — Coton de Tulearabout 14.5 years on average (13–16 years)A small white dog with a coat as soft as cotton, the Coton de Tulear is cheerful, sociable and very attached to its family.
No. 2 — Papillonabout 14.5 years on average (13–16 years)Recognisable by its large, fringed ears shaped like butterfly wings, this little dog is lively, clever and surprisingly athletic.
No. 3 — Chihuahuaabout 14 years on average (12–16 years)The world's smallest dog has a big personality: lively, loyal and brave, the Chihuahua is an ideal companion for city life.
No. 4 — Chinese Crested Dogabout 14 years on average (13–15 years)An elegant little dog, hairless or long-coated (Powder Puff), the Chinese Crested is affectionate, cheerful and devoted to its owners.
No. 5 — Havaneseabout 14 years on average (13–15 years)A small Cuban dog with a silky coat, the Havanese is cheerful, sociable and easy-going, ideal for families in the city.
No. 6 — Bichon Friseabout 13.5 years on average (12–15 years)An always-cheerful ball of white fluff, the Bichon Frise is a gentle, sociable, easy-going companion that sheds very little.
No. 7 — Brussels Griffonabout 13.5 years on average (12–15 years)A small Belgian dog with a wiry red coat and an almost human expression, the Brussels Griffon is lively, curious and devoted to its owner.
No. 8 — Lhasa Apsoabout 13.5 years on average (12–15 years)A small, long-coated guardian of Tibetan monasteries, the Lhasa Apso is proud, watchful and very attached to its family.
No. 9 — Löwchenabout 13.5 years on average (12–15 years)Famous for its traditional 'little lion' clip, this European bichon is cheerful, lively and very affectionate.
No. 10 — Malteseabout 13.5 years on average (12–15 years)A small dog with a long, silky white coat, the Maltese is gentle, playful and devoted to its owners. It sheds very little.