Longest-living breeds: Retrievers, flushing dogs and water dogs

Among the 16 breeds in the “Retrievers, flushing dogs and water 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 — Lagotto Romagnoloabout 14 years on average (12–16 years)A curly-coated Italian truffle dog, the Lagotto is affectionate, curious and blessed with an exceptional nose. It sheds very little.
No. 2 — American Cocker Spanielabout 13.5 years on average (12–15 years)Smaller than the English Cocker and with a profuse coat, the American Cocker Spaniel is gentle, merry and very attached to its family.
No. 3 — Welsh Springer Spanielabout 13.5 years on average (12–15 years)A red-and-white spaniel from Wales, the Welsh Springer is affectionate, loyal and hardy, a little more reserved than its English cousin.
No. 4 — Barbetabout 13 years on average (12–14 years)An ancient French water dog with a woolly coat and bushy beard, the Barbet is cheerful, sociable and sheds very little.
No. 5 — English Cocker Spanielabout 13 years on average (12–14 years)Cheerful, affectionate and forever wagging, the English Cocker Spaniel is an endearing family dog and an enthusiastic hunter.
No. 6 — English Springer Spanielabout 13 years on average (12–14 years)Tireless, cheerful and very affectionate, the English Springer is an enthusiastic flushing dog and an excellent dog for active families.
No. 7 — Nederlandse Kooikerhondjeabout 13 years on average (12–14 years)A small red-and-white Dutch spaniel with black-tipped ears, the Kooikerhondje is lively, sensitive and very attached to its family.
No. 8 — Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrieverabout 13 years on average (12–14 years)The smallest retriever, the red 'Toller' is lively, clever and full of energy, with a unique hunting technique.
No. 9 — Spanish Water Dogabout 13 years on average (12–14 years)A versatile dog with a woolly, curly coat, the Spanish Water Dog is hard-working, loyal and well suited to hot climates.
No. 10 — Portuguese Water Dogabout 12 years on average (11–13 years)A tireless swimmer with a curly or wavy coat, the Portuguese Water Dog is intelligent, playful and sheds very little.