Longest-living breeds: Terriers

Among the 25 breeds in the “Terriers” 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 — Jack Russell Terrierabout 14.5 years on average (13–16 years)Small but tireless, the Jack Russell is a lively, clever and daring terrier that needs plenty of activity.
No. 2 — Yorkshire Terrierabout 14.5 years on average (13–16 years)A small dog with a silky coat and a terrier's spirit, the Yorkie is lively, cuddly and deeply attached to its owners. It sheds very little.
No. 3 — American Staffordshire Terrierabout 14 years on average (12–16 years)Muscular, brave and very affectionate with its family, the American Staffordshire Terrier needs a responsible owner and serious training.
No. 4 — Manchester Terrierabout 14 years on average (12–16 years)An elegant, smooth-coated black-and-tan terrier, the Manchester is lively, clever and affectionate, and easy to groom.
No. 5 — West Highland White Terrierabout 14 years on average (12–16 years)A small, all-white Scottish terrier, the Westie is cheerful, self-confident and very endearing. It adapts well to city life.
No. 6 — Parson Russell Terrierabout 14 years on average (13–15 years)Longer-legged than the Jack Russell, the Parson Russell is a sporty, cheerful, tireless terrier made for active owners.
No. 7 — Australian Silky Terrierabout 13.5 years on average (12–15 years)Close to the Yorkie but slightly larger, the Silky Terrier is a small, silky-coated terrier that is lively, playful and affectionate.
No. 8 — Australian Terrierabout 13.5 years on average (12–15 years)A sturdy little terrier with a generous ruff, the Australian Terrier is lively, loyal and well suited to warm climates.
No. 9 — Bedlington Terrierabout 13.5 years on average (12–15 years)With its lamb-like look, the Bedlington Terrier hides a fast hunter. Gentle and affectionate at home, it sheds very little.
No. 10 — Border Terrierabout 13.5 years on average (12–15 years)A hardy little terrier with an otter-like head, the Border Terrier is affectionate, sociable and easier to live with than many terriers.