When we adopt dogs, we wish they’d live as long as we do. Obviously, they don’t, though, leaving us hoping for as long and as healthy a life as possible for them. Generally, larger breeds are with our families for a shorter time and smaller breeds may live closer to the lifespan of house cats. The average dog, though, lives between 10 and 13 years. Here are 10 dog breeds that outpace that and are likely to be part of your family for many, many years.

Chihuahua

The chihuahua drives home the point of smaller dogs living longer, as they are the smallest dog breed and one of the longest living. These spunky, loyal, and vocal pint-sized furry friends live for between 14 and 16 years on average but have been known to reach their 20s. The current “oldest dog in the world” is often a chihuahua. They’re also old souls, with their ancestors believed to have lived with the Toltecs in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica.

Though they’re a fairly healthy breed, chihuahuas still face some issues common to them, including heart disease, patellar luxation, and dental issues. They also struggle in the cold.

Shih Tzu

Another diminutive old-timer is the shih tzu. Dating back more than 1,000 years and with a history of companionship with Chinese royalty, this breed generally lives between 10 and 18 years. Their happy-go-lucky attitude may help, as these dogs are gentle, companionable, go with the flow, and generally peppy. 

There are some health conditions to watch out for with shih tzus, though, including the respiratory and eye issues found in other brachycephalic breeds, dental and ear issues, and patellar luxation.

Bichon Frise

Another sunny side up pooch with a long lifespan is the Bichon Frise. This breed is everyone’s best friend, and all the companionship may help it reach its average lifespan of 14 to 15 years. These dogs also have centuries of experience to draw upon, as they were once kept by French royalty, with Henry III known to be a particularly big fan. Their playful side may also come from their history as circus performers. 

These long-lived pups do still face some health troubles, though, often experiencing cataracts, dental issues, bladder stones, diabetes, and liver conditions.

Dachshund

Their bodies are long, and so are their lifespans. The dachshund, often lovingly referred to as a wiener dog, lives an average of 12 to 16 years. They may flirt with 20, though. As they were bred to hunt, they’re still a smart, active, and loyal dog. They’re also known to be a bit stubborn and mischievous, which may add some flavor to their long lives, as does the affection they have for their people.

Their long backs can often face injuries as they age, particularly if they’re carrying extra weight. They are also prone to patellar luxation, dental issues, and epilepsy. 

Australian Cattle Dog

Not all longer lived dogs are small. Some are a bit bigger and still maintain longevity. Among them is the Australian cattle dog, bred back in the 19th century to work on ranches in Australia. They can keep their ranch homes running in tip top shape for between 12 and 16 years, but the oldest Australian cattle dog ever recorded was a pup named Bluey who lived 29 years.

Should this breed flirt with such a long lifespan, they may experience issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and dental issues. They’re also prone to deafness.

Australian Shepherd

There’s not a dog fountain of youth in Australia, and the next dog on our list isn’t even from there. The Australian shepherd was likely named for Basque ranch hands who had lived in Australia before setting in the United States and breeding this ranch/rodeo dog. Over their 12-to-15-year lifespan, Aussies just want something to do. Maybe that active mind and body keeps them ticking longer, much like it can for humans. One of their favorite jobs is as protector, too.

Aussies have similar health issues to Australian cattle dogs, including hip and elbow dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. Epilepsy and cataracts often develop in this breed, too.

Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is an ancient breed that still wins the hearts of people across the globe, particularly in Japan. Originally bred to hunt and still as energized as any hunting dog, the Shiba Inu lives an average of 13 to 16 years. While much of this time will be spent making friends and being affectionate with their favorite friends, a lot of it will also be spent living life their way. The breed is known to be quite independent.

Though these dogs are mostly healthy, the breed is particularly prone to developing allergies. Eye and dental issues, hip and elbow dysplasia, and patellar luxation are also common ailments.

Alaskan Malamute

Speaking of independent and ancient, the Alaskan malamute has a shorter lifespan than most of the dogs on this list but a longer lifespan than most dogs its size. These large pups, that descend from sled dogs dating back thousands of years, have minds of their own but are still very protective of and affectionate with their people. They’re especially fond of their human siblings, whose lives they’re expected to grace for up to 14 years. Their playful nature and energy may be the secret behind their relative longevity. 

As the years go by, though, polyneuropathy and hypothyroidism are common for malamutes, as are hip and elbow dysplasia and eye issues.

Lagotto Romagnolo

Senior humans often work to extend their lifespans by becoming swimmers, and the Lagotto Romagnolo may have a similar idea. These Italian dogs, known today for their truffle hunting skills, descend from ancient water dogs. As such, they’ll love spending a good portion of their 15-to-17-year lifespan going for a swim. Their playful, energetic natures may keep them out for a while, too.

The breed is prone to a neurodegenerative condition called Lagotto Storage Disease, however, as well as balance problems, hypothyroidism, cataracts, and hip and elbow dysplasia.

Belgian Malinois

The last of our not-so-small long-lived breeds is the Belgian Malinois. These dogs have a history of being loyal herding dogs who made themselves useful in a variety of ways on the farm. As is the case with many older humans who defy age expectations, they also love to learn and are very inquisitive. Their smart natures may help them figure out whatever they’re considering, as well. Owners of this breed can expect 14 to 16 years of protection from this avid guard dog.

Common health conditions, though, include epilepsy, hypothyroidism, hip and elbow dysplasia, and eye issues.