Free Guide
How Long Do Dogs Live?
Average lifespan by breed and size, plus tips to help your dog live longer.
On average, dogs live 10–13 years. Size is the single biggest factor: small breeds often live 10–15 years (some reaching 18), while large breeds typically live 8–12 years and giant breeds closer to 8–10.
Average Lifespan by Size
| Size | Average Lifespan | Common Breeds (years) |
|---|---|---|
| Small (< 20 lb) | 10–15 years (up to 18 in some cases) | Chihuahua 15–17, Toy Poodle 12–15, Dachshund 12–16, Pomeranian 14–16 |
| Medium (20–50 lb) | 10–13 years | Border Collie 12–15, Beagle 12–15, Corgi 12–15, Shiba Inu 12–15 |
| Large (> 50 lb) | 8–12 years (giant breeds closer to 8–10) | Golden Retriever 10–12, Labrador 10–12, German Shepherd 9–13, Great Dane 8–10 |
What Affects a Dog's Lifespan
Size
The strongest predictor — smaller dogs consistently outlive larger ones, likely due to slower aging and lower rates of certain cancers.
Breed
Some breeds carry genetic predispositions to specific conditions that can shorten average lifespan even within the same size class.
Diet & Weight
Keeping your dog at an ideal weight is one of the most controllable factors — overweight dogs can live up to 2 years less.
Exercise
Regular activity supports cardiovascular and joint health, and helps maintain a healthy weight.
Spay/Neuter
Spaying/neutering is linked to a longer average lifespan in many studies, alongside a lower risk of certain cancers.
Veterinary Care
Regular checkups catch problems early — dental disease, in particular, is linked to broader health issues if left untreated.
How to Help Your Dog Live Longer
Keep your dog at a healthy weight (use our Dog Weight Calculator to check), feed a balanced diet appropriate for their life stage, keep up with regular exercise, and don't skip annual (or twice-yearly for seniors) veterinary checkups and dental care.
Lifespan vs. Human-Year Age
Curious what your dog's current age means in human terms? Use our Dog Age Calculator to convert their age to human years based on breed size.
Lifespan figures are general averages compiled from AKC-cited data and will vary by individual dog, genetics and care. They are not a guarantee or medical prediction.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do small dogs live?
Small breeds commonly live 10–15 years, with some individuals reaching as long as 18 years, according to the AKC.
How long do large dogs live?
Large breeds typically live 8–12 years, while giant breeds are usually on the shorter end of that range, around 8–10 years.
What dog lives the longest?
Small breeds tend to live longest overall — Chihuahuas commonly reach 15–17 years, with some individuals living even longer.
Can dogs live 20 years?
Yes, though it's uncommon — mostly seen in small breeds with excellent genetics, diet and care.