This Dog Breed Typically Lives More Than 15 Years

Dogs are known to enrich our lives in a multitude of ways. Studies have shown that our furry companions have been shown to reduce our anxiety, depression, and stress levels, and interacting with them increases our levels of oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine – the so-called "happy hormones." But that's not all – they also increase our physical health by taking them – and us – on daily walks.

Not all dogs have the same lifespan. The average lifespan of a dog is 10 to 13 years but several factors can contribute to many longer or shorter years. Size, health factors, and genetics are just some of the factors that play a significant role in determining how long your dog may live. However, some dogs are still known for their longevity and certain breeds have longer lifespans than others.

To compile a list of dog breeds known for their exceptionally long lifespans, 24/7 Tempo reviewed a new study published in the journal Scientific Reports of nearly 600,000 British dogs from more than 150 breeds. (Here is a list of the 20 most loyal dog breeds.)

Here are dog breeds known for their exceptionally long lifespans:

• Average lifespan: 14 years

The Welsh springer spaniel is a hunting dog, strong and agile with a muscular build. It's a purebred that's considered generally healthy with only minor health concerns.

• Average lifespan: 14 years

Standing at only six inches tall, the miniature dachshund weighs up to 11 pounds. With a nutritious diet and enough exercise to keep toned, this pup enjoys a long, healthy life.

• Average lifespan: 14 years

Both playful and alert, the Italian greyhound grows to weigh up to 14 pounds. This is a purebred lapdog that loves to chase. Though it may appear delicate, this breed enjoys a long life with minimal health concerns.

• Average lifespan: 14 years

The Cairn Terrier is a small ball of furry cheer, weighing up to 14 pounds. Reputable breeders preserve the health of these pups, which is why they are generally healthy.

• Average lifespan: 14 years

The standard poodle is intelligent and active, growing to weigh up to 70 pounds if male and 50 pounds if female. These dogs are healthy as a result of responsible breeding, though they may develop minor issues (especially the toy and miniature varieties).

• Average lifespan: 14 years

The Australian cattle dog is strong with a muscular build and savvy enough to outsmart you. Proper testing on both the sire and dam before breeding results in a healthy pup.

• Average lifespan: 14 years

These social and affectionate dogs are small, standing at 10 inches tall, and weighing, on average, 12 pounds. They have a long history of good health, though they are susceptible to developing dental disease.

• Average lifespan: 14 years

Lively and loyal, the German spitz mittel may be different sizes, including toy, medium, and large. Most German spitz mittels are healthy, but there have been cases of progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), patella luxation, and retinal dysplasia (RD) in this breed.

• Average lifespan: 14 years

The Swedish Vallhund is a herding dog that's friendly and bursting with energy. In 2017, a genetic test made it easier for breeders to identify carriers of retinopathy, which has helped to ensure healthy offspring.

• Average lifespan: 14 years

These long-haired pups are amusing and intelligent. These dogs are generally healthy, especially when obtained from conscientious breeders who are aware of hereditary kidney dysfunction and work toward eradicating it.

• Average lifespan: 14.1 years

This confident pup is affectionate and grows to weigh up to 70 pounds. Large Münsterländers are robust dogs when they come from a reputable breeder, as they focus on reducing the possibility of disease.

• Average lifespan: 14.2 years

With a schipperke, you're never bored. These dogs are full of energy and curiosity and weigh between 10 and 16 pounds on average. Responsible breeding results in a healthy, long-lived companion pup.

• Average lifespan: 14.2 years

The border terrier is a happy pup, generous with its affection. Generally healthy due to assiduous breeding, this pup enjoys a long life. However, this breed may be sensitive to heat, which requires limiting outdoor play on hot days.

• Average lifespan: 14.2 years

Another happy pup, the Coton de Tulear will charm you within seconds of meeting. This small breed dog is nearly free of genetic health conditions, which means they can enjoy a long, healthy lifespan.

• Average lifespan: 14.2 years

You can't miss a Lakeland terrier, as it stands boldly, and full of confidence. This breed only weighs about 17 pounds and there are minimal health conditions reported at low incidences, which gives owners peace of mind.

• Average lifespan: 14.5 years

The Havanese is an outgoing pup that'll give you the gift of laughter throughout its lifetime. These pups require daily grooming to keep their silky coats healthy and they generally live long, healthy lives.

• Average lifespan: 14.5 years

This small pup is friendly and compact, weighing only five to 10 pounds on average. The papillon is a brave breed, seemingly unaware of its size. Owners should take great care to avoid accidentally hurting these tiny pups that have a long lifespan to enjoy.

• Average lifespan: 14.6 years

Attentive and active, the Shiba Inu is extremely affectionate. At one time, this pup was a hunter. Today, the most common problem for a Shiba Inu is allergies.

• Average lifespan: 14.9 years

These fluffy pups have gentle and playful personalities. They're small, only weighing six to 10 pounds on average. Most of these dogs are healthy, especially when they are acquired from a good breeder.

• Average lifespan: 15.2 years

The Tibetan spaniel is a playful pup that stands 10 inches tall and weighs nine to 15 pounds on average. These are relatively healthy dogs who should be thoroughly tested before moving into their forever homes.

• Average lifespan: 15.4 years

The pup with the longest lifespan is the Lancashire heeler. This dog is friendly and eager to learn new tasks. Breeders have been aggressive in eliminating health conditions, allowing this breed to thrive well into their teen years.