All They Need is Love: Dog Breeds That Live the Longest

7. Australian Shepherd

Average lifespan: about 15 years

In general, smaller dogs live longer than larger dogs, but the Aussie⁠—who can stand up to 23 inches tall and can weigh up to 65 lbs.⁠—is a rare exception to the rule. Famed for being excellent herders with high energy levels, Australian shepherds are a mainstay in American cowboy culture for their ability to herd bulls and are commonly found on the rodeo circuit. Here’s a secret: despite their name, they aren’t even Australian. Or American, for that matter. They originally hail from the Basque region of Spain.