If you’re picking a pet, why not choose one that sticks around?
Some cats and dogs are here for a good time and a long time. We’re talking about the loyal shadows that follow you from one decade into the next—through every move, milestone, and midnight snack.
While every pet feels like they leave too soon, some breeds are blessed with extra years of tail wags, purrs, and personality. They might be small, spunky, or just freakishly healthy—but they know how to stick around.
We’ve ranked 20 beloved breeds by longevity, mixing the canine cuddlers with the feline forever-friends. If you’re looking for a bond that stands the test of time, start here.
Burmese Cat
Burmese cats are famed for their glossy coats and affectionate nature. With their striking eyes, they easily capture attention and hearts. These cats are social butterflies, thriving on companionship and interaction.
Bursting with energy, Burmese cats enjoy playful antics but also value downtime cuddling with their humans. Known for their robust health, they can live up to 18-20 years when cared for well.
Fun fact: Despite their sophisticated appearance, Burmese cats are notorious for their playful mischiefs. If you’re seeking a blend of companionship and adventure, the Burmese cat might just be your ideal choice.
Chihuahua
Tiny yet mighty, Chihuahuas pack a lot of personality into their small frames. Known for their feisty demeanor, they bring a spark to any household. With proper care, these little dogs often live well into their late teens.
Their devotion to their owners is boundless, making them both sassy companions and loyal friends.
Did you know? Chihuahuas are one of the oldest dog breeds in the Americas, descended from the Techichi dogs of ancient Mexico. Their rich history adds depth to their captivating character.
Siamese Cat
Siamese cats boast elegance and intelligence. Renowned for their striking blue eyes and vocal nature, they engage their owners with animated conversations. Their affectionate nature ensures they’re always by your side, providing warmth and companionship.
With lifespans reaching up to 15-20 years, they reward their owners with years of loyalty.
A curious trait? These cats have been known to fetch, much like dogs. If you’re after a cat that’s both beautiful and interactive, the Siamese fits the bill perfectly.
Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles are synonymous with grace and intelligence. These petite, charming dogs excel in agility and obedience, capturing hearts with their poise. Their hypoallergenic coat and impressive trainability add to their allure.
Remarkably, Toy Poodles often enjoy lifespans of 14-18 years, making them enduring companions.
Fun tidbit: Despite their delicate appearance, Toy Poodles were initially bred as hunting dogs in Germany. Their historical roots lend a fascinating depth to their sophisticated demeanor.
Russian Blue
Known for their mysterious allure, Russian Blue cats captivate with their plush blue coats and vivid green eyes. These cats possess a calm demeanor, marked by a gentle playfulness. Their loyalty and affection are unwavering.
They are known to live up to 15-20 years, offering long-term companionship.
Interestingly, Russian Blues are believed to have originated from the Archangel Isles in Russia, adding an air of mystique to their already enchanting presence.
Shih Tzu
With their flowing coats and spirited nature, Shih Tzus are both robust and charming. Known for their sociable personality, they thrive on attention and play.
These dogs, with their affectionate nature, are great companions for families and individuals alike. Typically living 10-18 years, they offer lasting love and joy.
Did you know? Shih Tzus were originally bred for Chinese royalty, signifying their noble heritage. Their royal past adds to their already distinguished and lovable character.
Persian Cat
Persian cats are synonymous with regal elegance, known for their long, luxurious coats and expressive eyes. Their calm and gentle nature makes them ideal companions, particularly for those who appreciate tranquility.
These cats enjoy a lifespan of 12-17 years, ensuring many years of serene companionship.
Fun fact: Persians have been a fixture in art and literature, celebrated for their timeless beauty. Their storied past only adds to the majestic aura they exude in modern homes.
Dachshund
Dachshunds, with their distinctive long bodies and spirited nature, bring joy and amusement to any home. Their inquisitive minds and playful antics make them delightful companions for families.
With lifespans extending from 12-16 years, they promise enduring loyalty and love.
Historically, Dachshunds were bred for hunting, a trait that still shows in their adventurous spirit. Their playful curiosity and unique build make them both entertaining and endearing.
Maine Coon
Maine Coons are gentle giants, known for their impressive size and amiable nature. Despite their large build, these cats are remarkably gentle and social, fitting well into family dynamics.
They enjoy robust health and can live up to 12-15 years, providing loyal companionship.
A fun tidbit: Maine Coons are renowned for their hunting skills and have a fascinating history as ship cats in New England. Their storied past only enriches their charismatic charm.
Beagle
Beagles, with their merry demeanor and keen sense of smell, are a joy to behold. Their curious nature and boundless energy make them excellent companions for active families.
Typically living 12-15 years, they bring joy and adventure to their households.
Did you know? Beagles are one of the oldest breeds, with roots tracing back to ancient Greece. Their rich history adds depth to their already delightful presence.
Bengal Cat
Bengal cats, with their exotic appearance and energetic nature, captivate with every move. Known for their stunning spotted coats, they resemble miniature leopards.
Living 12-16 years, Bengals offer a long-term bond filled with playful interaction and affection.
A fascinating fact: Bengals are a hybrid breed, originally developed from domestic cats and Asian leopard cats, lending them their unique appearance and spirited nature.
Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos exude an air of dignity and charm, known for their flowing coats and confident demeanor. These dogs are friendly yet alert, wonderful companions for those who appreciate loyalty and independence.
With lifespans of 12-15 years, they promise lasting companionship.
Interestingly, Lhasa Apsos were originally bred in Tibet as sentinel dogs for monasteries, a testament to their vigilant nature and esteemed heritage.
Ragdoll Cat
Ragdoll cats are renowned for their gentle demeanor and striking blue eyes. These cats have a soft, plush coat and are known to go limp when held, embodying their name.
They often live 12-17 years, providing calm and affectionate companionship.
An endearing trait: Ragdolls are particularly fond of following their owners and are often called “puppy-like” due to their loyal and friendly nature.
Pomeranian
Pomeranians are small dogs with abundant energy and charisma. Their fluffy coats and lively personalities make them stand out in any crowd. Despite their size, they often have a big-dog attitude, offering both companionship and entertainment.
With lifespans of 12-16 years, they are cherished for their enduring loyalty.
Did you know? Pomeranians were once much larger sled-pulling dogs from the Arctic, a history that adds to their intriguing character.
Himalayan Cat
Himalayan cats are a blend of beauty and calmness, known for their striking appearance and gentle demeanor. Their long, luxurious coats and vivid blue eyes make them a sight to behold.
Typically living 12-15 years, they offer serene companionship and affection.
A fascinating detail: Himalayans are a cross between Persian and Siamese cats, combining the best traits of both breeds in an unforgettable package.
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are like little clouds of joy, known for their cheerful disposition and hypoallergenic coats. Their playful nature and adaptability make them well-suited for families and singles alike.
These doggies can live up to 12-15 years, providing years of joy and laughter.
Did you know? The Bichon Frise has a rich history, once favored by European nobility. Their charming demeanor and beauty have stood the test of time.
Abyssinian Cat
Abyssinians are dynamic and lively cats, known for their energetic play and curiosity. Their sleek, ticked coats and large, expressive eyes give them a wild and exotic appearance.
Living 9-15 years, Abyssinians promise a life full of play and discovery.
A quirky trait: These cats are often called “Aby-grabbys” for their tendency to grab objects of interest, showcasing their playful and inquisitive nature.
Maltese
Maltese dogs embody elegance and charm, known for their silky white coats and gentle demeanor. These dogs are friendly and affectionate, thriving on human interaction and companionship.
With lifespans of 12-15 years, Maltese dogs offer enduring love and joy.
Interestingly, the Maltese is one of the oldest toy breeds, with a history dating back to ancient civilizations. Their storied past adds depth to their delightful presence in modern homes.
Balinese Cat
Balinese cats are a vision of elegance, known for their long, flowing coats and sapphire-blue eyes. These cats are affectionate and intelligent, often engaging their owners with playful antics and companionship.
Living 12-20 years, Balinese cats reward their families with lasting loyalty and affection.
Did you know? Despite their exotic appearance, Balinese cats are actually the long-haired variety of the Siamese breed, combining beauty with the Siamese’s intelligence and vocal nature.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are epitomes of affection and charm, known for their expressive eyes and wagging tails. These dogs seamlessly blend into family life, offering both companionship and joy.
With lifespans of 9-14 years, they promise years of love and loyalty.
Fun fact: This breed was a favorite of King Charles II, whose enduring affection for these dogs helped shape their delightful and loving character.