What breed ages best?

[ravennr]

It's the trend to get a dog now that looks like a puppy it's entire life. For what reason, I do not know. I love puppies, everyone does, but I LIKE and ENJOY watching my puppy grow into a gorgeous adult. That's one of the best parts, even if we don't always welcome it with fully open arms.

So what breed really does age the best, in general? Regarding health, as well as appearance.

 

[Laurelin]

I think it depends on the dog. Trey looks absolutely great for over eleven years and Nikki shows her age a lot. They're the same breed. Of course that could be the quality of breeding too. Though there is something really sweet about a gray faced senior dog.

 

[Giny]

I had a 12 year old Westie come in today that still looked like a puppy.

 

[Toller_08]

I have no idea. There was a 15 year old Border Collie at the vet's office the other day and I wouldn't have guesed her to be much more than a year old.

 

[Sush]

In my experience I have seen 15 year old Pomeranians that look like they are still pups I think it very much depends on the quality of care they've recieved throughout their lives. The smaller breeds usually have a longer lifespan, therefore age a bit better than the larger breeds.

 

[EbonyDal]

I have had a 19 year old dachshund and a 22+ year old dalmatian; but both were probably exceptions to the average. I have heard that Schipperke [sp?] have great longevity and stay young-ish for many years.

 

[MelissaCato]

I'd have to say a Scottish Terrier and a Greyhound.

 

[Boemy]

Small dogs generally live the longest, I think. I've seen some very spry senior chihuahuas.

My border collie / lab mix lived to be 14. You could tell she was older because she had a grey muzzle and walked with care (arthritis) but she did still run and play up until a few days before she died.