Table of Contents

Breed

The popular believe that mixed races are healthier is empirically and statistically true, but my own experience is that they also can inherit all the bad stuff from the involved races.
A pure breed would then be the enemy I know. Also, not only health, but temperament and adult size are easier to predict for a puppy as well. Small breeds generally live longer than larger ones — typically reaching 16+ years compared to 10-13 years for medium/large breeds.
Key to longevity across all breeds: high-quality diet, regular exercise, healthy weight, routine veterinary care including wellness exams, vaccines, parasite prevention, and dental cleanings.

Current candidates:

All four are small breeds, and small dogs generally live longer than larger ones—typically reaching 16+ years compared to 10-13 years for medium/large breeds.

Criteria to Select and Compare Breeds

Papillon

Named for their unique, wing-shaped ears that resemble the silhouette of a butterfly, this spunky little dog is a member of the toy group. Believed to be a native of France and Belgium, the Papillon can be found in works of Italian Renaissance art dating back to the 1500s and was a favored companion of noble families. Aside from their iconic, pointed ears that are further exaggerated by the long, wispy hair that grows around them, the Papillon is known for its distinct coat pattern and silky fur. Did you know that a Papillon with dropped ears is called a Phalène, which is the French word for moth?

Papillons have a withers height between 8”-11” (20-28 cm) and a weight in the range of 5-10 lb (2.3-4.5 kg). The Papillon has an overall body length of roughly 12”-17” (30-43 cm), standing height of 12”-16.5” (30-42 cm), and a typical lifespan of 14-16 years.

Jack Russel

Zwergpinscher

Comparisons

Dogster_Side by Side Comparison_German Spitz vs Pomeranian