Is 15 years a long life for a dog?

What Is the Average Lifespan of a Dog?

People love having dogs as companion animals for many reasons. Dogs provide unconditional love and loyalty, comfort when feeling lonely or scared, and entertainment with their silly behaviors. Dogs can also provide a sense of security since they are often alert to potential danger in the home. Having a dog around can increase physical activity levels due to regular walks and outdoor playtime.

The death of a beloved pet is heartbreaking for families because these furry friends become part of their family dynamic. They offer companionship for children who may be struggling socially or emotionally, as well as providing someone to talk to during difficult times. Pets also ease loneliness by always being there with unconditional love no matter what life throws at us. When our pets pass away, it leaves an emotional hole in our lives that can take time and effort to fill again. This is why losing a pet is so hard on everyone involved.

If you ever find yourself questioning, “How long do dogs live?” there is a lot of information to consider. Here is how you can determine an approximate lifespan for your canine companion and how you can take steps to guarantee they are with you for as long as possible.

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What is The Average Lifespan of a Dog?

The life expectancy of a canine can vary between 10 to 13 years, with various breeds and sizes being taken into account. Domestic dogs come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and looks, which is largely due to human intervention. This is why the life expectancy of a Chihuahua differs greatly from that of a Great Dane.

Generally, smaller breeds of dogs tend to live longer than larger ones. The reason for this is unknown, as typically, smaller mammals possess shorter lifespans than larger animals. It is possible that medical conditions that affect older dogs (like bladder control problems or issues with mobility) could be simpler to manage in smaller breeds, leading to prolonged life. Additionally, there seem to be some differences in the types of ailments experienced by different sizes of dog breeds.

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Heredity factors strongly into the longevity of canines. Purebred canines are at a higher hazard for hereditary ailments since they are bred from other dogs with similar genes. Mixed-breed dogs, however, have a lower chance of facing these same diseases, which likely adds to their extended lifespans. Some breeds are purposely bred with certain qualities, which may, unfortunately, bring about a shorter lifespan. An example of this is brachycephalic dogs such as an English Bulldog, which have a higher probability of heatstroke and respiratory-related diseases due to their undersized trachea.

How Long Do Small Dogs Live?

Typically, small-sized dogs have the most extended lifespans, with a range of 10-15 years. However, as they mature, these long-life breeds are more susceptible to certain ailments such as kidney, liver, and adrenal disease, in addition to heart problems. They are also highly likely to endure dental issues, which can further aggravate the other illnesses.

How Long Do Medium-Sized Dogs Live

Medium-sized dogs typically have a lifespan of around 11 to 13 years, depending on their breed. This can range from 8 years for larger breeds, such as Airedale Terriers or Labrador Retrievers, to 15+ years for smaller breeds, like water spaniels and cattle dogs. To get the most out of your pup’s life, it is important to provide them with adequate nutrition, exercise, and regular vet visits. Proper socialization and training are also essential in ensuring that your dog lives a long and happy life!

How Long Do Large Dogs Live?

Large-breed dogs tend to have a life expectancy of 9-12 years, which is slightly shorter than that of medium size breeds. This range can vary greatly depending on the breed and other factors such as lifestyle, health conditions, and diet. For example, golden retrievers are particularly prone to cancer and may not live as long as other breeds of the same size.

As large dogs get older, they are more prone to developing difficult-to-manage arthritis or certain types of cancer. To help extend their lifespan, provide them with regular checkups, quality nutrition, and exercise so any potential issues can be caught early before they become serious problems.

How Long Do Giant Dogs Live?

Unfortunately, giant breed dogs have the shortest average lifespan at 8-10 years. At only six years old, a Great Dane is considered to be a senior pet due to their large size and the strain it puts on its joints. Giant dogs are also more prone to certain types of illnesses, such as bone cancers and neurologic diseases than smaller breeds. Therefore, owners of these larger breeds should pay extra attention to their pet’s health to ensure they live out the fullest life possible.

How To Help Your Dog Live Longer

Research the Breed

If you are looking to adopt a specific breed of dog, it is critical to do your research and find a conscientious breeder who is invested in the overall health of their animals. A responsible breeder will typically test for common illnesses in their puppies’ parents, and this information can help you make an educated decision when it comes to selecting a pup. Knowing the average lifespan and health concerns related to the breed can help you ensure that your canine companion can live a long and healthy life.

Adopt a Dog

Adopting a shelter pup can bring a myriad of unknowns, but they are not at high risk of having breed-specific illnesses and diseases. When in doubt, testing their DNA can help you to identify any potential illnesses that may arise based on their breed. In doing so, you can prepare for any health issues that may come up and help your dog live longer.

Regular Vet Visits

It is essential to follow your vet’s advice for preventive health care. Vaccinations, as well as heartworm, flea, and tick prevention, depending on your location, will protect your pet from illnesses. Has routine testing been done every year to check for intestinal and blood parasites? Talk to your veterinarian about having a bloodwork panel to observe the health of the bone marrow, kidneys, and liver. Establishing a baseline in young dogs and monitoring it annually as they get older can aid in detecting diseases early when they are easier to manage. Additionally, more tests should be done for senior dogs due to the potential for age-related issues. If you have a breed at high-risk for cancer or dysplasia, having regular x-rays or ultrasounds done can be of huge benefit to catch these diseases early enough to treat.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Another key to making sure your dog has a long life is to maintain their weight. Research has found that dogs who are kept in a healthy body condition usually live two years longer than those that are overweight. It’s important to keep track of your dog’s food and snacks and make adjustments in their intake as their metabolism changes. If you’re not sure if your pet is at a good weight, consider asking your vet for help.

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5 facts about: How old do dogs get?

You want to know how old dogs get? The answer to these questions and a few exciting facts on this topic I have written for you in this guide. I would be surprised if you already know all the facts! So have fun reading.

Also, for this article I have taken Advice from veterinarian Mag.med.vet. Emin Jasarevic obtained. Note: This article is written for the german country. So be curious.

Table of Contents

Dog life expectancy

How old do dogs get?

Actually, it is impossible to give a blanket answer to this question. Because life expectancy depends on various factors, such as:

• Breed, genetics, breed size
• Living conditions
• Nutrition
• Care
• Environment
• Activity

When calculating the average life expectancy of dogs, the breed is taken as a starting point. The breed is divided into small, medium and large dog breeds.

• Small breeds: up to 15 kg body weight
• Medium breeds: 15 to 45 kg body weight
• Large breeds: more than 45 kg body weight

Rule of thumb: The smaller the breed, the higher the life expectancy.

Normally, in the animal kingdom, larger animal species live longer. Elephants and whales, for example, are among the largest and longest-lived animals on earth.

Science has long pondered why it doesn’t work the same way for our four-legged friends.

According to a study by Dr. Cornelia Kraus (University of Göttingen), larger dog breeds have a shorter life expectancy because they age faster.

Because the development phase of a puppy of the large breed progresses faster than the small breeds.

Thus, the accelerated growth rate may be responsible for cell growth progressing abnormally and the cancer rate may be higher in large breeds.

Remember: The average service life is:

• Small breeds: 10 to 15 years.
  Some can even live up to 18 years.
• Medium breeds: 10 to 13 years.
  Some of the breeds can also live longer.
• Large breeds: 8 to 12 years
• Giant breeds: 8 to 10 years

These numbers are, as mentioned before, the average age. Thus, dogs can also become significantly older or unfortunately die at a significantly younger age.

Average life expectancy of individual breeds

According to the American Kennel Club (governing body of purebred dog breeders USA), the Dogue de Bordeaux with an average of 5 to 8 years the shortest life expectancy.

With an average of 15 to 19 years, the Coton de Tuléar (cotton dog) has the highest life expectancy.

Table in list form

Here you can find a table of the different breeds and their life expectancy in alphabetical order:

Do mixed breeds live longer?

In general, mixed breeds really live longer.

Breeders of purebred dogs take the size or special breed characteristics of the dogs as an approach when breeding.

According to Dr. Kraus, it would be possible to increase life expectancy if life expectancy were considered instead of these breed characteristics.

For example, the researcher recommends, «If you want to live with your dog as long as possible, you have the best chance if you choose a mixed breed, and a rather small one at that.»

«Dog Years» vs. «Human Years»

The old rule that 1 dog year equals 7 human years is long outdated.

Meanwhile, the size or weight of the dog is also included in the conversion. Please note that the following table are only estimates:

How can I ensure a long & fulfilling life for my dog?

The Guinness Book of Records lists «Bluey» as the oldest dog. Bluey was an Australian hunting dog.

He lived in Australia / Rochester as a working dog among cattle and sheep. He was 29 years and 5 months old. He was purchased as a puppy in 1910 and euthanized on November 14, 1939.

Of course, the life expectancy of a dog depends not only on its breed or weight.

The design of his life is also crucial. The healthier and more active he lives, the higher the life expectancy can be.

Just as with humans

• Balanced diet
• Much movement
• Physical care and spiritual care
• Regular preventive medical visits

also for our dear dogs the basics for a high life expectancy and a full life.

Most common causes of early death

Of course, it would be wonderful if our furry noses could reach the average life expectancy or not leave us at all.

Unfortunately, there are illnesses or circumstances when our loved ones can’t cope and have to leave us unexpectedly. The most common causes are:

1. cancer

Cancer is a common cause of death in large dog breeds. Why the cancer rate is higher in larger dogs compared to smaller breeds has not yet been fully elucidated.

However, scientists believe that it is due to the faster growth rate in puppies. Thus, the cells are more prone to develop abnormally, which increases the risk of cancer.

The symptoms of cancer are:

• Node
• Poorly healing or non-healing wounds
• Weight loss
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Bloated belly
• Abnormal bleeding
• Weakness
• Swellings

2. injuries

The spectrum of injuries that can be fatal for dogs is diverse. It can be a car accident or the aftermath of a bite from a conspecific.

The incidence of these deaths is higher in puppies and small dog breeds. Working dogs are also more likely to be affected.

You can take easy steps to ensure your charge doesn’t suffer from preventable injuries:

• Never walk without a leash.
• Always keep a caring eye on your best friend — even when you’re at home.
• Eliminate the sources of danger in your apartment. It should be dog-proof (decorative objects, balcony, stairs, electrical outlet, cables lying around, poisonous plants, etc.).

3. hereditary diseases

Hereditary diseases are not always detectable or predictable. Here, it is important that you purchase your dog from a breeder who is responsible with their breeding methods.

So you can reduce the risk to the minimum. There are many breeders who also take life expectancy and health to heart in their breeding. They have their breeding bitches and males medically examined for hereditary diseases before they are used.

4. infections

Since preventive vaccinations have been available, many dangerous infectious diseases are not as big a risk as they used to be. Nevertheless, every year numerous dogs become ill or even fatalities due to various infectious diseases.

You can reduce this risk: Have your pet vaccinated regularly and take him to the vet for regular checkups.

5. overweight

As a good example of this is the USA. About 34 % of dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese. That’s a valid reason to be concerned.

Because researchers have proven that the life expectancy of dogs with overweight or obesity is on average two years shorter compared to dogs with a normal body weight.

Excess weight puts a strain on your dog’s musculoskeletal system — the consequences can be osteoarthritis and disc disease.

In addition, the risk of developing diabetes or pancreatitis is very high. Cardiovascular disorders and respiratory problems are also unwelcome guests.

That’s why you should give your dog a balanced diet and make sure he gets plenty of exercise. Please do not forget that dogs are active creatures since their origin.

They need this activity not only for their physical health, but also for their mental health and balance.