How long do dogs live and how to extend their life?

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

Don't forget about vaccinations and follow your pet's diet.

How many different breeds of dogs live

This largely depends on the size. Long-lived dogs are more common among miniature dogs. So, some Spitz and Chihuahuas live up to 15 years, medium and large dogs usually live from 10 to 13 years, and some giant breeds, such as mastiffs, about 7-8 years.

Difficulties are experienced by representatives of breeds with certain characteristics. For example, in brachycephalic. These include pugs, Pekingese, bulldogs and other dogs with short muzzles. Often these have problems with the respiratory system due to anatomy.

Here is the average of How Long Do Dogs Live? A Complete Guide to Canine Lifespan for Some Popular Breeds:

• English Cocker Spaniel - 11, 5 years old;
• English Setter - 11, 5 years old;
• Afghan Hound - 12 years old;
• beagle - 12, 5 years old;
• Bichon Frize - 13 years old;
• border collie - 13 years old;
• border terrier - 14 years old;
• boxer - 10 years old;
• bearded collie - 13, 5 years old;
• bulldog - 6 years old;
• bull terrier - 10 years old;
• Greyhound - 9 years old;
• Jack Russell Terrier - 13, 5 years old;
• deerhound - 8, 5 years old;
• Doberman - 10, 5 years old;
• Irish Setter - 12 years old;
• Yorkshire Terrier - 12, 5 years old;
• golden retriever - 12 years old;
• miniature poodle - 14 years old;
• Labrador Retriever - 12 years old;
• mastiff - 7 years old;
• pug - 11 years old;
• Great Dane - 6, 5 years old;
• Newfoundland - 9, 5 years old;
• straight-haired retriever - 10 years old;
• Rottweiler - 9 years old;
• Chihuahua - 12, 5 years old;
• Airedale Terrier - 11 years old.

All these indicators are rather arbitrary and can change under the influence of various factors: conditions of detention, diet, diseases and more.

As for mixed breed dogs, according to the Estimating the Life Expectancy of Companion Dogs in Japan Using Pet Cemetery Data, they live on average 1, 2 years longer than their purebred breeds.

How to extend the life of a dog

How long a dog will live depends largely on its owners. Follow these simple tips to create the right environment for your pet.

1. Take care of your dog's health

Take your pet to the vet periodically, even if the four-legged friend seems perfectly healthy. This will help identify latent ailments in the early stages. Vaccinate your dog against plague, rabies, leptospirosis and other dangerous diseases. And then, do not skip the scheduled booster vaccinations, which are usually done every year.

Pay attention to any changes in your pet's behavior and mood. They can be symptoms of disease.

As for sterilization, the decision is yours. According to research by Spayed or neutered dogs live longer, such procedures in most cases prolong the life of dogs.

But there are risks as well. Dogs that have undergone a gonadectomy (removal of the gonads) are more likely to suffer from cancer or autoimmune diseases. And tailed beasts, which have not been operated on, often die from infections and injuries. These observations were shared by Spayed or neutered dogs live longer scientists from the University of Georgia, USA.

2. Feed your dog properly

Choose a diet that suits your pet's weight, age, and breed. Consider the chronic diseases that the animal has. If you find it difficult to do it yourself, consult your veterinarian.

Make sure your dog has access to clean water. This is especially true in hot summer.

Serve food in small portions that meet the needs of your faithful companion. Do not overfeed or become obese.

Studies of Overweight dogs may live shorter lives by scientists from the University of Liverpool have shown that overweight animals live shorter lives. The numbers vary by breed. So, obesity can shorten the life of a male German shepherd dog for up to six months, and in the case of Yorkshire terriers we are talking about two and a half years.

3. Exercise with your dog

Give your pet enough attention, play with it, and do not miss a walk yet.

Psam needs 11 Ways You’re Shortening Your Dog’s Life daily physical activity. They help to maintain good shape and vigor, as well as have a positive effect on health. Depending on the pet's needs, you can combine different options: walking, running, grabbing, playing games such as pulling, and even swimming.

Consider the characteristics of the breed and even age. Check with your veterinarian for what and how much exercise your dog needs.

Monitor the condition of your pet while exercising and walking. Give your dog some rest if you notice excessive shortness of breath or lethargy.