No matter how much we love dogs we have to one day say goodbye to them. Dogs, compared to humans, have a much shorter life span because of which we only have limited time with them, and before we know it our pets have already lived their entire lives and are ready to go to the pet heaven. No matter how much we prepare we can never be ready to bid farewell to our beloved furry friend but nature is absolute. Many dog owners worry about it and often ask how long do dogs live. Today we shall uncover the truth so stick with us till the end to find out how long can a dog live. Let’s begin!
The Average Dog Lifespan
The average life span of dogs can vary greatly depending on the dog’s size and breed. Smaller dogs tend to live longer than larger dogs. The reasons for this are many which we will discuss later but first let’s find out the average life span of dogs. Below, you’ll find the average heights and lifespans categorized by small, medium, and large breeds
Small Breeds (Average lifespan: 12 to 16 years)
Typically, small dogs stand about 8 to 15 inches (20 to 38 cm) tall at the shoulder. Famous small breeds include:
- Chihuahua: 5 to 8 inches (13 to 20 cm), lifespan 14 to 16 years
- Pomeranian: 7 to 12 inches (18 to 30 cm), lifespan 12 to 16 years
- Dachshund: 8 to 9 inches (20 to 23 cm), lifespan 12 to 15 years
Medium Breeds (Average lifespan: 10 to 13 years)
Medium-sized dogs usually range from 15 to 25 inches (38 to 63 cm) tall.
Famous medium breeds include:
- Beagle: 13 to 15 inches (33 to 38 cm), lifespan 12 to 15 years
- Border Collie: 18 to 22 inches (46 to 56 cm), lifespan 12 to 15 years
- Bulldog: 14 to 15 inches (35 to 38 cm), lifespan 8 to 10 years
Large Breeds (Average lifespan: 8 to 12 years)
Large dogs typically stand between 25 to 30+ inches (63 to 76 cm) tall.
Famous large breeds include:
- Golden Retriever: 21 to 24 inches (53 to 61 cm), lifespan 10 to 12 years
- German Shepherd: 22 to 26 inches (56 to 66 cm), lifespan 9 to 13 years
- Great Dane: 28 to 34 inches (71 to 86 cm), lifespan 7 to 10 years
How To Help Your Dog Live Longer
Every dog owner wishes to spend as much time with their dogs as possible It is our nature to cherish our loved ones. No one wants to be separated from those whom they care about. I as a dog owner myself wish for my dogs to live a long and healthy life. Here is how you can help your dog live longer:
1. Weight management and balanced diet
Weight management is essential in keeping your dogs healthy. It is a proven fact that a healthy lifestyle leads to a longer lifespan. Generally, dogs with a healthy weight live on average 2 years longer than overweight dogs. Weight management is only possible through a balanced diet. Your dog needs all essential nutrients in order for it to grow healthy and fit. Consult your vet to formulate a healthy diet plan for your dog and avoid feeding it sweet and fat-heavy treats.
2. Regular Exercise
Walks and other activities such as swimming, fetch, and physical training are essential for a healthy lifestyle for your dogs Just like us, our dogs require exercise to keep them physically fit, healthy, and in good condition. Exercise also helps burn excess fat and keep your dog’s heart healthy and strong reducing the chances of heart disease.
3. Routine Vet Checkup
Routine veterinary checkups can help you catch any healthy complication early and promptly deal with it. Vets can guide you and share their professional knowledge and tips for a healthier future. Regular health checkups also ensure your dog’s health stays in optimal condition under the supervision of an expert.
Why Do Small Dogs Live Longer?
Small dogs tend to live longer than large dogs due to several biological and genetic factors. Here’s why:
1. Metabolism and Aging
Since big dogs have more rapid metabolisms, they complete their growing and aging processes much more quickly than small dogs. This rapid cell division during the growing phase is believed to cause faster cell wear and shorter life spans. Contrary to this, small dogs have slower growth and slower aging; which usually results in a longer life.
2. Strain on Organs
Since bigger dogs have more body mass, the strain on their organs, especially the heart, is much bigger. In the long run, this increased load can lead to an earlier failure of the organ than in smaller dogs, whose organs do not have such a heavy tax.
3. Genetic Factors
Larger breeds are more predisposed to specific health problems, such as hip dysplasia, heart conditions, and cancer. These afflictions typically strike and take the lives of big dogs more than they do small dogs. Smaller dogs are less likely to be affected by such diseases.
4. Energy expenditure
This means that, because of increased energy output, the bodies of larger dogs work harder at a cellular level to meet basic functions, and this can lead to quicker aging at the cellular level. As a result, their bodies are working at a higher rate and thus wear out faster.
Conclusion
How long do dogs live is a question that worries every dog owner. It is frightening to think that our beloved dogs will one day leave us but it is an undeniable fact and we should work on keeping our dogs healthy and live a happy, loved, and healthy life. That is it for today but keep visiting Petlyx for more information regarding your pet problems, you are always welcome!
