These 12 Dog Breeds Have the Shortest Lifespans. Steer Clear if You Can’t Handle Loss
Milka Mullanda
|
It’s long been said that adopting a dog is more or less adopting a future heartbreak, given their woefully short lifespans….well, compared to ours. What’s even worse is we have to face the nerve-racking reality that some breeds have way shorter life expectancies than other breeds.
Generally speaking, a majority of the shortest-living dog breeds often comprise large and giant breeds. Scientists attribute this to the fact that large dogs age rapidly compared to their smaller counterparts due to the strain that their big bodies endure. Ultimately, this leads to them developing serious age-related conditions at an earlier age than smaller pups, impacting their overall longevity.
Moreover, research also reveals that the bodies of larger dogs often focus more on rapid body development and less on cell repair. Consequently, this contributes to increased cellular stress and reduced defenses against serious health conditions such as cancer. In other words, large dogs are more susceptible to an array of medical problems at a younger age than smaller pups.
Here’s some good news, though — what if we told you there’s something in the works to help you extend your dog’s life expectancy? And no, we’re not talking about cloning your dog.
A biotech firm in San Francisco is developing a first-of-its-kind lifespan drug for dogs to help our canine friends stick around much longer. The average lifespan of a dog is around 10-13 years, which means this drug will play a big role in extending our canine friends’ longevity.
While the promise of a dog lifespan drug is certainly tantalizing, it’s essential that you still play your part in helping your furry friend achieve a longer life expectancy. This includes prioritizing a healthy diet, ensuring they exercise regularly, and going for veterinarian check-ups often.
With that in mind, here are 12 dog breeds with the shortest lifespans that you’ll want to cherish every single minute with:
1. Bernese Mountain Dog
Big, powerful, stunning, and good-natured, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a safe bet when looking for the perfect family dog. With a Berner (as they’re affectionately nicknamed) by your side, you can be sure you’ll have a canine friend who will effortlessly turn your frown upside down.
Unfortunately, the Bernese Mountain dog — which can weigh up to 155 pounds and reach 27 inches in height — is among the many large breeds with a short life expectancy. Bernese Mountain Dogs have a lifespan of only 7-10 years.
This is mainly because the Berner is susceptible to health issues such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), cancer, and blood disorders at an early age.
2. Irish Wolfhound
Thinking of adding an Irish wolfhound to your family? We can’t blame you. Described as a true gentle giant despite its imposing stature, the Irish Wolfhound is a head turner.
This large, easy-going breed — native to Ireland — makes wonderful companions, even for households with kids. Irish Wolfhounds are one of the heaviest breeds — and officially the tallest dog breed — worldwide, with an average weight of up to 120 pounds and a height of up to 32 inches.
The not-so-great thing about the Irish wolfhound is their short lifespan, estimated to be only 6-8 years. They are more prone to health problems such as cancer (especially bone cancer), gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), heart diseases, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia.
3. Great Dane
If we had to describe the Great Dane in three words, we’d say “larger than life.” This sturdy, elegantly-built breed draws attention wherever it goes, and it can be hard to guess that it’s an absolute sweetheart on the inside.
Loved for its calm temperament, friendliness, and easy-to-train nature, the Great Dane — which can weigh up to 170 pounds and reach 30 inches in height — makes a terrific family dog. Unfortunately, the saying “the bigger the breed, the shorter the lifespan” applies to the Great Dane.
The lifespan of a Great Dane dog is 7-10 years. This is due to their increased susceptibility to health issues such as eye diseases, cardiovascular conditions, hip dysplasia, and autoimmune thyroiditis.
4. Leonberger
Leonbergers, popularly referred to as Leos, are the best of both worlds: powerful and intimidating (we see you, intruders) on one hand, yet sweet, loving, and gentle on the other. This giant working breed — admired for its somewhat lion-like appearance — possesses qualities that a household with a soft spot for giant breeds will cherish.
Leonbergers can weigh up to 170 pounds and reach 31 inches in height. Their lifespan is relatively short, estimated to be nine years only. Leonbergers are predisposed to conditions such as bone cancer, hip and bone dysplasia, eye problems, and gastric dilatation-volvulus.
5. Newfoundland
Admired for their exceptional swimming and lifesaving skills, Newfoundlands are among the world’s most loveable giant dog breeds. They are naturally protective and often form strong bonds with their humans, including children.
Despite their massive size, Newfoundlands are incredibly sweet and gentle, making them a fantastic addition to family households. This powerful working dog can weigh up to 150 pounds and grow to 28 inches tall.
Unfortunately, Newfies aren’t lucky when it comes to life expectancy. The Newfoundland dog’s lifespan is only 9-10 years. This is because they are predisposed to serious conditions such as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), bone cancer, dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia.
6. Saint Bernard
Staring at a Saint Bernard often feels like looking at a huge stuffed bear come to life. With its friendly demeanor, cuddly looks, and eagerness to please, it’s easy to see why the St. Bernard is among the most popular large breeds.
Moreover, St. Bernards makes amazing guard dogs owing to their intelligence, high alertness levels, intimidating On average, Saint Bernard can weigh up to 180 pounds and reach heights of 32 inches.
Typically, the lifespan of a Saint Bernard dog is 8-10 years. This loving, devoted breed often develops serious conditions such as heart issues, gastric dilatation-volvulus, eye abnormalities, bone cancer, and hip dysplasia at an early age, hence their short life expectancy.
7. Dogue de Bordeaux
Also known as French Mastiff or Bordeaux Mastiff, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a powerful Mastiff-type breed originating from France. This giant, muscular breed has a pretty laid-back personality and normally develops a strong attachment to its loved ones.
The Dogue de Bordeaux is never afraid to express its disapproval of unfamiliar faces, making them excellent guard dogs. Dogue de Bordeaux can weigh up to 110 pounds and grow as tall as 27 inches high. Sadly, they are among the giant breeds with the shortest life expectancy.
The lifespan of a Dogue de Bordeaux is 5-8 years. Dogue de Bordeauxs are highly susceptible to life-threatening conditions such as cancers, heart and orthopedic issues, gastric dilation volvulus, eye abnormalities, cardiovascular diseases, brachycephalic airway syndrome, and hip and elbow dysplasia.
8. Scottish Deerhound
Described as a loyal, extremely affectionate, people-loving dog that prefers to be around its human family more than anything, the Scottish Deerhound is an excellent family dog.
Despite their rugged appearance and immense size, Scottish Deerhounds are “big softies” with so much love to give — even to strangers.
Scottish Deerhounds can weigh up to 110 pounds and grow over 30 inches in height. Sadly, their average lifespan is estimated to be 8-11 years. Scottish Deerhounds are susceptible to significant health conditions such as heart diseases, cancers, and Musculoskeletal problems,
9. Rottweiler
Originally bred to drive and protect livestock, the Rottweiler is well known for its strength and muscular breed. Beyond their imposing looks, Rottweilers are playful, affectionate, and great with kids. It’s easy to see why the Rottweiler is ranked one of the most popular breeds in the U.S.
Typically, Rotties can weigh up to 135 pounds and reach 27 inches in height. The Rottweiler dog’s lifespan is a mere 9-10 years, and this is because of the wide range of health conditions they’re susceptible to at an early age. These conditions include hip dysplasia, heart disease, elbow dysplasia, cancer, eye diseases, and osteochondritis dissecans (OCD).
10. Bull Mastiff
The Bull Mastiff — a cross between the Bulldog and Mastiff breed — is not only big in size but also in personality. With a fairly short muzzle that’s as dark as a moonless night, Bull Mastiffs are captivating at first glance. They are fearless, devoted, and often eager to please their loved ones.
Bull Mastiffs typically reach weights up to 130 pounds and can grow to 27 inches in height. Unfortunately, the lifespan of a Bull Mastiff is only 7-9 years. This loving breed is predisposed to serious medical conditions such as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and hypothyroidism.
11. Mastiff
The Mastiff is a heavy-boned, dignified breed that fiercely loves and protects those it holds dear. Mastiffs are gentle and loving companions and can be quite aloof with strangers. On average, they weigh more than 200 pounds and grow up to 30 inches tall.
The average lifespan of Mastiff dogs is only 6-10 years due to their susceptibility to a handful of serious conditions, among them eye abnormalities, hypothyroidism, gastric dilation volvulus (GDV), heart diseases, and hip and elbow dysplasia. Other Mastiff breeds, like the Neapolitan Mastiff, also have a shorter lifespan, estimated to be 7-9 years.
12. English Bulldog
Often easily identified by its pushed-in nose and wrinkled face, the English bulldog is a loveable, medium-sized breed that never shies away from showing its quirky side.
Unfortunately, English Bulldogs — which can weigh up to 50 pounds and reach 15 inches in height — only enjoy an average life expectancy of 8-10 years. This flat-faced breed is prone to various health problems, among them brachycephalic airway syndrome, heart diseases, eye disorders, and degenerative joint disease.
Average Lifespan of Breeds
- What is the average lifespan of a Boxer dog?
- The average lifespan of a Boxer dog typically ranges from 10 to 12 years. Regular veterinary care and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial for their longevity.
- How long do Alsation dogs (German Shepherds) usually live?
- Alsation dogs, commonly known as German Shepherds, have a lifespan of about 9 to 13 years. Their longevity can be influenced by genetic factors and lifestyle.
- What is the average lifespan of a domestic dog?
- The average lifespan of domestic dogs varies by breed, but generally, dogs live about 10 to 13 years. Smaller breeds often live longer than larger breeds.
- How long do Prairie dogs live?
- Prairie dogs, which are not domestic dogs but rodents, typically live around 3 to 5 years in the wild and can live longer in captivity.
- What is the lifespan of Border Collie dogs?
- Border Collies are known for their longevity and can live approximately 12 to 15 years, especially with proper care and regular exercise.
- What is the typical lifespan of Newfoundland dogs?
- Newfoundland dogs generally have a lifespan of about 8 to 10 years. They are large breeds, and like many larger dogs, they tend to have shorter lifespans.
- How long do Rottweilers typically live?
- Rottweilers usually live around 8 to 10 years. Proper health management and regular vet visits can help address common health issues.
- What is the average lifespan of a dog overall?
- The average lifespan of a dog depends on its breed, size, and overall health, but typically, it’s around 10 to 13 years.
- How long do Boston Terrier dogs live?
- Boston Terriers typically live about 11 to 13 years. Regular health check-ups are vital to manage common breed-specific issues.
- What is the lifespan of Australian Cattle dogs?
- Australian Cattle dogs are known for their robust health and usually live between 12 to 15 years.
- How long do Poodle dogs generally live?
- Poodles have a long lifespan compared to other breeds, typically living 13 to 17 years.
- What is the lifespan of Labrador Retriever dogs?
- Labrador Retrievers generally live about 10 to 12 years. They benefit significantly from regular exercise and a healthy diet.
- What is the average lifespan of Mastiff dogs?
- Mastiffs, being a larger breed, have a shorter lifespan, typically 6 to 10 years.
- How long do Doberman dogs live?
- Doberman Pinschers typically live about 10 to 13 years, with attentive care and regular health screenings.
- What is the lifespan of Catahoula Leopard dogs?
- Catahoula Leopard dogs usually live around 10 to 14 years, depending on their health and lifestyle.
- Which dog breeds have the longest lifespans?
- Smaller breeds such as Chihuahuas often have the longest lifespans, typically ranging from 14 to 16 years.
- What is the typical lifespan of a Saint Bernard dog?
- Saint Bernard dogs have a relatively short lifespan, typically 8 to 10 years, due to their large size.
- How long do Jack Russell dogs live?
- Jack Russell Terriers are known for their energy and robust health, typically living 13 to 16 years.