Dog Breed<\/th>

Lifespan<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>

German Shepherd<\/td>

9 to 13 years<\/td><\/tr>

Labrador Retriever<\/td>

10 to 12 years<\/td><\/tr>

Great Dane<\/td>

8 to 10 years<\/td><\/tr>

Bernese Mountain Dog<\/td>

7 to 10 years<\/td><\/tr>

Giant Schnauzer<\/td>

10 to 12 years<\/td><\/tr>

Rottweiler<\/td>

10 to 12 years<\/td><\/tr>

Belgian Malinois<\/td>

14 to 16 years<\/td><\/tr>

St. Bernard<\/td>

10 to 12 years<\/td><\/tr>

Cane Corso <\/td>

10 to 12 years<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Dive Deeper:<\/strong>
20 Shortest Living Dog Breeds<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Genetics and Lifespan\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Size isn’t the only factor at play when considering how long a dog can live. Genes play a major role too. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A lot of illnesses are hereditary and can be passed down from a parent to a pup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some breeds are also predisposed to certain illnesses. An example is the Golden Retriever<\/a> breed, which is prone to cancer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For this reason, you must find a reputable dog breeder when considering any breed. This includes the small ones with a long lifespan<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reputable breeders will prove that the pup you’re getting doesn’t have any inheritable illness in its genes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Medical Conditions and Lifespan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Fewer things cut short a dog’s lifespan faster than illnesses and other issues requiring a vet visit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While many pet parents would love to have a dog that would live with no issues, that’s never the case. Even well-bred dogs can still suffer from illness or even an accident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Different medical issues can affect a dog’s life, but the major ones are usually cancer, trauma, infections, and illnesses (both inherited and uninherited).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cancer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Cancer is the major cause of death amongst large dogs, and they are more prone to developing cancer than small dog breeds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As we hinted above, the Golden Retriever is one breed known to be highly susceptible to cancer, and this has engendered a lot of research that we hope will produce positive results in the future. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To know if your dog has cancer, watch out for symptoms like lumps, rapid weight loss, swelling, and even lameness. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because these symptoms are similar to those of many other illnesses, take your dog to the vet once you notice any of them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Trauma<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Traumatic events can happen as an indoor accident, a hit-and-run, or even the outcome of a dog fight. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A lot of these traumatic events happen during the first few years of the dog’s life when it is more active. Working dogs are also more exposed and can easily get hurt. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can prevent these events by keeping your dog on a leash when outside, erecting a dog fence, and supervising them. Also, absolutely no fights!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Infections<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The rate of mortality due to infections has reduced, thanks to medical advances and the creation of vaccines, but they can still threaten your dog’s existence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Get your dog vaccinated as soon as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Illnesses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
We have covered inherited illnesses under the genetics section. Though they are not always fatal, they can hinder your dog’s wellbeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some of them can’t even be cured, further putting your dog’s longevity in jeopardy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Uninherited illnesses vary in their severity. A stomach upset may not kill your dog, but bloating will if you don’t act fast. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Obesity and Lifespan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Obesity is not a problem reserved only for humans, it is a dog health problem too. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to findings, an estimate of 25% to 30% of dogs are obese, and a good number of these dogs are found between the ages of 5 and 11.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is troubling because obesity is known to reduce a dog’s lifespan. As an expert put it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“being even moderately overweight can reduce a dog’s life expectancy by nearly two years compared to their leaner counterparts.”<\/p>VCA Animal Hospitals<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Obesity is a problem on its own, but what makes it worse is that it becomes a pathway for other illnesses to come in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some medical issues obesity can lead to are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Diabetes<\/li>
Pancreatitis<\/li>
Tracheal collapse<\/li>
Airway dysfunction<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The solution to this is obvious: Do not let your dog get overweight! <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
To achieve this, understand the dog breed you own and its predisposition to obesity. Some dogs love food and are more prone to piling pounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Low energy dogs get obese quickly too. Keep your dog on the right diet and exercise regularly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If your dog is already overweight, you can work with a vet or nutritionist to establish a weight-reduction plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Easy Tips To Increase Dog Lifespan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The longevity of your pet pooch is not in your control, but you have a part to play in giving it a better chance at getting to that level. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Commitment to your dog’s well-being is a decision every pet parent must take, and it is the first step to helping your dog live longer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Other tips for increasing your dog’s lifespan:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep your pooch on a healthy diet;<\/li>
Maintain optimum weight;<\/li>
Don’t neglect vaccinations and other preventive measures;<\/li>
Don’t neglect pet insurance as well;<\/li>
Study the health issues related to your preferred breed and their symptoms;<\/li>
Keep your environment as accident-free as possible;<\/li>
Take your dog for regular checkups.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Related Questions On Dog Life Expectancy<\/h2>\n\n\n
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Why do dogs only live 10 years?<\/h3>\n
\n\n
The minimum year for many dog breeds is 10 because it is estimated that by then the dog has lived a full life and is succumbing to nature. <\/p>\n
Dogs mature faster than humans, and at 6 years some of them can already be considered seniors.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Can a dog live 20 years?<\/h3>\n
\n\n
Generally, dogs don’t always get up to 20 years. One of the longest living dog breeds is the Chihuahua and it usually peaks at 18 years. <\/p>\n
That said, many dogs have surpassed estimates to get up to 20 years and even more. These are exceptions, however, not the main rule.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Do happy dogs live longer?<\/h3>\n
\n\n
Though not a set rule, a happy dog often lives longer than an abused and traumatized dog. <\/p>\n
This is because happiness has a positive effect on the dog’s immune system, similar to humans. Doing things your dog loves is good for its health.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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What determines how long a dog lives?<\/h3>\n
\n\n
Many factors can determine how long a dog lives. The breed is one factor, as well as the size. Genetics also has a role to play. Finally, the care you give makes a difference.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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What dog lived the longest?<\/h3>\n
\n\n
A lot of dog breeds have long lifespans, an example of which is the Chihuahua. <\/p>\n
That said, the longest-lived dog recorded is an Australian Cattle Dog named Bluey who lived up to 29 years.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Death is an inevitable part of life, both for humans and dogs. When we come to accept this sad reality, we can decide if it would be a major factor in our choice of breed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Small dog breeds<\/a> are more suitable for people who want to have a companion for a long time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Getting a healthy dog from a reputable breeder is also important, but don’t think this means your dog won’t face illnesses. Good medical care helps a lot. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Overall, make the most of the moments you have with your canine friend. You’d have those memories to hold onto when they go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
References & Notes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
“Senior Pets<\/a>,” AVMA.<\/li>
“Why Do Small Dogs Live Longer Than Large Dogs?<\/a>” American Kennel Club.<\/li>
“Obesity in Dogs<\/a>,” VCA Animal Hospitals.<\/li><\/ol>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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Infections<\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe rate of mortality due to infections has reduced, thanks to medical advances and the creation of vaccines, but they can still threaten your dog’s existence.<\/p>\n\n\n\nGet your dog vaccinated as soon as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Infections<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The rate of mortality due to infections has reduced, thanks to medical advances and the creation of vaccines, but they can still threaten your dog’s existence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Get your dog vaccinated as soon as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n