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Studies suggest that the lifespan of a dog differs with size and breed. Several other factors affect the lifespan of a dog and how long a dog lives. You might have asked, “how long do dogs live?” While there is no definite answer to this question, there are averages we can go by.
Average Lifespan Of A Dog
A dog lives for 10-13 years, depending on its breed and size. Domesticated dogs have a diverse appearances, build, and sizes. We can safely conclude that a Great Dane’s lifespan will significantly differ from a pug’s lifespan. Smaller dog breeds generally live longer than their larger counterparts, and the reason behind this is unknown. Genetics plays a big role in the lifespan of dogs. Purebred dogs can get specific diseases as they are bred with dogs with considerably similar genes. On the other hand, mixed-breed dogs are less prone to the same diseases, increasing their lifespan. Dogs like the English Bulldog can get heatstroke quickly and have other respiratory issues because they have smaller trachea.
Small Dogs Lifespan
The average lifespan for smaller-breed dogs is 10-15 years. However, small-breed dogs are prone to degenerative heart disease and adrenal, kidney, and liver diseases. Dental diseases are also common in smaller dogs, complicating other illnesses.
Let’s look at the lifespan of a few smaller dog breeds.
- Parson Russell Terrier: 13-15 years
- Yorkshire Terrier: 11-15 years
- Pomeranian: 12-16 years
Medium-sized dogs generally live for 10-13 years. However, a medium-sized dog lived up to 29 years. It was an Australian Cattle Dog called Bluey and is the oldest dog recorded. Diseases in medium-sized dogs vary with breed. For instance, Bulldogs have issues because of their snub-noses. However, Australian Shephard can have fewer genetic diseases and might live up to 15 years or more.
Let’s look at the lifespan of a few medium-sized dog breeds.
- Boxer: 10-12 years
- Cocker Spaniel: 10-14 years
- French Bulldog: 10-12 years
Large Dogs Lifespan
While the breed of the larger dog plays a role in how long they live, the average lifespan of a large dog is 9-12 years. Larger dogs are prone to getting cancer or arthritis. Golden Retriever is particularly prone to getting cancer.
Let’s look at the lifespan of a few large dog breeds.
- Belgian Malinois: 14-16 years
- Rottweiler: 9-10 years
Giant Dogs Lifespan
Giant dogs have the least years to live, with 8-10 years. The truth is that you can call a six-year-old Great Dane a senior pet. It is because of the wear and tears it experiences in its joints. It is more prone to neurologic diseases and bone cancers than smaller dogs.
Let’s look at the lifespan of a few giant dog breeds.
- Saint Bernard: 8-10 years
- Irish Wolfhound: 6-8 years
- Newfoundland: 9-10 years
