Many dog parents are wondering what the life expectancy of their furry friend is. How long do dogs actually live? As with many things in life, the answer is, it depends.
How Long do Dogs Usually Live?
When adopting a dog, we inevitably think about its life expectancy, because logically we want our best friends to accompany us for many years. However, death is part of the life cycle of all animals, and we must enjoy every moment with our partner. Next, we will see what needs to be done to estimate how long a dog lives.
The goal of predicting how long a dog lives is as complex as calculating its approximate age in human years. For this, you must consider some variables inherent to your own organism, such as your genetic inheritance, lineage, race, and size.
The calculation of the life expectancy of a dog also needs to take into account its quality of life. The care, the environment, the nutrition, and the preventive medicine that we offer to our furry have a direct impact on their longevity.
Also, since each dog is a unique being, its organism can have very special characteristics. Therefore, some dogs can exceed all expectations regarding their longevity.
What is the Usual Lifespan of a Dog?
A dog can live 11 years on average. But the life expectancy of dogs varies, sometimes several years, depending on their breed.
Here is a list of some of the best-known dog breeds and their life expectancy. Remember that these tables contain rough estimates, as many other factors influence dogs’ life expectancy. Therefore, you should not take these approaches as exact.
Lifespan of popular dog breeds
| Breed | Expectancy (in years) |
| Labrador Retriever | 12,6 |
| German Shepherd | 10,3 |
| Irish Setter | 11,8 |
| Jack Russell Terrier | 13,6 |
| Lurcher | 12,6 |
| Great Dane | 8,4 |
| Springer Spaniel | 13 |
| Border Collie | 13 |
| Boxer | 10,4 |
| Cavalier King Charles | 10,7 |
| Dachshund | 12,2 |
| Golden Retriever | 12 |
| Chihuahua | 15 |
| Rottweiler | 9,8 |
| West Highland White Terrier | 12,8 |
| Yorkshire Terrier | 12,8 |
| Beagle | 13,3 |
Factors Influencing the Lifespan of your Dog
As in humans, hygiene of life is essential for the life expectancy of the dog. The comfort and well-being of the animal greatly contribute to lengthening the duration of it. This depends on several factors:
A Healthy, Balanced and Quality Diet
An animal fed with a diet adapted to its age, breed, and weight, which is of high quality and not purchased in supermarkets, well balanced and well-dosed, will tend to be less exposed to various disorders, including overweight and diabetes which lead to other pathologies. His life expectancy will be extended from one to five years on average.
Regular Physical Activity
not all dogs have the same physical activity needs. Some require intense exercise every day while others are content with a short daily walk. Anyway, respecting this need is essential for the well-being of the animal because physical activity prevents overweight and many diseases, especially cardiovascular.
Quality Care
A well-groomed animal will live longer on average. It is therefore recommended to prevent, that is to say, to protect your animal well by an up-to-date annual vaccination and the regular administration of antiparasitics. In the case of symptoms, it is important to consult the veterinarian and carry out the necessary care for its recovery as soon as possible.
Sterilization and Castration
You should know that sterilizing or castrating your dog increases its life expectancy because this prevents the future development of many cancers. In addition, the absence of heat and rut reduces the risk of accidents with dogs, which tend to flee to breed.
Weight
A high body condition score causes a large number of diseases. Your dog gets lazy and enjoys walking and playing less – a vicious circle! The result is inflammation in the joints, called arthritis, and many other internal diseases such as diabetes.
Read more about the influence of weight on your dog’s lifespan.
Join My Facebook Group
Meet like-minded dog owners who are dedicated to helping their dogs feel better and live longer.
Learn more about Canine Acupressure and Arthritis.
Signs of Ageing in Dogs
It is important to respect the different phases of a dog’s life to better support him through them.
Depending on the breed, a dog is considered a senior between 7 and 10 years old, but it depends on the individual.
Here are the classic signs of an aging dog:
- His coat becomes dull and may start to turn gray.
- The animal is less valiant, it is less energetic, less demanding in outings and activities, and it gets tired more quickly with little effort.
- He can lose weight or, on the contrary, gain it.
- He moves more difficult and slower.
- Some doggies change their behavior.
These signs are normal, and there is nothing you can do about them. However, aging can also lead to complications such as respiratory, heart, or bone disorders for which you can consult.
What to do to Keep Your Aging Dog Fit?
Regular veterinary check-ups including dental examinations are the most important things you can do. Keep all the vaccinations up to date and have a yearly blood check done.
Your vet will help you with all your pet’s needs. The diet may have to be changed, modifications may have to be made around your house and preventive treatment can be taken into consideration.
Recommended Posts on Ageing Dogs:
- Arthritis in Dogs. Signs, Diagnosis, and Therapy.
- How old is my Dog in Human Years?
- Pressure Points for you Dog with Osteoarthritis
Sharing is Caring
Did you like this post? Help me to help even more people keeping their loved dogs fit and healthy! Share this article and join our Facebook Group for more information.
– Felix