Don’t you think it would be wonderful if our dogs could live with us forever? That is unfortunately not possible. Their size and their breed type, which are the most important factors on life length, have a considerable impact on their longevity.
Sometimes, we have to face the facts no matter how hard they are on us. Take a look at the advice we have for you to extend your pet’s life. Also, you can find useful tips for your pet’s life quality.
The Impact Of Breed, Size, And Other Key Factors
Dr. Bethany Hsia, DVM, and co-founder of CodaPet, claims that some dogs live longer or shorter lives depending on a variety of factors, including breed, size, genetics, nutrition, living conditions, exercise, veterinary care, and general health.
A medium-sized purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo named Bobi, who resides in Portugal, is the longest-living canine in history. On May 11, 2023, he became 31 years old! In terms of human years, Bobi is currently about 139. Sadly, this amazing lifespan is not common.
Dog Breeds With The Longest Lifespans
Some dog breeds are renowned for lasting a long life, frequently well into their teens or even early 20s. The breeds of dogs with the longest lifespans are listed below:
- Chihuahua:14–16
- Shiba Inu: 13–16
- Pinscher miniature: 12–16 years
- Pomeranians: 12–16 years
- Australian Cattle Dogs: 12–16 years
- Shih Tzu: 10–18 years
Does Size Impact The Lifespan?
Dogs of smaller breeds often live between 10 and 15 years longer than those of larger kinds.
Why?
“Smaller dogs simply don’t burn through energy as quickly as larger dogs do, which means their body doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain their health,” explains Dr. Hsia. Additionally, larger breeds are more likely to experience heart disease and hip dysplasia as they age.
Another theory is that larger breeds may face greater difficulties with age-related health conditions common in dogs, such as incontinence and movement issues, leading to a decision for earlier euthanasia.
Similar to their size, medium dog breeds have an average life expectancy of 10 to 13 years.
Large breeds may rule the room with their commanding presence, but when it comes to longevity, they frequently get the short end of the stick. These majestic dogs often live between 8 and 12 years, packing a lifetime’s worth of adoration into a shorter time frame.
However, mixed-breed dogs can live longer than purebred dogs because they are less likely to inherit genetic health issues that are typical in some purebred lines, according to Dr. Hsia.
How To Increase Your Dog’s Lifespan
While a pet’s life longevity can be influenced by a variety of factors, including breed, genetics, and more, to name a few, we are mostly unable to add too much to their lifespan.
There are a number of things you can do to improve your furry dog’s chances of living a long, healthy life. The top suggestions from Dr. Hsia are listed below.
1. Give Your Dog A Healthy Diet
A dog’s general health depends on eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, just like humans. Feed your dog premium dog food that is suitable for their age, breed, and level of health.
Dog obesity can cause a variety of health issues, so be sure you’re feeding your dog the right serving sizes and keeping treats to no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake.
Also, certain types of food can help extend your dog’s lifespan.
2. Keeping Dogs Active Can Help Them Stay Healthy
A healthy diet plays a crucial role in extending a dog’s life. A healthy lifestyle for your dog must include physical activity. Regular exercise keeps their joints supple, promotes mental stimulation, and helps them maintain a healthy body weight.
3. Receive Regular Veterinarian Care
The early detection of potential health problems might be aided by routine checkups. Ascertain that your dog has received all necessary immunizations and prophylactic treatments for conditions including heartworm, fleas, and ticks.
Vets provide preventive care, such as vaccinations and routine checkups, which can help identify and address health issues early on.
4. Maintain Good Dental Hygiene
Dogs often suffer from dental disease, which, if left untreated, can result in major health issues like heart diseases.
Maintaining oral health can be facilitated by routine tooth brushing, giving dental chews, and receiving expert cleanings as required.
For a dog to be happy and healthy, generally, good dental health is essential.
5. Never Expose Your Dog To Chemicals
Be careful of products and substances such as specific foods, plants, and chemicals that can be harmful to pets. Keep these away from your dog.
The most important thing for dog owners to do is be aware of potential poisons.
Keep them out of the dog’s reach and get emergency medical help if the dog exhibits any symptoms of poisoning.
6. Provide Your Dog With Mental Exercise
For dogs, mental exercise is equally as crucial as physical activity. Your dog’s mind can be kept active with toys, puzzle feeders, training sessions, and social contacts.
A puzzle toy for pets is an interactive game that gives a challenge that a pet must complete in order to receive a reward, which is typically treats or other, smaller toys placed inside the puzzle.
Prioritizing a dog’s mental health is vital for promoting a longer and happier life.