There are different factors that determine the lifespan of a dog. They include care, size, the breeding method, as well as spaying and neutering. On average, the life span of a dog is around 10 to 13 years.

 

Introduction

 

First of all, being a dog owner is one of those responsibilities that come with unparalleled happiness and satisfaction. Because dogs give us the much-needed companionship, love, and security that are not easy to find. At one point in every dog owner’s life with their furry friends, they ask themselves how long their dogs will stick around. Probably many people don’t understand that different dog breeds have different lifespans. Every breed has an average number of years they are expected to live. Most breeds share a common lifespan that is approximately ten to thirteen years. Unlike other animals where larger animals tend to live longer than their smaller counterparts, dogs are different. Small breeds live longer than big ones. Some breeds live longer than others. Inbreeding reduces a dog’s lifespan whereas crossbreeding increases lifespan.

Past records show that some breeds in the past lived for over twenty years. The Australian Cattle Dog is famous for being credited as the breed with the longest life expectancy. To be precise, the longest living dog recorded holding the Guinness title happens to be an Australian Cattle Dog. The dog was called Bluey and lived for 29 years and five months (1910-1939). Breeds which live for longer periods include Chihuahua (15-20 years), Pomeranian (12-16 years), and Dachshund (12-15 years). Those with a shorter average lifespan include the Great Dane (6-8 years) and French Mastiff (5-8 years). I will discuss some of the popular breeds below.

 

1. Labrador Retriever

 

Originally from Newfoundland, this retriever popularly known as Lab has a lifespan of 12-13 years. They are friendly both to adults and small children which make them safe around children. Being sociable, athletic and playful, they act as guides for blind people and as therapy dogs in hospitals.

 

2. German Shepherd Dog

 

Fantastic hunting dogs with a large-breed lifespan of 9-13 years. They are intelligent and easy to train making them suitable for roles such as rescuing and guarding. They are originally from Germany.

 

3. Golden Retriever

 

This breed with an excellent temperament lives for an average of 10-12 years. One distinguishing feature about them is that they have a water-repellent double coat and love being in and around water. Their big size makes them incredible hunting and rescue dogs.

 

4. English Bulldog

 

Originally used as fighting dogs due to their violent and brave nature, the Bull dog lives for an average of 8-12 years. After dog fighting had become illegal, breeding was done to discard their harsh and wild lifestyles and come up with delightful pets with decent natured personality.

 

5. Beagle

 

Popularly considered to be the best breeds around children, beagles live for around 12-15 years. They are active and playful, and submissive in nature. Originally from England, Beagles are adorable curious and welcoming. Do not be surprised when if wag their tails in excitement when they see you in the evening after a long day.

 

6. Poodle

 

A favorite small breed loved by many dog owners because they are smarter and easy to train. They have a lifespan of 12-15 years. They come in an array of colors. Initially used as water retrieving dogs in Germany.

 

7. Shetland Sheepdog

 

Shetland sheepdog originally came from the Shetlands Islands in Scotland. They live for 12-13 years. Shetland sheepdogs are very popular in Canada and European countries because they are responsive, trustworthy and very friendly. They are also very submissive and intelligent.

 

8. Havanese Dog

 

This popular family pet has an average lifespan of 14-16 years. They thrive well even in modern and urban families because they are outgoing and easily trainable.

 

9. Boxer Dog

 

This strong and alert breed lives for 9-10 years. They have well-developed muscles meaning that they require regular exercising. Due to these traits, they are used as guard dogs but also act as good companions due to their outstanding temperament.

 

10. Yorkshire Terrier

 

Yorkshire terrier is one of the most lovable dog breeds due to their small size, curious nature and decent character. They have a relatively long lifespan of 12-15 years. By getting one, you get the many years of joy that associated with them.

 

11. French Bulldog

 

The French Bull Dog is known to be an amusing and lively breed that lives 10-12 years. They have a to-die-for personality and are very sensitive emotionally.

 

12. Rottweiler

 

The average Rottweiler lives for 8-10 years. They are very active with high energy levels; meaning owners need to a have a secure and large fenced yard. They are regarded to be an expensive breed to own as reported by Pet Premium Pet Health Insurance.

 

13. Pointer (Germany Shorthaired)

 

They brilliant hunters live for an average of 12-14 years. This medium-sized breed is energetic and has high endurance when compared to other kinds.

 

14. Dachshunds

 

These playful and lively dogs boast a lifespan of 12-15 years. Owning a Dachshund will guarantee you a beautiful long experience full of adventure. They strong sense of smell makes them the perfect hunting companions. One Chanel is said to have lived for 21 years; maybe your Dachshunds will surpass this record!

 

15. Bernese Mountain Dog

 

This incredible breed has a lifespan of 7-8 years. They are popular for their high intelligence, affection, loyalty and excellent temperament. Several health problems mostly related to inbreeding greatly reduces their lifespan.

16. Pit Bull (American Staffordshire terrier)

 

This popular family companion usually referred to as just Pit Bull lives for an average of 12-16 years. They are loyal and loving with a strong desire to please. They also need a lot of training and exercise to avoid destructive behavior.

 

Conclusion

 

It is, however, worth noting that how you take care of your dog will determine individual dog life expectancy. In conclusion, dog care is mostly in the form of proper and nutritious diet, regular exercises, healthy living conditions and dental care. Converting dog years into human years is a preferred way of evaluating a dog’s longevity. By understanding dog years, you can follow up the crucial stages in your dog’s life from young age to adulthood. The simple fact that human beings live longer than dogs, means that dog owners have a difficult time when saying goodbye. A loss by death is inevitable, and it is wise to prepare for it. It may not change the inevitable, but this will make you appreciate your dog while they are still alive, by making the most out of the time you spend together.