Devotion is one of the greatest gifts dogs give us. Their loyalty, love, and unwavering companionship enrich our lives in countless ways—but sadly, some of the most devoted breeds are also among those with shorter lifespans.
These dogs pour a lifetime of affection into fewer years, reminding us that love isn’t measured in time but in the moments we share with them.
Sadly, large and giant breeds often face health challenges like bloat and bone cancer, shortening their lives. Yet through attentive care—balanced meals, regular exercise, and consistent vet checkups—owners can help these loyal companions live healthier, happier lives, ensuring their devotion is honored in every stage of life.
Let’s explore faithful dog breeds with shorter lifespans and learn how to cherish every moment with your furry friend.
Devoted Dog Breeds With Shorter Lifespans
1. Bulldog
Also known as the English Bulldog, this iconic breed is instantly recognizable for its wrinkled face, drooping jowls, and stocky build. According to the American Kennel Club, the Bulldog is a sturdy, low-built, and muscular breed known for its kind yet courageous nature.
Their devotion runs deep—Bulldogs are happiest when close to their humans, often following them from room to room and curling up beside them whenever possible.
They show love through quiet companionship rather than boundless energy, preferring to stay near rather than roam far. This steadfast loyalty makes their shorter lifespan, typically around 8 to 10 years, all the more bittersweet.
Because of their brachycephalic structure (short, broad skull), Bulldogs may face breathing and heat-related issues, requiring attentive care from devoted owners. Regular vet visits and a cool environment help them live more comfortably.
A fascinating fact: Bulldogs were once fierce bull-fighting dogs, but careful breeding transformed them into the gentle, loving family companions that symbolize courage and devotion today.
2. Saint Bernard
Also known as the gentle giant of the Alps, the Saint Bernard is one of the most iconic large breeds in the world. According to PetMD, Saint Bernards are a giant dog breed first trained by monks in the 1600s to locate and rescue individuals trapped beneath avalanches in the Swiss Alps.
Their sheer size and loving heart make them one of the most devoted dog breeds, but sadly, that big heart can also be their greatest vulnerability. Prone to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)—a condition that weakens the heart muscle—Saint Bernards often face shorter lifespans of just 8 to 10 years.
Despite this, their affection and loyalty shine brighter than their years. They form powerful emotional bonds with families and are especially gentle with children, embodying patience and protection in equal measure.
A fascinating fact: While they’re often depicted carrying a small brandy barrel around their necks in rescue stories, that detail is purely legend—their real gift has always been their courage and compassion in saving lives.
3. Great Dane
Also known as the “Apollo of Dogs,” the Great Dane is a majestic giant admired for its towering stature and gentle heart. According to WebMD, the Great Dane is a well-known German breed admired for its impressive and imposing size.
Their short, sleek coats come in striking patterns, with the black-and-white harlequin being one of the most iconic. Despite their size, Great Danes are affectionate, calm, and loyal companions who thrive on human connection.
However, with their impressive build comes a shorter lifespan, averaging just seven to ten years. One of their greatest health risks is bloat, a life-threatening condition where the stomach twists, cutting off blood flow to vital organs.
Owners should practice preventive feeding routines—smaller, more frequent meals and rest before and after eating—to help reduce this risk.
Early socialization and consistent training are crucial for such a large, strong breed. Great Danes are intelligent and responsive, but require firm, gentle guidance to ensure good manners and safe interactions.
A remarkable fact: When standing on their hind legs, Great Danes can tower over most people—a visual testament to their grandeur and nickname as the “Apollo” among dogs.
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
Affectionately called the “Berner,” the Bernese Mountain Dog is a majestic working breed hailing from the snowy farmlands of Switzerland. Known for their distinctive tricolor coats—a blend of jet black, rust, and white—and gentle expressions, these gentle giants embody both power and tenderness.
Their loyalty runs deep, often forming unbreakable attachments with one special family member. Berners live to please, whether herding, guarding, or simply resting at their owner’s side.
Despite their size, they carry a soft, loving temperament, especially toward children and other pets, making them one of the most devoted dog breeds.
Sadly, their devotion is matched by a short lifespan, averaging six to ten years. Berners are particularly prone to cancer, bloat, and heart conditions, challenges that have grown more common due to modern breeding practices.
A touching fact: Berners’ gentle, loyal hearts often leave such a strong imprint on their families that many owners, despite the heartbreak of their short lives, choose to welcome another Berner again—a testament to the breed’s enduring love and spirit.
5. Bullmastiff
Also known as the Gamekeeper’s Night Dog, the Bullmastiff is a powerful yet affectionate giant created from a cross between the Bulldog and Mastiff.
As one of the large devoted breeds, the Bullmastiff’s shorter lifespan is tied to its size and physiology. Larger bodies require more energy and place greater strain on organs like the heart, which can lead to conditions such as bloat, cancer, and heart disease.
Their deep chest and dense musculature also increase the risk of circulatory and joint issues as they age.
Despite these challenges, Bullmastiffs remain steadfast companions. Their devotion and gentle temperament make them ideal family protectors who bond deeply with their owners. Early socialization and consistent care are key to maintaining their health and emotional balance.
A fascinating fact: Bullmastiffs were once trained to silently track and pin down poachers at night—never biting, only restraining—showcasing their rare mix of power, intelligence, and control.
6. Irish Wolfhound
Also known as the gentle giant of Ireland, the Irish Wolfhound is the tallest of all dog breeds. Despite their imposing stature, these hounds are calm, affectionate, and deeply loyal—true companions with hearts as big as their frames.
Caring for an Irish Wolfhound requires both space and dedication. Their shorter lifespan means every moment counts, and attentive health care is key.
Regular vet visits, proper nutrition, and gentle exercise help support their massive frame while reducing strain on joints and the risk of conditions like bloat or heart disease.
Because they are prone to bone cancer and blood-clotting disorders, early detection and preventive care are essential. A balanced diet rich in quality protein and controlled growth during puppyhood can help protect their long-term health.
A fascinating fact: Though once fierce hunters capable of taking down wolves, today’s Irish Wolfhounds are known for their serenity—their sheer presence alone is often enough to deter intruders.
7. Dogue de bordeaux
Also known as the French Mastiff, the Dogue de Bordeaux is one of the oldest and most powerful dog breeds from France—its lineage dating back to a time before the country itself existed.
Recognized for its massive, wrinkled head and deep, soulful eyes, this mastiff-type guardian combines imposing strength with surprising tenderness.
Though their average lifespan ranges from five to eight years, every year with a Dogue de Bordeaux feels deeply rewarding.
Their devotion to family is unmatched—they’re affectionate, gentle giants who thrive on companionship and purpose. Despite their muscular build, these dogs form emotional bonds that run deep, offering steady comfort and loyalty.
Their shorter lifespan often stems from health challenges such as heart and breathing issues, common in brachycephalic breeds. Yet their resilience and loving nature remind owners to cherish every moment.
A fascinating fact: The Dogue de Bordeaux holds the record for having one of the largest heads in the canine world, a feature that perfectly matches its grand, protective heart.
Conclusion
Devotion often comes in big, furry packages—and many of the most loyal companions are large and giant breeds with hearts as grand as their size. Sadly, these large dogs tend to have a relatively short lifespan, with an average life expectancy much lower than other breeds.
Conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and other serious health conditions often limit their years, yet their love and loyalty fill a lifetime’s worth of memories. The Neapolitan Mastiff, for instance, is known for its calm temperament and unwavering devotion, even though it faces common health issues associated with its massive build.
Despite these challenges, these dogs form strong bonds with their families, offering companionship, protection, and endless affection. With proper care, nutrition, and regular vet visits, owners can help their furry friend enjoy a healthy life for as long as possible. Whether a gentle farm dog or a guardian with a calm demeanor, their loyalty proves that even a shorter life can leave an everlasting paw print.
