Do you know that some of the most fluffy, affectionate, and loyal dogs have a limited lifespan, often leading to an early death? Yep! These gentle giants make unforgettable companions for us humans, but sadly, our time with them can be heartbreakingly brief.
But why do these breeds live shorter lives than other dogs? AVMA states that overweight dogs tend to live up to 2.5 years less, on average, than dogs that stay at a healthy weight. In other words, the bigger the dog, the shorter the time we usually get with them. However, this is not a direct 1:1 relationship. It could also be due to genetics or predisposed health issues, such as heart rate or lifestyle factors.
Nonetheless, some breeds are known for their tragically short time on earth, and we are going to explore seven such breeds with the shortest life expectancy. Still, they are dear to our hearts, and we won’t recommend not owning them.
Extremely Short-Lived Dog Breeds
It is hard to imagine parting from a dear companion, such as a dog, or seeing them in pain. However, keeping yourself updated on the most popular dog breeds with short lifespans is essential for two reasons: you can prepare yourself beforehand, or you can take care of your dog to help prevent common health concerns that take them away too soon.
Here are seven such breeds. Keep on reading.
1. Bernese Mountain Dog
This giant dog, originally from the scenic valleys of Switzerland, is the most gentle breed you will ever meet, with deep chests that add to their majestic appearance. They are known for their calm temperament and good nature, and a distinct, dense double fur coat and a bushy tail. The Bernese mountain dogs love their owners for two things: cuddles and affection.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), your favorite dog has an average lifespan of 7-10 years. Unfortunately, these gentle animals are prone to sicknesses such as bone cancer, immune system challenges, heart problems, and hip and elbow dysplasia etc. Their large size also contributes to their health problems.
Despite this short time, these canine companions are very affectionate, and they become deeply bonded with their family, especially if there are any children around. You need to help them with moderate exercise and take them to outdoor play, as they thrive in colder climates.
Don’t be sad too soon! With regular veterinary check-ups and proper care, your Berner can enjoy the best quality of life possible.
2. Cane CorsoÂ
Cane Corso is a working dog breed that dates back to the Roman Empire, where they were used for herding cattle and guard duty, so they are kind of a royal dog. They have an intense and muscular appearance, and despite that, they can be very gentle and loving. However, they can handle up to 120 pounds, so don’t leave children unsupervised with them.
These dogs are often kept by prospective owners who love their intelligence, loyalty, and intense guarding instincts. Unfortunately, AKC mentions that these large breeds have an average lifespan of 9-12 years, which may sound like you have enough time, but their health problems could start as early as the sixth year of life.
The health issues that affect Cane Corso include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, obesity, joint problems, heart disease, eye problems, etc. For this reason, they need constant training, exercise, and veterinary care to monitor their health. As with other dogs, these puppies also need regular trips to a veterinarian to stay in shape for the years they live on this earth.
To keep them healthy, happy, and thriving, you can train your dog to stay in the yard and play around in front of you.
3. Saint Bernard
These are the world’s most kept pets. Known for their extremely easy nature, these dogs have wrinkled brows, huge, fluffy coats, and a very calm nature. Saint Bernards are iconic rescue dogs originally from the Swiss Alps, and their cool demeanor makes them a great family dog. The important point to note about these dogs is that they may have separation anxiety and might engage in behavior like mindless digging if left alone. So, be mindful!
Despite their huge size, they are relatively easier-going than certain breeds and do not need too much exercise. They have moderate energy levels but still accompany you to a hike if you offer. Mind you, they have a thick coat, so get ready to do some regular grooming.
However, PetMD notes that this dog’s lifespan is only 8-10 years. They are typically healthy but may get plagued by bone cancer, hip dysplasia, and lymphoma. For longevity, the best care is a must, and your dog’s vet can help with general tips on grooming, training, skincare, fun activities with toys, and a balanced diet for your huge pup.
4. Irish wolfhound
Hailing from Ireland and long before that, ancient Rome, these are the tallest dog breeds. Females may be a bit smaller, but they are still much more bulky than other dogs. With their regal stance and calm temperament, these furry friends are often called ‘gentle souls’ by their loving owners. They crave human company and are comfortable with everyone, including children and their owners’ social club.
Unfortunately, this breed may live up to only 6 to 8 years, because they are too big for their own good. Like many giant breeds, they are prone to dilated cardiomyopathy and bone cancer, which are leading causes of health complications.
Wolfhounds can also experience sudden bloat, which is a life-threatening condition, and death can occur instantly. That’s why owners should be pretty careful about the health of a large breed like an Irish wolfhound.
If you are sure about keeping an Irish wolfhound, you need to have a proper veterinary care schedule for them, as they are at a high risk of dying early due to various health problems.
5. NewfoundlandÂ
These dogs are hands-down one of the heaviest and largest dog breeds, as their weight may tip the scale up to 150 pounds. These are water-loving, very loyal pups, and usually adored for their sweet demeanor, and have earned a reputation for being a nanny dog for the kids. They are originally from Canada, and that heavy, heavy fur helps with the extreme cold.
Their median lifespan is limited between 9 to 10 years. Due to their massive size and build, they are great swimmers and natural lifesavers. However, this same quality makes them susceptible to several health issues. The Newfies commonly suffer from subvalvular aortic stenosis, a deadly heart defect. They are also prone to bone cancer and hip dysplasia.
Due to a short lifespan and propensity towards heart diseases, pet parents should take Newfies for early heart screening and monitoring. It may help extend their well-being.
6. Great Dane
Great Danes are skinny and tall dogs, especially when they stand on their hind legs. But don’t be deceived by their stature, as they are known to have an incredibly sweet nature and friendlier-than-thou attitude.
Unfortunately, these big dogs are unable to live past the age of 10 years, with only a few lucky ones reaching 12 years. Their owners usually like to call them big, brave, and beautiful, and they have been nicknamed the “Apollo of the Dogs”.
Sadly, they cannot escape the shorter lifespans that plague most of the dog breeds. The health issues that are common in Great Danes are heart disease, bloat, hip dysplasia, happy tail syndrome, and wobbler syndrome etc.
Keeping them on a consistent diet and using raised food bowls may help their digestive problems. Their loving and goofy personality makes every moment with them count, so don’t forget to take them to the regular vet checks.
7- Rottweiler
Last but not least, the Rottweiler is a large and muscular dog breed that may come off as scary at first, but their cute and chummy personality makes them a total cuddle machine with their family. They are a working-class dog and have ties with the Neapolitan Mastiff from ancient Rome.
A Rottie is a very intelligent dog, and they may become easily bored with their routine, so it’s a must to take them out for daily walks (at least 60 minutes). Their mental stimulation is way too important for your own good, lest they start eating your furniture out of boredom.
They are one of the most popular breeds that you may find in every second US household, but unfortunately, they usually live up to 9-10 years, as they are an easy target for diseases like elbow dysplasia, obesity, bloat, Arthritis, and bone cancer etc.
Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for them. You need to see what kind of food your dog enjoys and make a proper diet plan for them, possibly choosing from one of the best pet food companies.
Saying Goodbye Too Soon!
Losing a dog is never easy, but when a beloved breed has a short lifespan, the loss feels even harder to go through. The intense love and loyalty they bring into our lives for even for a few years, can be worth the heartbreak. These short-lived dog breeds may not be with us long, but the impact the course of their lives stays with us forever.
No matter which dog you feel drawn to, be it a Scottish deerhound, an English bulldog, a Dogue De Bordeaux, or the dignified Irish Wolfhound, understanding their health needs and lifespan helps you make heartfelt but careful choices. And in their fleeting years, they will give you something truly timeless: unconditional love.
