Let’s try something fun! How many dog breeds can you name in one breath? It’s very likely you first thought of the common breeds like Labrador Retrievers and Chihuahuas; have you ever wondered how many dog breeds out there you haven’t even heard of?
Some dog lovers are fascinated by the idea of adopting rare dog breeds, but it’s important to know their health concerns or any potential genetic issues. The life expectancy of a breed is also something you should be aware of when considering adopting a dog.
If you’re all about uniqueness and want an uncommon doggo as your pet, but want to know which ones are unlikely to live longer, this article will guide you through 7 breeds.
Uncommon Dog Breeds and Their Shorter Lifespans
1. Spinone Italiano
Spinone Italiano is a breed with ancient Italian origins, and brings a whimsical, farm-life charm with its cute, scruffy appearance. Despite its sometimes stubborn nature, the Spinone Italiano is a pup with a docile and people-friendly nature.
According to AKC, this breed is muscular but more enduring than it is fast. With a life expectancy of 10-12 years, it can stay healthy if given a healthy diet (these pups can be fussy with their food).
They don’t need an insane amount of exercise; occasional hikes and play sessions within a fenced yard are enough to keep them in a good state. These lovable dogs enjoy sticking close to their pet parents and human families; leaving them alone for long periods of time isn’t a good idea.
This breed is prone to some health issues like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems. They should also get their ears checked every now and then.
2. Neapolitan Mastiff
Another Italian breed, the Neapolitan Mastiff are sturdy working dog with brachycephalic faces (flat faces). These gentle giants are known to be amazing family dogs due to their affectionate nature.
As one of the protective large breeds, they make good watchdogs and adapt well to a household with children.
While they will surely stay alert when there are strangers around, Neapolitan Mastiffs are loving dogs that love to curl up next to you, rather than bouncing around, playing. They’re an ancient breed that can be traced back to around 700 B.C., and to Alexander the Great, who is likely to have developed them.
Like many other big dogs, these pups have a short life span and live no more than 7-9 years. It’s important to watch out for their health-related problems; they can be quite lazy, so make sure they’re getting some daily exercise and play sessions.
They’re prone to some issues like elbow and hip dysplasia and arthritis, and watching their weight can help with these issues. Also, watch them in hot weather as they might face breathing difficulty.
3. Belgian Laekenois
Belgian Laekenois is a herding breed native to Belgium and is less common than Belgian Malinois and Tervuren. They’re energetic and determined dogs that live for 10-12 years and fiercely protect their homes and territories.
As smart and eager to please dogs, these pups are quite trainable with positive reinforcement. One of the most fascinating looking dogs in the dog world, Laekenois have a rather rough and shaggy coat that needs weekly brushing and bathing.
They’re generally a quite healthy breed, especially if bred by reputed breeders, but like all doggos, they’re prone to some issues like canine hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia.
As larger dogs, these pups need a lot of exercise daily and can’t thrive in a sedentary environment. They crave human companionship and can try to herd smaller dogs or kids to satiate their herding instincts, if they’re bored.
4. Presa Canario
Hailing from the Canary Islands of Spain, Presa Canario is a fiercely protective breed that is very suspicious of strangers. It has an average lifespan of 9-11 years and is prone to some health problems like joint problems, heart disease, epilepsy, and eye problems.
As protective dogs, Presa Canarios make great guard dogs, but can also be quite aggressive towards strangers, both humans and other dogs. They exhibit a gentle nature towards their own human families, though, despite being strong-willed at times.
Though these majestic pups are alert in nature, they are not heavy barkers, so if you hate noise, they can be your ideal pets.
They have worked in different roles with humans, from herding livestock to being supportive farm dogs; as trainable dogs, they can live well in any household as long as they’re getting enough physical activity.
5. American English Coonhound
American English Coonhound is a sight for sore eyes with its ticked coat and adorable face. It’s a well-muscled breed built to hunt, with a deep chest and a piercing gaze that sharply traces its target.
They have a calm demeanor otherwise, but a really high energy level that makes them a good choice for an active owner.
According to WebMD, these pups have a loud bark that can disturb owners; so if you’re a couch potato or mind noise, this might not be the best pet for you. They have a short, smooth coat that doesn’t require regular grooming; weekly brushing and bathing are enough.
Despite not being very playful, these pups get along well with their human owners, children, and even other pets. They’re generally a healthy breed, though prone to some common doggo diseases like bloating, cataracts, and other eye issues. They sadly live no longer than 11-12 years.
6. Leonberger
With a short-lived lifespan of around 7 years, the Leonberger is a gentle giant with a loving temperament. This dog has a German origin and comes in a thick, luxurious coat that sheds a lot and needs daily brushing to keep it in good shape.
They’re high-energy dogs, even when they’re puppies, and live happy lives with owners who can give them a lot of physical activity. They’re better suited for homes with a lot of space, like a big yard, where they can live comfortably and burn off their energy.
These doggos need proper diet and exercise, as well as regular vet visits to look out for certain health issues, like bloat (that can be life-threatening at times), bone cancer, joint disease, and cataracts, as per PetMD.
7. Kuvasz
Kuvasz is a very sweet-looking and lovable dog that comes in a white, thick double coat that’s somewhat curly in texture. They’re protective dogs that have been used in herding and are known for their loyalty.
Kuvasz lives for around 11-12 years; despite their lifespan being on a comparatively shorter side, they’re generally a healthy breed.
But depending on lifestyle and genetics, even these pups are at risk of some diseases like thyroid disorders, progressive retinal atrophy, and gastric torsion (which can be life-threatening and sometimes requires surgery as treatment).
Kuvs are independent and spirited doggos that need an experienced owner who understands their temperaments. Positive reinforcement works better for these smart and brave pups than harsh methods.
FAQs
Are there ways to help extend the lifespan of these uncommon breeds?
While all dog breeds have a specific average lifespan, lifestyle, nutrition, and proper vet checkups can contribute to a long and healthy life for your dog.
What health problems commonly shorten the lifespan of these breeds?
Different issues like obesity, genetic health problems like heart disease, spinal disease, and gastric problems can lead to a dog’s life expectancy being on the shorter side. Appropriate physical activity and quality food can play a huge role in keeping a dog healthy.
Why do large and uncommon breeds tend to have shorter lifespans?
Certain breeds that are large and rare ones are bred through selective breeding for size or some other attribute. According to research, selective breeding might be the reason rare and large dogs have shorter lives than smaller dog breeds.
Conclusion
While these uncommon dog breeds are very fascinating and make amazing pets for owners who match their energy levels and temperaments, it’s important to know their health needs. Get in touch with reputed breeders or breed clubs to adopt a healthy and properly bred doggo.
