Decoding Dog Lifespans: How Long Do Dogs Live?

Written by Shannon Byers

Fact-Checked by Dr. Jacqueline Brister, DVM

Updated

Medical articles
An older dog with owner in a field contemplating how long dogs live

As pet parents, we all wish our furry friends could stay by our side forever, doing all the silly, adorable things that make us love them so much. But let's face it, our dogs' lives are way too short compared to ours. It's a tough pill to swallow, and saying goodbye is never easy. That's why it's important to understand the ins and outs of a dog's life expectancy.  

So, how long do dogs live? Well, it depends on a few things like their breed, size, and overall health. While the average lifespan of a dog is between 10-16 years, several factors directly affect how long your family companion will be by your side. As a species, dogs are incredibly diverse in size, build and appearance – primarily due to human intervention. Therefore, it's not surprising that there are significant differences in lifespan depending on what dog breed you own. 

The Oldest Living Dogs  

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of what affects a dog's lifespan, let's take a moment to celebrate an incredible canine who defied the odds. Bluey, an Australian cattle dog, holds the Guinness World Record for the oldest dog ever verified. Born in 1910, Bluey lived an astonishing 29 years and 5 months, passing away in 1939. 

Bluey spent his life working as a cattle dog on a farm in Victoria, Australia. He was known for his exceptional skills in herding cattle and his unwavering loyalty to his owner, Les Hall. Bluey's longevity has been attributed to several factors, including his active lifestyle, a diet consisting mainly of kangaroo and emu meat, and the love and care provided by his owner. 

Bluey's story is a testament to the potential for dogs to live incredibly long lives when provided with the right conditions. While reaching the age of 29 is extremely rare, Bluey's legacy continues to inspire pet owners around the world. 

How Long Do Small Dogs Live?  

Generally speaking, smaller dogs tend to live longer than their larger counterparts. On average, small-breed dogs live between 12-16 years, but they can be prone to certain health issues as they age, like heart disease and dental problems. Here are the average lifespans of some of the most popular small dog breeds: 

How Long Do Medium-Sized Dogs Live?  

Medium-sized dogs usually have a lifespan that falls somewhere in the middle, around 10-15 years. But just like with any dog, their lifespan and potential health issues can vary quite a bit from breed to breed and even from dog to dog. Here are the average lifespans for some well-known medium-sized dog breeds: 

How Long Do Large Dogs Live?  

Large dog breeds, on the other hand, tend to have slightly shorter lifespans than medium-sized dogs, averaging around 9-14 years. And those giant breeds? They have the shortest average lifespan of all, at 8-10 years. We're not entirely sure why larger dogs don't live as long as smaller ones. One theory is that bigger dogs might be more likely to develop certain cancers because they grow from puppies to adults so quickly, which could increase the chances of abnormal cell growth and development. 

Interestingly, the fact that larger dogs have shorter lifespans than smaller dogs is actually an exception to the rule in the animal kingdom. Usually, larger species outlive smaller ones. This phenomenon, called the "size-lifespan trade-off," is still a bit of a mystery when it comes to our canine friends. Here are some examples of popular large dog breeds and their average lifespans: 

Factors Affecting Dog Lifespan  

Breed certainly plays a role in a dog's lifespan, but it's just one piece of the puzzle. Many other factors influence how long our canine companions live healthy lives. Understanding these factors empowers you to create a lifestyle that fosters your dog's well-being and potentially extends their time by your side. 

The Role of Genetics in Dog Life Expectancy  

A dog's lifespan is significantly influenced by its genetic makeup. Purebred dogs are more likely to develop certain inherited diseases because they're bred with other dogs that have similar genes. Mixed-breed dogs generally have a lower risk of these diseases, which can help them live longer. However, some breeds are purposely bred to have certain traits that can actually shorten their lifespans, like brachycephalic breeds (English bulldogs, French bulldogs, pugs) which are more likely to develop respiratory diseases due to their short snouts. 

Environmental Factors and Dog Lifespan  

While genetics play a significant role in a dog's lifespan, environmental factors can also have a substantial impact. These factors include: 

  • Diet: Providing your dog with a balanced, age-appropriate diet is crucial for maintaining their overall health and longevity. Overfeeding or feeding a diet lacking in essential nutrients can lead to obesity and other health issues that can shorten a dog's lifespan. 

  • Exercise: Regular exercise helps keep your dog physically fit, maintains a healthy weight, and provides mental stimulation. A lack of exercise can contribute to obesity and other health problems that can reduce a dog's life expectancy. 

  • Dental Care: Poor dental hygiene can lead to periodontal disease, which can cause pain, tooth loss, and even systemic health issues. Regular dental check-ups and at-home dental care can help prevent these problems and contribute to a longer lifespan. 

  • Mental Enrichment: Engaging your dog's mind with puzzles, games, and training sessions can help reduce stress, prevent boredom, and potentially even improve cognitive function – all of which can contribute to a longer, happier life. 

  • Access to Veterinary Care: Regular check-ups, preventive care (such as vaccinations and parasite control), and prompt treatment of health issues can significantly impact a dog's lifespan. Ensuring your dog receives appropriate veterinary care throughout their life is essential for maximizing their longevity. 

By understanding and addressing these environmental factors, pet parents can create a nurturing and healthy environment that supports their dog's longevity and overall well-being. 

Bernese Mountain Dog Outside with Owner

Follow Your Vet's Guidance  

To keep your dog healthy and help them live as long as possible, make sure to follow your vet's recommendations for preventive care. This includes regular vaccinations against infectious diseases and appropriate prevention for fleas, ticks, and heartworms, depending on where you live. 

On top of that, it's a good idea to have your furry friend tested for intestinal and blood parasites at least once a year. You should also talk to your vet about doing blood work to check your dog's liver, kidney, and bone marrow health, especially as they get older. Establishing baselines when they're young and monitoring them over time can help catch and manage diseases early on. 

Keep Your Dog at a Healthy Weight  

Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is important for their overall well-being. Nearly 34 percent of adult dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese, which can really take a toll on their lifespan. Studies show that obese dogs live an average of 2-3 years less than dogs at a healthy weight. Keeping your pup at a healthy weight is key to reducing their risk of weight-related diseases, improving their quality of life, and helping them live as long as possible. 

Protecting Your Dog with Pet Insurance  

As a responsible pet parent, you want to give your dog the best possible care throughout their life. But let's be real, vet bills can add up fast, especially as your dog gets older and more prone to health issues. That's where pet insurance comes in. 

Dog insurance plans can help cover the cost of accidents, illnesses, and conditions, making sure your furry friend gets the medical attention they need without breaking the bank. By investing in pet insurance, you're not just protecting your wallet. You're also giving your dog a better chance at a longer, healthier life. With insurance, you can afford to give your pup the best possible care, catching and treating health issues early on before they become more serious (and expensive). When choosing a pet insurance policy, look for one that offers comprehensive coverage, customizable plans, and a straightforward claims process. 

Some pet insurance providers, like Embrace, even offer optional, non-insurance wellness plans, which can help you budget for the cost of routine care like annual check-ups, vaccinations, and dental cleanings. By investing in your dog's health through pet insurance, you're not just giving them the best possible care, you're potentially extending their lifespan and creating more cherished memories together. 

How Long Do Dogs Live?

Embrace a Long Life Together  Our dogs are so much more than just pets; they're cherished family members who bring joy, love, and companionship to our lives. As much as we wish they could stay with us forever, the reality is that their lifespans are much shorter than ours. By understanding the factors that influence a dog's life expectancy and taking proactive steps to support their health and well-being, we can help our furry friends live longer, happier lives. 

At the end of the day, the time we have with our dogs is precious, and it's up to us to make the most of every moment. By being informed, proactive, and loving pet parents, we can help our dogs live life to the fullest and create a lifetime of cherished memories together.