Dogs are more than just pets. They are loyal companions, furry friends, and family members. But how long do dogs live, and how do their lives change as they get older?
Find out how long you can expect your dog to live and what you can do to help your dog live longer.
How long do dogs live?
The lifespan of a dog varies greatly depending on their size, breed and overall health. The average lifespan of a dog is about 10 to 13 years, but some breeds can live up to 15 or even 20 years! If you apply the concept that one dog year roughly equates to seven human years, 20 years is 140 dog years!
What factors influence a dog’s lifespan?
The average lifespan of a dog depends on many factors, such as breed, size, health, and lifestyle.
Breed
Generally speaking, smaller breed dogs tend to live longer than larger breeds, and mixed breeds tend to live longer than purebreds. The average lifespan of a dog is about 10 to 13 years, but some breeds can live up to 15 or even 20 years!
Health
The health of your dog can have a significant impact on their lifespan. Some health issues, such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, can shorten your dog’s life. Some of these issues can be prevented or managed with proper care, such as regular check-ups, proactive preventative health measures, and a good diet.
Watch out for any signs of illness or pain in your dog and consult your local Greencross Vets if you notice anything unusual.
To save on your dog’s preventative health, sign up to Healthy Pets Plus, Greencross’s preventative health program designed to help your dog stay healthier and happier for longer.
Lifestyle
The lifestyle of your dog can also affect how long they live. Some factors that can enhance your dog’s quality and quantity of life include exercise, enrichment, socialization, and love. Exercise helps your dog stay fit, healthy, and happy, while enrichment stimulates their mind and prevents boredom. Socialization helps your dog develop positive relationships with other dogs and people, while love makes your dog feel secure and valued.
How can you help your dog live a long, healthy life?
While the average lifespan of a dog is around 10 to 13 years, there are a number of things you can do to help your dog live longer. Helping them stay fit and active, feeding them a complete and balanced diet appropriate for their lifestage, and taking them for regular check ups with your local Greencross Vets are just some of the ways you can help your dog stay in top shape.
It’s also important to keep a close eye on your pet for any signs of illness or changes in behaviour, as early detection of illnesses is often key to successful treatment.
What are the main stages of a dog’s life?
Puppyhood
This is the most adorable and playful stage, but also the most demanding. Puppies go through a lot of important developmental stages and growth in their first year of life.
Puppies are curious, playful, and energetic, but also need a lot of care, attention, and training. This is the time to puppy proof your home, feed your puppy a nutritious diet, socialise your puppy with other dogs and people, teach your puppy basic commands and manners, and start house training and crate training.
Adulthood
Puppies are considered adults when they reach one year of age, or 18 months for larger breeds. This is the prime time of your dog’s life. They are fully grown, active and confident. They still need regular check-ups, grooming and dental care, as well as mental stimulation and affection. They are strong, agile, and intelligent, but also adventurous, independent, and sometimes rebellious.
This is the time to continue training your dog, challenge your dog with new skills and activities, and provide your dog with enough exercise and stimulation. You should also monitor your dog’s weight, dental health, and coat condition, and book them in for regular wellness check ups with your veterinarian.
Senior Years
This is the golden age of your dog’s life. They may slow down a bit, but they still have a lot of love to give. Dogs are generally considered senior around 7 years of age, depending on their breed and size.
Senior dogs may develop some age-related issues, such as arthritis, hearing loss, vision loss or cognitive decline. They may need more frequent visits to the vet, as well as some adjustments to their diet and environment. They may also appreciate some extra comfort and cuddles.
Dogs are wonderful creatures that can enrich our lives in many ways. However, they also have a limited lifespan, and go through different stages of life that require different kinds of care and attention. The friendly team members at your local Petbarn store and Greencross Vets are always willing to help you keep your beloved dog happy and healthy at every life stage.