2006-09-15 06:48:09 · 8 answers · asked by chapped lips 5 in Pets ➔ Dogs
We all want our pet dogs to live as long as possible, but the fact of the matter is that on average, certain dog breeds live longer than others. This might be a consideration when choosing a dog breed and it is therefore useful information to know before hand.
The average life span of the North American or European dog is 12.8 years. This is a large increase in life span over the past 100 years and is mostly attributable to better food and better medical care. Within this 12.8 year average for all dogs is a large range of life spans where certain breeds live longer and certain breeds live less long. In general, larger dogs live shorter lives than smaller dogs. This is due to the fact that the bodies of larger dogs must work harder (are more stressed) than the bodies of smaller dogs. That said, the life expectancy of any one dog in particular is ALSO determined by the stresses in its life (both physical and psychological), what it eats and how well it is taken care of.
For a list of average life spans of various breeds, visit the web site below:
2006-09-15 07:19:35 · answer #1 · answered by Laurie D 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My understanding is that it has to do with the proportionate size of the heart and organs. All dogs being descended from the wolf, smaller dogs have proportionately larger organs where as larger dogs have proportionately smaller.
2006-09-15 07:18:25 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
smaller dogs have a slower metabolism than larger breeds.
2006-09-15 15:05:41 · answer #3 · answered by pat k 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I find it strange that this is true...after all, elephants live a long time but hamsters have a short life-span. My brother has great danes and the longest he has had one live was 9 years but that was with only the very best food and care.
2006-09-15 08:25:54 · answer #4 · answered by Dellajoy 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
less strain on internal organs. I have an English Bulldog (with a huge ribcage) heavy breather but the heart has to strain more to support the weight and muscle size.
2006-09-15 06:50:48 · answer #5 · answered by lawzlaw 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Their heart has less work to do, so doesn't age as quickly. However, the breed I raise is large, and is long lived..
2006-09-15 06:50:47 · answer #6 · answered by Chetco 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
their organs are better suited for their bodies then the larger dogs
2006-09-15 07:25:43 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
hu said so
2006-09-15 06:51:35 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋