Dogs, large and small, have captured the hearts of millions, if not billions, of people worldwide. Sometimes, we, as pet owners, specifically choose a breed, or other times we select a dog based on their personality, not their breed. Whatever your preference is, if you’ve ended up with a big to large dog, you might be wondering – what is their average lifespan?
According to top scientific reports and several well-proven research studies, large breeds DO have a shorter lifespan than their smaller dog counterparts. Generally speaking, the smaller the dog, the longer its life. Throughout the course of this article, we will discuss some of the most common breeds of big and large dogs, what their life expectancy is, and how you can help them to live longer through proper nutrition and exercise.
The Bernese Mountain Dog
On the lower end of the life expectancy spectrum, the Bernese Mountain Dog lives an average of eight-ten years. According to the AKC,, Bernese Mountain dogs thrive in cold climates, get along well with children, and are very affectionate.
The AKC goes on to say that Bernese Mountain Dogs “are generally healthy dogs, and responsible breeders will screen their breeding stock for health conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, blood disorders, some cancers, and progressive retinal atrophy.” That being said, as a larger dog weighing in at 70-115 pounds and 23 – 27.7 inches tall, these big dogs won’t live as long as smaller dogs due to general wear and tear on their body and the above-mentioned health concerns.
To keep your Bernese healthy and happy for as long as possible, you will want to ensure that they get plenty of exercise every day. This includes going for a walk, a light jog, or a hike. Additionally, you will want to make sure that your pup is eating a healthy, nutritious diet approved by your veterinarian due to Bernese often having problems with their body weight and calorie consumption.
Great Dane
One of the larger breed dogs, Great Danes, have an average life expectancy of nine to ten years. According to Hills Pet,, “in spite of their size, Great Danes are considered gentle giants, are moderately playful and good with children.” They make a great canine companion for all of your family members.
As true with other giant breeds, Great Danes’ shorter lifespans are due to a myriad of health problems they could face over the course of their lifetime, including bloat and possible twisting of the stomach. This condition is the number one killer of Great Danes. Owners of Great Danes should educate themselves to recognize the signs that cause bloat and what to do if it’s happening.
Many breeders and Great Dane owners consider a surgery called prophylactic gastropexy that acts as a preventative measure. Please stay up on their veterinary care. Other health issues that can affect your Great Dane include eye and cardiac disease, hypothyroidism, and autoimmune diseases, among many others.
Keeping your Great Dane healthy is as easy as taking them for a regular walk. But you might want to avoid dogs and Hikes until your dog is at least two years old to prevent damage to her growing joints. To avoid the risk of potential bloat, don’t do very rigorous exercising around meal time.. A healthy diet and mental stimulation are also important in this breed
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are considered a giant dog breed, coming in at 100 to 150lbs. On average, and living between 10 and 11 years. Known as a powerful working dog with heavy bones and a dignified bearing, this sweet-tempered dog is famously a good companion and has become known to be a patient and watchful nanny dog for kids.
As a perfect family dog, Newfoundlands often capture the hearts of everyone that surrounds them. That’s why it’s best to ensure their health before any issues arise. Some conditions you might want to look out for in Newfoundland that could cause their life expectancy include, elbow and hip dysplasia, cardiac disease, and ear infection.
To keep a Newfoundland happy and healthy, you want to make sure that they’re getting regular exercise for their high energy levels. Newfoundlands are multipurpose dogs and love exercising on both land and water.
In addition to regular exercise, your Newfoundland will do well with a high-quality dog food diet. Some Newfoundlands are prone to getting overweight, so you need to watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level along with her activity. If you have any concerns about your dog’s waiting or if you think they might be experiencing symptoms of bloat, which is a life-threatening stomach condition.
Akita
Coming in at 100 to 130 lbs., Akita’s are larger breeds of dogs that live on an average of 11 to 14 years. Coming from a Japanese lineage, these dogs are famous for their dignity, courage, and loyalty, and in Japan,, they’re even better rated as family protectors and symbols of good health and happiness in a long lifespan. As a perfect family dog, Akita’s are quiet and fast learners’ oh; they love snuggles and thrive on human companionship – great for households with kids.
As with all large dog breeds, Akita’s can experience bloat, which is the sudden life-threatening condition where your stomach can twist, and without Veterinary intervention, it can cause death. Other health concerns for Akita’s fall in line with some of the other worries for larger dogs, including hip dysplasia, thyroid disease, and the malformation of hip joints that can cause pain and arthritis.
Dog owners should be aware as an Akita Reaches seven years old, they should be on a lesser calorie diet to defend against the possible onset of kidney disease, which is shared with this breed as well.
Chow Chow
A fiercely independent dog breed, Chow Chow owners need to be consistent, patient, and ready to spend a lot of time devoted to their furry friends. It’s said that the “Chow combines the nobility of a lion, the drollness of a panda, the appeal of a teddy bear, the grace and independence of a cat, and the loyalty and devotion of a dog.”
Weighing in at about 70lbs, Chow Chow’s(medium-sized dogs), have longer lifespans of 12+/- years if they get proper exercise and are fed a good diet. As common with other larger dogs, a Chow Chow can experience hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and other issues, including allergies and thyroid issues. A full life of health concerns that Chow owners should look out for can be found here.
A Chow Chow is a very active dog that will need moderate exercise, including several walks per week. Make sure to avoid walking in high humidity or hot temperatures due to the thickness of the Chow’s coat. Extending the life of your Chow can also be possible if they are fed proper food. An ideal diet for a Chow would include commercial dry or wet food of high quality. Check your Chow regularly for signs of an allergy and consult a vet when necessary.
Belgian Malinois
A more uncommon dog breed, the Belgian Malinois comes in at about 60-80lbs and has one of the longest life expectancies for a large breed dog at 13-16 years. Malinois are known to be world-class working dogs that share unbreakable bonds with their humans, making them amazing companion dogs and dogs for families with children.
Malinois, which are purebred dogs, are healthy dogs with only a few health concerns to keep an eye on, including joint dysplasia and eye problems, making them relatively low maintenance health-wise. A Malinois will need plenty of exercises to be in top physical condition with daily walks, sometimes more than once daily, to keep your dog happy and healthy. Remember, mental exercise is also important for our pet parents to practice.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are purebred dogs. A most popular breed in the Unite States as well as the United Kingdom. The Golden Retriever live to an average age of 10-12 years. Cancer, heart disease, hypothyroidism and joint disease plague this beautiful dog. But with proper care, and veterinary intervention, golden’s can live long and fruitful lives.
The Bottom Line
Many large breed dogs will be susceptible to joint problems and bloat, causing them to have a short lifespan. If you’re planning on adding a large dog with an even larger heart full of love to your family, you should educate yourself on the signs and symptoms of common big dog diseases and nutrition to help extend your pup’s life. With the proper care, your dog can live a long time above their average life span. Check out our post on Reasons why your dog is biting and how to stop it.
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