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According to researchers, flat-faced breeds like pugs and French bulldogs have a 40% higher likelihood of having shorter lifespans compared to other dog breeds.
A recent research indicates that the typical lifespan of dogs in the UK is approximately 12.5 years, with Lancashire heelers having the longest expected life of 15.4 years.
On average, Caucasian shepherds have the shortest lifespan at 5.4 years, followed by presa canario (7.7 years) and cane corso (8.1 years).
According to a study published in the journal Scientific Reports and led by the Dogs Trust, life expectancy differs based on breed, body size, and facial structure.
The findings revealed that medium-sized brachycephalic dogs, known for their flat facial structure, had the shortest average lifespans. Males lived an average of 9.1 years while females lived 9.6 years.
According to the researchers, the demand for flat-faced dog breeds like pugs (11.6 years) and French bulldogs (9.8 years) is increasing, despite the numerous health and well-being concerns that come with owning them. These issues include respiratory problems, digestive troubles, and various eye and dental diseases.
According to Dr. Dan O’Neill, the leader of the Brachycephalic Working Group (BWG), the problems faced by flat-faced dog breeds have caused a crisis in their health and well-being. The BWG consists of professionals from the veterinary, breeding, and welfare fields.
He stated that this recent study highlights significant health concerns by demonstrating that flat-faced dogs have a lifespan that is 1.5 years shorter than that of regular dogs.
It is important for people to prioritize their health over the desire for a “cute” appearance. We encourage anyone thinking about getting a flat-faced breed to pause and carefully consider their decision, making sure to choose a dog with the best potential for a long and happy life.
It is essential for the general population to prioritize their health over what they perceive as “adorable.”
lifestyle data using the VetCompass program for over 12 years.
For more than 12 years, Dr. Dan O’Neill, a veterinarian from the United Kingdom, has been collecting and analyzing data on pet health and lifestyle through the VetCompass program.
The research, headed by Dr. Kirsten McMillan, a data manager at the Dogs Trust, examined data from over 500,000 dogs in the UK from 150 different pure breeds and mixed breeds.
The group collected information from 18 various sources in the UK, such as registries for breeds, veterinarians, pet insurance providers, organizations for animal welfare, and academic establishments.
The Lancashire heeler, Tibetan spaniel (15.2 years), and miniature dachshund (14.0 years) were discovered to have the longest lifespans.
Labradors and cocker spaniels both had longer lifespans than the average age, with Labradors living an average of 13.1 years and cocker spaniels living an average of 13.3 years.
The research team discovered that larger breeds have a 20% higher chance of having a shorter lifespan compared to smaller breeds.
Female canines were observed to have a longer lifespan of 12.7 years compared to males with a lifespan of 12.4 years. It was also noted that purebred dogs had a higher anticipated lifespan of 12.7 years compared to crossbreeds with a lifespan of 12.0 years.
On the other hand, smaller dog breeds with long noses, like whippets, had the longest average lifespan of 13.3 years.
According to Dr. McMillan’s research, there are variations in life expectancy based on breed, body size, facial structure, and gender. This study is the first of its kind to analyze and compare all of these factors in conjunction with evolutionary history.
Several factors come together to make the problem worse. For instance, medium-sized male dogs with flat faces are almost three times more likely to have shorter lifespans compared to small-sized female dogs with long faces.
This research has significant consequences for the discussion on the health of purebred dogs. While it does not identify specific factors that increase the risk of early death, it does draw attention to certain groups that should be further examined.
This research aims to assist breeders, policymakers, funding agencies, and welfare organizations in making well-informed choices to enhance the well-being of pet dogs. Additionally, it aims to educate dog owners on the various factors that impact the health and lifespan of their pets, particularly when obtaining a new dog.
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