The Truth About Lifespan: Why Small Dogs Outlive Big Dogs
We talk about 4 large dog breeds. But there are a lot of theories about why this is, some of them quite stupid. The biggest study that I know of, conducted in Europe, which included data from 50,000 dogs, came to the conclusion that big dogs die younger because they age faster.
4 Large Dog Breeds with Longevity: Rare but Real
However, 4 large dog breeds manage to live longer, but even they are not outstanding.
If life’s pen is important to you and you are not interested in one of the small dog breeds, here are the large dog breeds most likely to live a long time.
American Alsatian – A Dire Wolf Lookalike with a Gentle Soul
Number one, American Alsatian, this interesting large dog breed is being developed to look like the dire wolf, an extinct animal that roamed the Paleolithic countryside and feasted on the strange wild animals of that time. The dogs are being bred large (normally no less than 90 pounds), like the dire wolf.
Why It’s Special
A wolf can easily live 20 years. Why can’t a dog do? Although this dog breed is being developed to be very large and to have a common, non-aggressive personality, the breeders are also focusing on health.
What to Watch Out For
By allowing some larger dog breeds such as the great pyrenees they might also be introducing some health challenges among them but with continued watchful observation they might be in a position to control them to eliminate a lot of the problems since the very large dogs have only been introduced in the last 10 years it is still early to say if the program is going to work if things do work out there will be a great large dog breed available for those looking for a dog with a long life.
2. Alaskan Malamute – The Powerhouse with Surprising Patience
Number two, the Alaskan malamute, is probably one of the few very large dogs with a long lifespan. Dogs are large, up to 40 kilos, 90 pounds, but I have to add that, probably because there are not many health studies that prove the Alaskan malamute’s longevity.
Health & Lifespan Facts
A recent study 2004 from the UK in 2004 reported that their lifespan was only about 11 years; it is probably more like 15. Most of the studies do show a problem with hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and some problems with the eyes.
Personality & Daily Needs
Alaskan malamutes are great for several reasons besides their long lifespan. They are a healthy breed, they have a lot of power, and since they are sled dogs need long walks, unlike many dogs.
They are usually content to sit quietly and wait for their exercise. The Alaskan malamute is not submissive, and they are not easy to train. Most of them are not good watchdogs, and they are not good with smaller animals, but they are good pets for families that are into big dogs.
3. Doberman – Intelligent, Loyal, and Surprisingly Long-Lived
Number three, the Doberman, besides having a great lifespan, the doberman is also one of the most intelligent breeds of dog.
Intelligence & Reputation
Dobies are personal protection dogs bred not just to guard but to guard an individual. When the psychologist and dog author Stanley Coren interviewed dog breeders and trainers, the Doberman was listed as the fifth most intelligent breed.
Some others have ranked the dhobi first, but they all agree that they learn new commands quickly. Dobbies do have a rough reputation in certain circles because they are born to appear intimidating, but the majority are bred to be good-natured, and they make really good pets because they are so loyal.
Health Concerns to Know
Is your Doberman going to live as long as the average Alaskan malamute? Probably not. Some of the studies report a shorter life span in what I have listed, and other dogs have serious health problems that cause them to become ill when still young. Dogs are affected by dilative cardiomyopathy, an inherited condition that causes death in a significant number.
4. Anatolian Shepherd – A Rugged Guardian with a Long Legacy
Number of dogs they can also have other genetic diseases like Quabblers von Willebrand’s, and more common problems like hip dysplasia.
If you are interested in one of these great dogs and are willing to socialize and work with them, be sure to select a dog whose parents have been screened for all of those diseases listed. Look tough, but do not select your puppy based on looks. Find a healthy puppy.
Number four, Anatolian shepherd, this powerful dog is not for everyone, but if you are interested, the long life expectancy is only one of his good qualities. Dogs weigh up to 70 kilograms, 150 pounds.
But they can be smaller, around 40 kilos, no matter what your dog weighs. They appear to be bigger still in their plentiful coat and throat.
Ancient Roots & Survival Skills
The breed dates back thousands of years, and its development was in response to the rugged environment of the Anatolian plateau in Turkey.
They had to be tough enough to guard the flocks from wolves and bears, rugged enough to withstand cold winters and hot summers, and healthy enough to survive on their own.
Health & Longevity Stats
The one British study indicated that they had an average lifespan of 11, which was much longer as compared to majority of breeds of would have been of this size, but the majority of owners report them living even longer, up to 14. Similar to all large dogs, hip dysplasia can develop, and before breeding, the parents should be checked.
FAQ’s
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What are the top 10 largest dogs?
Breeds like the Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Mastiff, Newfoundland, Leonberger, Great Pyrenees, Irish Wolfhound, Anatolian Shepherd, Kuvasz, and Bernese Mountain Dog. -
What are all the large dog breeds?
Large breeds include Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Mastiffs, Irish Wolfhounds, Great Pyrenees, Newfoundlands, and other dogs typically over 70 lbs. -
What are the 7 major dog groups?
Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding. -
What is the best large dog?
It depends on lifestyle, but Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds are popular for their temperament and versatility.
