FYI: we may earn a commission for qualified purchases made through the links in our articles (learn more).
Here at goodpuplife.com, we love dogs of all breeds and sizes, and have long heard countless stories of small, teacup dogs outliving their larger counterparts. Today, we look at the reasons why, the biggest threats to our biggest and cuddliest canine companions, and what we can do to protect them better.
Quick Summary
- Studies show that small dogs outlive larger-breed dogs primarily because larger dogs age faster than small-breed dogs. Larger dogs have a higher risk of heart problems, such as tachycardia, cardiomyopathy, and aortic stenosis.
- Large-breed dogs face heightened risks of cancer, heart disease (specifically dilated cardiomyopathy and tachycardia), and various bone and muscle problems.
- Taking proactive measures such as regular veterinary check-ups, weight management, controlled diet, exercise, environmental modifications, early detection and treatment, and breed-specific research can help mitigate these health risks and ensure the well-being of large-breed dogs.
A new study from the University of Göttingen in Germany has confirmed that small dogs do scientifically outlive larger-breed dogs. To put it more bluntly, bigger dogs die more often from diseases than small dogs. I can personally attest to the fact that big dogs are more susceptible to heart problems. Big dogs are prone to various types of tachycardia, as well as potentially serious conditions like cardiomyopathy and aortic stenosis. Although it may sound daunting to hear all of these potential issues, I’m here to tell you that although bigger dogs are more prone to diseases, dog owners are more than capable of mitigating these risks, if not eliminating them entirely. All it takes is knowing the best practices in preventing each one.
Why bigger dogs suffer from health issues more often
According to NBC News, large dogs age at a faster rate than smaller dogs, thus dying at an earlier age. Researchers found that a small, 9-pound toy Poodle can live up to 14 years while a large, 155-pound Great Dane will only live seven years.
To come to their results, the researchers at the university analyzed the lifespan of 74 breeds of dogs and compiled the results with data from more than 56,000 dogs who had visited veterinary teaching hospitals.
The University’s Cornelia Kraus told LiveScience: “Their lives seem to unwind in fast motion.”
The researchers found that not only do large dogs age at a faster rate, but the speed at which the risk of death increased with age was greater in larger dogs than smaller ones[1]. The general formula the researchers put together was a loss of one month of life for every increase of 4.4 pounds in the body-mass spectrum.
These factors are at the root of why large dogs are so susceptible to a wide range of health problems.
The Most Common Health Risks Faced By Large-Breed Dogs
Heightened Risk Of Cancer
During their study, the researchers also found that larger dogs, including mixed breed dogs and specific dog breeds, suffer from canine cancer more often than smaller dogs. This increased cancer risk is attributed to a large-breed dog’s body size, which results in a higher number of cells that can potentially become abnormal and cancerous.
Heart Disease
Dilated cardiomyopathy
Dilated cardiomyopathy is the most commonly seen heart disease in large and giant-breed dogs. It involves the weakening of the heart and its inability to efficiently pump blood throughout the body. Symptoms of dilated cardiomyopathy may include weakness, exercise intolerance, coughing, difficulty breathing, and, in cases where the right ventricle is affected, a distended abdomen due to fluid accumulation.
Tachycardia (Rapid Heart Rate)
Tachycardia refers to an abnormally high heart rate, which varies depending on the size of the dog. On average, most dogs have a heart rate between 70 and 120 beats per minute (bpm). Smaller dogs tend to have higher heart rates compared to larger dogs. Tachycardia is typically characterized by heart rates exceeding 140 bpm in large dogs, 160 bpm in medium-sized dogs, 180 bpm in small dogs, or 220 bpm in puppies.
Aortic stenosis
Aortic stenosis is a condition where the aortic valve, which serves as the passage between the heart’s primary chamber and the main artery supplying blood to the body, becomes narrow. Dogs are born with this condition, but it may not be evident until it progresses to a severe stage. When the aortic valve is narrow, the heart has to exert more effort to pump blood through it. Aortic stenosis is more commonly found in large-breed dogs, although it can affect any breed or mixed breed.
Arthritis And Other Bone And Muscle Problems
Large dogs, including large breed dogs, possess an elevated vulnerability to developing arthritis due to their larger physique. Arthritis, characterized by the gradual deterioration of protective cartilage at the ends of bones, hampers smooth movement within the joints. This degenerative condition manifests various symptoms, including lameness.
In addition to arthritis, large breeds often face another common skeletal issue called ‘Wobblers’ or Spondylolisthesis, which is an inherited malformation affecting the neck vertebrae. This particular condition can lead to weakness and an unsteady gait in certain large dogs.
The occurrence of dysplasia is also prominent in large breeds. This genetic condition disrupts the proper fitting of hip, elbow, and shoulder joints. Although primarily genetic, it is noteworthy that even large dogs without a family history of dysplasia can develop it if they undergo rapid growth, engage in incorrect exercise routines, or have an inadequate diet. Similar to arthritis, dysplasia can debilitate or even cripple a dog.
Muscular problems, such as ligament tears, are among the most prevalent disorders encountered in larger-bodied dogs. These tears can occur when dogs frequently land forcefully from jumps or make sharp turns. The weight and force exerted during these movements put strain on the legs, resulting in twisted ligaments and subsequent tearing.
Other Problems More Pronounced In Large Dogs
Hyperthyroidism
Hypothyroidism can impact dogs of all breeds, although it is more frequently observed in large-breed dogs. The thyroid gland, located in the neck, plays a crucial role in regulating the dog’s metabolism, which involves the conversion of food into energy through the production of the hormone thyroxine. However, in cases of hypothyroidism, the gland fails to generate an adequate amount of this hormone.
This condition can also affect mixed breed dogs with ancestry from large breeds. It typically manifests in middle-aged dogs, typically between the ages of 4 and 10, particularly those of medium to large breeds. Interestingly, neutered males and spayed females face a higher risk, although veterinarians are uncertain about the precise reasons for this correlation.
Bloat
Bloat is a condition characterized by gastric distention, it is commonly observed among deep-chested, larger breeds, including large breed dogs. In some instances, bloat can involve torsion, where the stomach twists and flips over itself, leading to severe complications. The risk of developing bloat is notably higher in large-breed dogs with deep chests. Additionally, dogs with a familial history of Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) also face an increased risk.
Several factors contribute to the risk of bloat, including a dog’s eating habits. Dogs that consume their meals quickly, eat from raised bowls, or have a single large meal each day are more prone to experiencing bloat.
What Can Be Done To Mitigate These Health Risks
Taking proactive steps to address the health risks faced by large-breed dogs can significantly improve their well-being and longevity. By implementing the following measures, owners can help mitigate these health risks:
Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Schedule regular visits to the veterinarian to monitor your dog’s overall health and detect any potential issues at an early stage.
Weight Management
Maintain a healthy weight for your dog through a balanced diet and regular exercise. Obesity puts extra strain on joints and can exacerbate conditions like arthritis and dysplasia.
- Controlled Diet: Provide a well-balanced diet that meets your dog’s nutritional needs. Avoid overfeeding and opt for multiple smaller meals throughout the day instead of one large meal.
- Slow Feeding: Utilize food puzzles or slow-feeders to encourage your dog to eat at a slower pace, reducing the risk of bloat and promoting better digestion.
- Exercise and Physical Activity: Engage your dog in regular exercise tailored to their breed and size. Appropriate exercise can help maintain muscle strength, joint mobility, and overall fitness.
- Careful Monitoring of Physical Activities: Avoid high-impact activities or excessive jumping, particularly for larger dogs, to minimize the risk of ligament tears and other muscular problems.
Environmental Modifications
Make necessary adjustments to your dog’s living environment to ensure their safety and comfort. Provide supportive bedding, avoid slippery surfaces, and use ramps or stairs for easier access to elevated areas.
Early Detection and Treatment
Be vigilant for signs of health issues such as lameness, lethargy, or changes in behavior. Promptly seek veterinary attention if any symptoms arise to initiate appropriate treatment.
Breed-Specific Research
If considering adding a large-breed dog to your family, conduct thorough research on breed-specific health risks. Understanding potential genetic predispositions can help in proactive management and early intervention.
By implementing these measures, owners can play an active role in mitigating the health risks faced by large-breed dogs, promoting their well-being, and extending their lifespan. And responsible pet owners should already be doing these things already anyway. You just need to crank it up a little bit to minimize the likelihood of any of these health risks ever befalling your pup.
Leave a Reply