The lifespan of domestic dogs is usually associated with the quality of food and the frequency of examinations by veterinarians.
British scientists have named several more factors that do not depend on circumstances, but are associated exclusively with the characteristics of the breed.
As part of the research, scientists conducted a comparative analysis of purebred dogs bred through crossbreeding, Scientific Reports reports.
It turned out that the indicator is associated with the animal’s gender, breed, and size.
Results of the study
Scientists primarily included dogs with an elongated muzzle among the long-livers.
And brachycephalic dogs (dogs with flat faces) were found to be at risk of developing a number of diseases.
According to researchers, a dog's lifespan is also related to its body size. It has been established that small dogs live longer than large ones.
In addition, females were identified as long-livers, who lived longer than males, regardless of whether they were purebred or crossbred.
Studying the differences between breeds, experts found that Caucasian Shepherds, Canary Dogs, Cane Corsos, Mastiffs and St. Bernards, as well as Bulldogs, are most at risk of early death.
The following dog breeds were named long-lived: Tibetan spaniel, Shiba Inu, Lakeland terrier, Papillon, Schipperke, Border terrier, Italian greyhound, and miniature dachshund.
On average, they live 14-15 years.
However, scientists note that the research results were calculated for animals living in the UK.
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