"Large dog versus small dog age."

"Large dogs vs. small dogs age

Why do small dogs usually live longer than large dogs?

Large dogs, such as German Shepherds and Saint Bernards, typically live shorter lives than small dogs, like Chihuahuas. On average, large dogs live to be around 7 years old, while smaller dogs often live ten to fourteen years. New research provides an explanation: large dogs age faster.

Same Species

Despite the significant physical differences between large and small dogs, they belong to the same species. All dog breeds belong to the species Canis familiaris. Within this species, the rule seems to be: the larger the dog, the shorter the lifespan. This is in contrast to various mammal species where the rule is: the larger, the longer the lifespan. However, similar patterns can be observed within mammal species, as research indicates, for example, that smaller humans tend to live longer.

The Research

Researchers delved into this question by exploring the Veterinary Medical Database, which records details such as the age and cause of death of dogs. The researchers analyzed data from more than 50,000 dogs. It appears that the adult life of large dogs progresses at a faster pace than that of small dogs.

It remains unclear which mechanisms precisely underlie the "accelerated aging" and further research is needed to determine this. The researchers also aim to identify the diseases to which large dogs are most prone. The importance of the study lies in unraveling the evolutionary, genetic, and physiological connections between growth and mortality, emphasizing that dogs are a promising model for this investigation."

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