Life expectancy of dogs revealed

The average life expectancy of dogs is 11.2 years, new research reveals.

The new research, from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons’ Veterinary Companion Animal Surveillance System (VetCompass) with researchers from the National Taiwan University, shows Jack Russell terriers have the greatest life expectancy at 12.7 years, followed by border collies (12.1 years), and springer spaniels (11.92 years).

In comparison, four flat-faced breeds were found to have the shortest life expectancy with French bulldogs expected to live only 4.5 years, followed by English bulldogs at 7.4 years, pugs at 7.7 years, and American bulldogs 7.8 years.

Other key findings were that among Kennel Club breed groups, terrier had the longest life expectancy at 12.0 years, followed by gundog (11.7 years), pastoral (11.2 years), hound (10.7 years), toy (10.7 years), and utility (10.1 years).

The research shows there is a difference between the life expectancies of male and females, with male dogs living on average four months shorter (11.1 years).

Meanwhile, neutered dogs were found to have a longer life expectancy than their non-neutered counterparts.

Dr Justine Shotton, British Veterinary Association President, said: “These life tables offer an important insight into the life expectancy of popular dog breeds in the UK and will be a useful tool for vets and pet owners in assessing dog welfare.

“A concerning finding is the lower life expectancy for flat-faced breeds. While the study doesn’t prove a direct link between these breeds’ potential welfare issues and shorter length of life, the findings serve as a fresh reminder for prospective dog owners to choose a breed based on health, not looks.”

The study is published in the journal Scientific Reports.