Risk factors associated with a pet’s lifespan are of great interest to vets and pet owners alike. Anything we can do to give them a long, healthy and happy life is of great importance.

A recent study in America looked at over two million pet dogs and found that mixed breed dogs lived significantly longer than pure breeds; increasing body size was associated with a reduced lifespan; neutering had a positive impact on prolonging lifespans in both male and female dogs; and regular dental scaling was associated with an increased lifespan.

In the UK the average dog lives to 12 years of age. The pure breeds with the longest lifespans are Miniature Poodles and Border Collies (14 years), then Bearded Collies, West Highland White Terriers and Miniature Dachshunds (13.5 years). Sadly, several large breeds have very short life expectancies. The Dogue De Bordeaux can expect to live for only 5.5 years and the Great Dane only 6 years.

A 2015 study of Labradors that lived to a very old age determined that maintenance of lean body weight was a key factor of longer lifespan in this group of geriatric dogs.

The leading cause of death is cancer in both dogs and cats, then musculoskeletal and neurological disease. In dogs less than 3 years old gastrointestinal, traumatic and behavioural disorders are the leading causes of death.

What can pet owners do?

What can we practically do with all of this information? When our pets are young we should focus on avoidable traumas – keeping cats in at night, keeping dogs on leads around roads, watching out for foreign objects that they eat that can cause blockages (corn on the cob, toys, bones, etc.) and keeping our pets at a healthy weight and size.

Neutering should be considered, especially for female dogs. As they get older, regular check ups become more important, both to detect problems at an early stage but also to keep an eye on dental disease and weight.

Choosing the right breed or cross-breed might be one of the most important decisions you make. Next time you are considering a puppy or kitten, why not give your local vet clinic a ring and ask about what health problems you should be aware of and whether the breed you like is one that your local vet or vet nurse would choose!