If you want the same dog on a leash for many years, a true companion for life, go for a Jack Russell Terrier. These active, energetic canines – they’re born hunters, so don’t opt for one if you spend the day on the couch – have a life expectancy of almost 13 years, the longest of any dog breed, according to a study conducted by out in the UK. However, flat-faced breeds like the endearing French bulldogs and pugs tend to last fewer years.
Dogs
Researchers from the National Taiwan University analyzed 30,563 records of dog deaths in veterinary practices across the UK between 2016 and 2020 using VetCompass, a database that indexes millions of clinical records collected from veterinary centers. The animals were categorized into 18 dog breeds recognized by the Kennel Club, an organization dedicated to the health, welfare and training of dogs, and also in a group of crossbred dogs. They created tables that calculate life expectancy from birth.
The results, published in ‘Scientific Reports’indicate that Jack Russell Terriers had the highest life expectancy at birth (12.72 years), followed by the small but characterful Yorkshire Terriers (12.54 years), the intelligent Border Collies (12.10 years) and the animated Springer Spaniels (11.92 years).
By contrast, French Bulldogs, which have been so fashionable in recent years, had the lowest life expectancy at birth: a shockingly meager 4.53 years, three less than a domestic rabbit. They are also three fewer than other flat-faced breeds that showed low life expectancies at birth, including English Bulldogs (7.39 years) and Pugs (7.65 years).
Health risks
The authors propose that these short lifespans could be a result of the high health risks known to occur in these breeds. These animals suffer from ear infections, diarrhea and conjunctivitis. In addition, due to their physical characteristics – flat snout and flat face – they can also be more prone to respiratory or skin problems.
Across all dog breeds, the average life expectancy at birth for males was 11.1 years, four months less than the estimate for females. The castrated specimens had a longer life expectancy (11.98 years for females and 11.49 years for males) than those that were not castrated (10.50 years for females and 10.58 years for males). The authors are not clear whether castration is a life-prolonging benefit or simply reflects more responsible owners and better care.
Font: Judith de Jorge / ABC
Reference article: https://www.abc.es/ciencia/abci-raza-perros-vive-mas-tiempo-202204281707_noticia.html
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