Many people associate large dog breeds with tragically short life spans. It’s a fact of life that sometimes, gentle giants leave far too soon. However, there are some large breeds out there that completely defy this phenomenon and can live much beyond the usual ten-year lifespan.
Breeds like the Doberman Pinscher, Alaskan Malamute, and Belgian Shepherd stand out because of how long they often live. If you’re a lover of big dogs, but worry about their short lifespans, you may enjoy welcoming one of these breeds into your home!
1. Doberman Pinschers
Doberman Pinschers usually weigh anywhere from 60 to 100 pounds and stand 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder. They are very sleek, muscular dogs that have athletic builds that make them easy to spot in a crowd.
These German dogs are known for their loyalty towards their family and innate intelligence. These dogs are so easy to train and go really well in obedience and protection work. Their high energy levels make them a fun canine to have around, and they enjoy activities that challenge them both mentally and physically, such as agility and puzzle games.
They are very affectionate with their families and can be super protective, making them great guard dogs and family companions. And good news! They have a lifespan of around 10 to 13 years, which is pretty long for a large breed. However, they can be prone to health issues like dilated cardiomyopathy (a heart condition), von Willebrand’s disease (a bleeding disorder), and hip dysplasia. This is why regular vet checkups, exercise, and a balanced diet are so important.
2. Alaskan Malamutes
Alaskan Malamutes are wolf-like dogs that weigh 75 to 100 pounds, with females being on the smaller side. They stand about 23 to 25 inches tall at the withers, sporting a thick, double coat suited for cold climates.
Alaskan Malamutes are really friendly dogs, known for their loyal nature. They are loving toward their families and are often very good with children. It is important to know that they have energy levels and an independent/stubborn streak. They need a lot of exercise to stay healthy and stimulated. When socialized well, they are good-natured and can get along well with other canines.
With proper veterinary care and genetic screening, they live to around 10 to 14 years of age––again, great for dogs this size. They can be prone to hip dysplasia, eye conditions like cataracts, and hypothyroidism. Taking them to the vet often is important to both prevent and manage these things and keep your dog healthy.
3. Belgian Shepherds
Belgian Shepherds are highly intelligent and versatile dogs. They weigh about 50 to 75 pounds and stand around 22 to 26 inches tall. They are medium to large-sized dogs with grand, athletic builds. They have a weather-resistant coat that needs a lot of regular grooming to stay tangle-free.
They love canine sports and activities like herding, obedience, and agility, thanks to their high energy levels and love of stimulation. They thrive in environments where they can have frequent physical and mental stimulation. Belgian Shepherds are really loyal and protective of their families and are known for forming strong bonds. However, they can be reserved with strangers, making early socialization key to avoid canine aggression.
These dogs live between 12 to 15 years, which is really impressive for a larger breed of dog. They can be prone to conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and some autoimmune disorders. Supplements, medications, and regular vet visits can keep these dogs in good shape for years to come.
4. Labrador Retrievers
Labrador Retrievers are known for being happy-go-lucky dogs with friendly and outgoing natures. They are great family pets that are great with children and other animals––which is why they’re so popular! They usually weigh around 55 to 80 pounds and stand 21 to 25 inches tall, with short, dense, water-resistant coats that gleam in the sun.
These dogs are really energetic and trainable, making them perfect for obedience and various breed-specific sports. These dogs are super affectionate and love to create strong bonds with their beloved families. They are known for being very loyal and eager to please.
Usually, these dogs live between 10 to 14 years of age, and most of them reach the higher end of this range! Still, they can be prone to health issues such as elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and canine obesity. Keeping up with regular exercise and a balanced diet is vital to keep these dogs healthy in both their weight and mental health.
They benefit from engaging activities and play to keep them mentally and physically stimulated and avoid any undesirable behaviors, such as excessive chewing and barking.
Proper Healthcare Helps Dogs Live Long Lives
Many large dog breeds face many challenges directly related to their size and the associated health risks. However, some great breeds, like the ones above, can defy the usual lifespan expectations of large dog breeds.
Knowing about these dogs’ size, temperament, and health risks can help you help them live long lives! With the proper care, regular exercise, and regular vet checkups, these dogs can have extended lifespans and be your best buddy and main companion for many years to come! Doesn’t that sound like every dog owner’s dream?
