If your canine companion is your best friend, you might be wondering just how long do dogs live? We’re here to answer all your questions!
How Long Do Dogs Live?
Ever wondered how many years you get to spend with your loyal, tail-wagging companion? On average, dogs live anywhere between 10 to 13 years. But, as always, many dogs are far from average, and some will live for many years beyond this. In fact, the oldest dog in the world recently celebrated his 31st birthday – amazing!
Sadly, many dogs don’t make it into double figures, often due to health problems that lead to a shortened lifespan. Some of these issues are beyond our control… But by keeping your precious pooch fit and healthy you are giving it the best chance of living to a ripe old age.
Doggie Life Stages Explained
Like humans, dogs go through many different stages of their lives, and their needs change constantly according to which life stage they are in.
• Puppyhood
The puppy phase is one of the most fun-filled times you will have with your dog, but it will also be the hardest work! A young puppy is a bundle of boundless energy and endless curiosity, and, during the first year of life, your new puppy will grow at a speed that’s guaranteed to make your head spin.
Large breed dogs take longer to reach full physical maturity than small terrier types… But on average most dogs have reached maturity when they are 12 months old.
• Adulthood
After the crazy puppy phase, dogs enter their prime years. From around one to seven years old, they’re full of vigor and ready for exciting adventures. Whether it’s fetching balls or going on long walks, they’re always up for some tail-wagging fun.
• Senior Dogs
As dogs age, they start to enter their golden years. At around seven years old, your dog will begin to slow down and embrace a more relaxed lifestyle. They might prefer leisurely strolls over energetic runs, and they’ll appreciate cozy naps in their favorite comfy spot.
Final Thoughts
Small-breed dogs tend to have a longer lifespan than large breeds, and so will have many more senior years ahead of them. During this time it is vital to keep your elderly dog’s weight under control and stick to regular vet checks to ensure your precious pooch can enjoy old age to the max.
Remember that Maven is here to help you with all your dog health and well-being needs! Our vets keep a constant eye on your pooch through the data collected by our devices, let you know how they’re doing, and share insights to improve their life – while also being available 24/7 to answer any questions of concerns you may have.
A wide range of services are included in a Maven membership – from fully custom nutrition and exercise plans, to ongoing care, medication management or emergency consults. You get over $3,000 of vet services starting at $25/month!
Maven Pet focuses on improving the quality of life of our pets with technology, using artificial intelligence (AI) to enable proactive pet care. By accurately collecting and monitoring pet data 24/7 and flagging any irregularities, Maven Pet empowers pet parents and veterinarians to stay ahead of potential health issues, ensuring the well-being and longevity of our beloved companions.
Proper hydration is essential for muscle function. Make sure your dog has access to clean, fresh water at all times.