• Question: Why do small dogs live longer than large dogs??

    Asked by sarah to Jean on 22 Nov 2012.
    • Photo: Jean Bourke

      Jean Bourke answered on 22 Nov 2012:

      Hi,

      I actually didn’t know that they did but I looked it up and you’re right. Small dogs breeds love longer than large ones. Apparently it’s the weight not the height that matters. I don’t honestly know but I would say that it is probably something to do with their hearts. Dogs can have quite problematic hearts.

      Pity you didn’t ask yesterday coz I was the vet’s last night getting my cat vaccinated and I could have asked her. I’ll ring her and see what she says and get back to you later. I hope that’s ok.

      Really good question by the way.

Comments

  • Photo: Jean

    Jean commented on :

    Ok, I rang the vet.

    She said that it’s because as the dog’s body get’s bigger the organs do not necessarily increase in size proportionally. As a result a large dog’s organs may be under more strain than a small dogs because they are not big enough. This means they age faster and so die younger.

    I did know any of this before today. Thanks for the great question!