Dogs have been man’s best friend for centuries. They come in all shapes and sizes, from small lap dogs to giant Great Danes, each with their own unique personalities and traits. But one thing that is universal among all breeds of dog is that they don’t live as long as humans do.
While the average lifespan for a human being in the United States is roughly 79 years, many dog breeds have an average lifespan of only 10-12 years. This means that some owners may not be able to share more than a dozen or so years with their beloved canine companions before having to say goodbye.
Read: 10 Dog Breeds With The Longest Lifespans
While it can be heartbreaking to lose a pet at such an early age, there are certain breeds of dogs which unfortunately have even shorter lifespans than others due to genetic predispositions or other factors.
Knowing which breeds these are can help potential owners plan ahead and make sure they are ready for what lies ahead when taking on these particular types of pets.
17Flat Coated Retriever: 10-12 years
The Flat-Coated Retriever is a highly intelligent and active dog breed that originated in the 19th century. They are loyal, loving, and friendly companions who love to please their owners. With an average lifespan of 10-12 years, these dogs can be a great choice for families looking for an energetic pet to share their lives with.
Flat-Coated Retrievers have generally good health but may suffer from certain hereditary diseases such as hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), elbow dysplasia and von Willebrand’s disease.
One of the main concerns is cancer, particularly hemangiosarcoma, which is a type of malignant tumor that affects the blood vessels. Flat-Coated Retrievers may also be susceptible to hip dysplasia, a genetic condition affecting the hip joint, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), a degenerative eye disease that can lead to vision loss.
Additionally, they may be prone to certain cardiac issues, such as subaortic stenosis and dilated cardiomyopathy. Responsible breeding practices, regular veterinary check-ups, a nutritious diet, exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can help mitigate the risk of these health conditions and ensure the overall well-being of a Flat-Coated Retriever.