The main factors that affect the life expectancy of dogs are as follows:
I. Genetic factors
Different breeds of dogs will have greater differences in life expectancy due to genetic differences. Some breeds may be born with certain genetic diseases that can affect the health and lifespan of the dog. For example, large dog breeds such as the Great Dane and St Bernard are often prone to diseases such as hip dysplasia and heart disease, which may lead to their relatively short lifespan. Some small dog breeds, such as Chihuahuas and Pomeranians, on the other hand, usually have a relatively long lifespan.
2. Diet and Nutrition
- Balanced diet: Providing a balanced diet for your dog is the key to its health and longevity. High quality dog food should contain the right amount of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Choose the right dog food for your dog’s age, weight, activity level and special health needs. Meanwhile, you can add some fresh vegetables, fruits and meat to enrich your dog’s diet.
- Control the amount of food: Avoid overfeeding to prevent your dog from becoming obese. Obesity will increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, joint disease, etc. in dogs, thus shortening their life span. You can follow the recommended feeding amount on the dog food package and make appropriate adjustments according to your dog’s actual condition.
- Fresh water: Make sure your dog has fresh, clean drinking water at all times. Water is very important for the dog’s body metabolism, digestion and thermoregulation.
III. Exercise and Exercise
- Moderate Exercise: Provide your dog with the right amount of exercise according to its breed, age and health condition. Exercise can help dogs maintain a healthy weight, enhance muscle strength, and improve cardiovascular function and immunity. Take your dog for a walk, run or play every day to meet their exercise needs. However, be careful to avoid over-exercise to avoid damage to your dog’s joints and body.
- Outdoor activities: Allow your dog to have enough time outdoors to get in touch with nature. The ultraviolet rays of the sun can help dogs synthesise vitamin D and promote calcium absorption, which is beneficial to the health of dogs’ bones. At the same time, outdoor activities also allow dogs to socialise and reduce stress and anxiety.
IV. Daily Care
- Regular check-ups: Take your dog to the vet for regular check-ups to detect and treat potential health problems in a timely manner. It is recommended that a comprehensive physical examination be conducted at least once a year. Older dogs or dogs with chronic illnesses may require more frequent physical examinations.
- Oral care: Keeping your dog’s mouth clean and brushing regularly can prevent oral diseases such as calculus and gingivitis. Oral diseases not only affect your dog’s appetite and quality of life, but can also lead to other health problems.
- Hair care: Brush your dog’s hair regularly to keep it clean and tidy. This reduces the incidence of tangles, skin diseases and improves blood circulation to the skin. According to the length and breed of your dog’s hair, choose the right combing tools and care methods.
- Deworming and vaccination: Deworm and vaccinate your dog according to your veterinarian’s recommendations to prevent parasitic infections and infectious diseases. Regular deworming can protect your dog’s health, and vaccination can improve your dog’s immunity and prevent serious diseases.
V. Psychological factors
- Care and companionship: Dogs are social animals and need the care and companionship of their owners. Establishing a good relationship with your dog and giving them enough attention and interaction can make your dog feel happy and satisfied and help prolong its life.
- Avoid stress: Minimise your dog’s stress and anxiety. Avoid changing the living environment frequently, overtraining or punishing your dog. Provide a stable and comfortable living environment for your dog so that they can feel safe and relaxed.
VI. Living environment
- Living environment: Provide a clean, comfortable and safe living environment for your dog. Keep the room well ventilated and at a suitable temperature. Avoid exposing your dog to toxic substances, dangerous objects and sharp objects.
- Social Environment: Allow your dog to have enough socialisation opportunities to interact with other dogs and humans. Socialising can help dogs develop good behaviour and character and reduce loneliness and stress. However, be careful to choose a safe and healthy socialising place to avoid your dog contracting diseases or getting injured.
