When looking for a dog to welcome into your home, you will look at all the different dog breeds. But have you thought about the lifespan of each dog breed, and you might be wondering which are the dogs with shortest lifespan? Some dogs will live shorter or longer lives, but here in this article, we take a look at 15 dogs with the shortest lifespan.
The average lifespan of a dog is between 10 and 15 years. Generally, larger dogs have a shorter lifespan. However, numerous factors can affect a dog's lifespan, including genetics, health issues, environment, diet, exercise, and other lifestyle options.
It is generally very large dogs with the shortest lifespan. They tend to grow quickly, which puts pressure on their elbows and hips and can cause long-term joint issues. Their large frame often causes heart issues and disease. Their deep chests make them more at risk of bloat. They are also more prone to certain cancers, like osteosarcoma. Poor breeding practices can also make some dogs prone to genetic conditions that shorten their lifespan.
So, which breeds have the shortest lifespans? Here are some of the dog breeds with potentially very short lifespans.
The Dogue de Bordeaux has one of the shortest lifespans, between 5 and 8 years. These large dogs are loyal and affectionate to their family. However, they are prone to several genetic conditions that can have a significant impact on their longevity. Conditions they suffer from include dilated cardiomyopathy (a heart condition), lymphoma, and severe hip dysplasia. They are also prone to bloat due to eating their food too fast.
The English Mastiff is another mastiff breed with the shortest lifespan. The lifespan of an English Mastiff is about 6 to 10 years. It is one of the heaviest breeds, and they are also susceptible to heart conditions, cancers such as osteosarcoma, joint issues like hip dysplasia, and bloat like the Dogue de Bordeaux. Mastiff puppies grow quickly, and this can put pressure on their joints.
Mastiffs breeds do generally have lower-than-average lifespan. The bullmastiff has an average lifespan of between 7 to 9 years. Again, they are susceptible to cancers, joint dysplasia, and cardiac issues. Choosing a puppy from a responsible breeder is a good way to try and avoid these genetic issues by ensuring the parents have had a genetic screening.
A cane corso generally lives between 8 to 10 years. They are companion and guarding dogs and are another large breed of dog. They suffer from potential joint issues, eye issues, and thyroid issues. They are thought to have been bred for war by the Romans. Some experts believe this breed should be banned.
Another Mastiff breed that lives 8 to 10 years, an average lifespan that is slightly higher than other mastiffs. This breed has issues such as bloating and hip. In Spain, this breed was used extensively for guarding livestock against wolves.
Another breed with the shortest lifespan is the Neapolitan mastiff. This large, powerful guard dog is closely related to the Cane Corso and has an average lifespan of 7 to 9 years. Again, due to their large size, they are prone to digestive, skin, and joint issues.
One breed you would not expect to be a mastiff is the Great Dane. The Great Dane is a very large dog and due to their size is prone to bloat, cardiomyopathy, and joint issues. They have a relatively low average dog lifespan of between 7 and 10 years. That said they are often very loving companions.
This large dog breed has a thick coat of hair bred to look like a lion's mane! Due to their size, they are prone to cardiac issues, osteosarcoma, hip dysplasia, and bloat. Ensuring they have an ideal diet and plenty of exercise can help these dogs stay in good shape. The breed is known for their gentle nature and serene patience.
Another large and fluffy dog, these lovely and energetic dogs generally have a lifespan of between 6 to 9 years, being vulnerable to heart conditions, certain cancers, and hip and elbow problems.
This large, gentle dog breed generally lives 8 to 10 years. The Newfoundland is susceptible to subvalvular aortic stenosis and hip dysplasia. Managing their obesity risk is very important for this breed. The Newfoundland breed is outgoing, intelligent, and curious.
Another 5 Dogs with Shortest Lifespans are the
11. Saint Bernard at 8–10 years
12. Great Pyrenees at 10–12 years
13. Irish Wolfhound at 6–8 years
14. Rottweiler at 8–10 years
15. Anatolian Shepherd at 11–13 years
You will have noticed smaller breeds do not make it onto the top 15 dogs with the shortest lifespans. As they have smaller bodies, they are less likely to suffer from heart, joint, and digestive issues. These are the issues that large breeds tend to have problems with.
There are key ways you can help improve the average dog's lifespan. You should purchase puppies from a responsible and ethical breeder who has checked the dog's parents and puppies for potential hereditary conditions.
When your puppy comes home, take them to scheduled vet checkups and their vaccinations. Provide your puppy with a balanced, healthy diet, plenty of exercise, and mental enrichment. Weight management is also key.
So, if you are wondering what dog has the shortest lifespan? It is generally mastiff breeds and large other breeds like Bernese mountain dogs and Leonbergers that have shorter average dog lifespans. But these are beloved breeds, and for many, they are happy to spend time with their beloved pooch, however much shorter their lifespan might potentially be.
If you are thinking of buying a puppy from one of these breeds, then choose a responsible and ethical breeder and do your research to ensure you provide a healthy and active lifestyle for your dog! Check out the puppies on Puppy Hero!
24 July, 2025