Owning a dog is one of life’s greatest joys, but it’s also one of its most heartbreaking realities. While some lucky pups might live well into their teens, certain breeds face significantly shorter lifespans that can catch even experienced dog lovers off guard. Understanding which breeds have the shortest life expectancy isn’t about discouraging potential owners – it’s about helping them make informed decisions and prepare for the unique needs these magnificent creatures require.
You won’t believe the first spot on this list, #1 is so sad!! We also added a summary table at the end, and reveal what doctors recommend to keep your dog healthy!
17. Scottish Deerhound (8-10 years)
The elegant Scottish Deerhound looks like it stepped out of a medieval tapestry, but these graceful sighthounds carry the burden of shorter lifespans. Scottish Deerhounds resemble their Irish Wolfhound cousins, but they are a very different breed. They are excellent lure coursing dogs, as they were bred to hunt deer by running. The average life span for Scottish Deerhounds is 8-10 years. Their lean build and athletic nature make them prone to heart conditions and bone cancer.
These gentle giants require careful monitoring for cardiac issues and bloat throughout their lives. Their exercise needs are moderate but consistent, making them surprisingly suitable for experienced owners who understand their health limitations.
Common Health Concerns in Scottish Deerhounds
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cardiac Disease | High | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Bloat / GDV | Moderate | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Bone Cancer | Moderate | $8,000 – $15,000 |
💬 Expert Insight
“Scottish Deerhounds are an incredible breed, but they’re also prone to costly health conditions like bone cancer and cardiac disease. This is why insurance premiums for Deerhounds are often significantly higher than average. Owners should expect monthly premiums in the $80–$150 range, depending on coverage.”
— Dr. Emily Harris, DVM, Canine Health Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $85-$120 monthly for comprehensive coverage
16. Bloodhound (9-11 years)
Perhaps a favorite of those who enjoy tracking and search & rescue, Bloodhounds are excellent when it comes to using their noses. These large dogs have a life expectancy of 9-11 years. Their incredible scenting ability comes at a cost – their heavy, droopy ears create perfect environments for infections, while their deep chests make them vulnerable to life-threatening bloat.
Despite their shorter lifespan, Bloodhounds make devoted family companions when their health needs are properly managed. Regular ear cleaning and careful meal management become critical parts of their care routine.
Common Health Concerns in Bloodhounds
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Ear Infections | Very High | $800 – $1,500 |
| Bloat / GDV | High | $2,500 – $4,500 |
| Hip Dysplasia | High | $2,000 – $6,000 |
💬 Expert Insight
“Bloodhounds are wonderful companions, but their large size and floppy ears make them prone to chronic issues like hip dysplasia and ear infections. Because of this, insurance providers typically rate them as a higher-risk breed, with premiums often ranging from $70 to $120 per month. For owners, that investment can be the difference between affordable care and overwhelming bills.”
— Dr. Michael Reynolds, DVM, Veterinary Orthopedic Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $75-$110 monthly for comprehensive coverage
15. English Mastiff (7-10 years)
The average lifespan of the Mastiff is about 7 years although it’s not uncommon for some to live to 10–11 years. Major problems can include hip dysplasia and gastric torsion. Minor problems include obesity, osteosarcoma, and cystinuria. These massive guardians can weigh up to 230 pounds, putting tremendous strain on their joints and organs throughout their relatively short lives.
The English Mastiff’s gentle temperament makes them wonderful family dogs, but their size creates unique challenges. From finding appropriately sized equipment to managing their exercise needs during growth periods, everything becomes supersized with these gentle giants. Their susceptibility to heat stroke also requires careful environmental management.
Common Health Concerns in English Mastiffs
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Hip Dysplasia | Very High | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Gastric Torsion | High | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Heart Disease | High | $2,500 – $5,000 |
💬 Expert Insight
“English Mastiffs are gentle giants, but their size predisposes them to orthopedic problems and serious gastrointestinal issues like gastric torsion. Because treatments can be so costly, insurers often place Mastiffs in one of the highest premium brackets, with monthly costs commonly ranging between $90 and $160. For most families, insurance is the only realistic way to prepare for these potential expenses.”
— Dr. Sarah Whitman, DVM, Large Breed Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $90-$140 monthly for comprehensive coverage
14. Saint Bernard (8-10 years)
Typically, the lifespan of a Saint Bernard dog is 8-10 years. This loving, devoted breed often develops serious conditions such as heart issues, gastric dilatation-volvulus, eye abnormalities, bone cancer, and hip dysplasia at an early age, hence their short life expectancy. These alpine rescue dogs captured hearts worldwide, but their enormous size creates multiple health challenges that significantly impact their longevity.
Beethoven made the Saint Bernard a popular large breed, and they make great family companions. Unfortunately, they have a shorter life expectancy of 8-10 years. Their thick coats also make them vulnerable to overheating in warmer climates, requiring careful temperature management year-round.
Common Health Concerns in Saint Bernards
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Heart Disease | Very High | $3,500 – $6,000 |
| Bloat / GDV | High | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Hip Dysplasia | High | $2,000 – $6,500 |
💬 Expert Insight
“Saint Bernards are affectionate giants, but their size makes them especially vulnerable to heart disease, hip dysplasia, and bloat. Veterinary bills can quickly add up, which is why insurance premiums for this breed often range from $85 to $150 per month. For many Saint Bernard owners, coverage isn’t just helpful — it’s essential for managing long-term care.”
— Dr. Karen Mitchell, DVM, Large Breed Health Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $85-$125 monthly for comprehensive coverage
13. Bernese Mountain Dog (7-10 years)
Unfortunately, the Bernese Mountain dog – which can weigh up to 155 pounds and reach 27 inches in height – is among the many large breeds with a short life expectancy. Bernese Mountain Dogs have a lifespan of only 7-10 years. This is mainly because the Berner is susceptible to health issues such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), cancer, and blood disorders at an early age.
Another excellent companion that excels in the colder weather, Bernese Mountain Dogs resemble small bears. They have great temperaments and are devoted to their families. Like the Great Dane, however, the average life expectancy for this breed is 6-8 years. Their cancer rates are particularly concerning, with nearly half of all Berners developing some form of malignancy during their shortened lives.
Common Health Concerns in Bernese Mountain Dogs
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer | Very High | $8,000 – $20,000 |
| Hip Dysplasia | High | $2,500 – $6,000 |
| Bloat / GDV | High | $2,000 – $4,500 |
💬 Expert Insight
“Bernese Mountain Dogs are one of the most loving breeds, but unfortunately, they face some of the highest cancer rates of any dog. Treatment can be incredibly expensive, with some cases exceeding $15,000. Because of this, insurance providers usually set premiums for Berners between $85 and $150 per month. For owners, insurance often provides peace of mind knowing they can afford critical treatments if needed.”
— Dr. Laura Bennett, DVM, Canine Oncology Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $95-$150 monthly for comprehensive coverage
12. Bullmastiff (7-9 years)
The median age of death found by Adams et al., (2010) was 11 years and 3 months varying by breed with a wide varying median age at death across the Mastiff group including; Neapolitan Mastiff 2.33 years, Dogue de Bordeaux 3.83 years, Great Dane 6.5 years, Mastiff 6.83 years, Bull Mastiff 7.46 years and Tibetan Mastiff 11. Bullmastiffs combine the health challenges of both bulldogs and mastiffs, creating a perfect storm of potential issues that significantly shorten their already brief lives.
These powerful guardians were originally bred to catch poachers, but their brachycephalic features and massive build create respiratory and joint problems that require constant vigilance. Their loyalty and protective nature make every shortened year precious to their families.
Common Health Concerns in Bullmastiffs
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Breathing Issues | Very High | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Hip Dysplasia | High | $2,500 – $6,500 |
| Heart Disease | High | $3,000 – $6,000 |
💬 Expert Insight
“Bullmastiffs are strong, loyal protectors, but their short muzzles put them at high risk for breathing problems, especially in hot or humid climates. Combined with frequent hip and heart issues, medical bills can pile up quickly. Insurance premiums for Bullmastiffs often fall between $80 and $140 per month, reflecting the breed’s higher-than-average health risks.”
— Dr. James Carter, DVM, Brachycephalic Breed Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $100-$160 monthly for comprehensive coverage
11. Great Dane (6-8 years)
A 2024 UK study found the average life expectancy of the breed to be 10.6 years, compared to an average of 12.7 for purebreeds and 12 for crossbreeds. A 2005 Swedish study of insurance records found 83% of Great Danes died by the age of 10, higher than the overall rate of 35% of dogs dying by the age of 10. Dilated cardiomyopathy and many congenital heart diseases are also commonly found in the Great Dane, leading to its nickname: the heartbreak breed, in conjunction with its shorter lifespan.
Great Danes are one of the most popular large breeds around, and it’s unfortunate they’re one of the shortest living dog breeds with a life span of only 6-8 years. Although the time spent with them may be shorter, these dogs are wonderful companions until the very end. Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), is the greatest killer of Great Danes. To avoid bloat, a rest period of 40 minutes to one hour after meals is recommended before exercise.
Common Health Concerns in Great Danes
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV | Critical | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Heart Disease | Very High | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| Bone Cancer | High | $10,000 – $20,000 |
💬 Expert Insight
“Great Danes are gentle giants, but they face some of the most serious health risks of any breed, particularly bloat and heart disease. Bone cancer is also tragically common and extremely costly to treat. Because of these risks, Great Dane insurance premiums often range from $90 to $160 per month, making them one of the most expensive breeds to insure — but also one of the most important to cover.”
— Dr. Rachel Monroe, DVM, Large Breed Health Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $110-$180 monthly for comprehensive coverage
10. Caucasian Shepherd Dog (5-6 years)
Looking at the data published by the Dog’s Trust, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog has the shortest average life expectancy of 5.4 years. These massive guardian dogs from the Caucasus Mountains face extreme challenges due to their enormous size and the genetic bottlenecks created by their isolated breeding history. Their protective instincts are legendary, but their bodies simply cannot support their impressive frames for extended periods.
Originally bred to protect livestock from wolves and bears, these dogs can weigh over 200 pounds and stand nearly three feet tall. Their joint problems begin early, and their hearts struggle to pump blood through their massive bodies effectively.
Common Health Concerns in Caucasian Shepherd Dogs
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Heart Failure | Critical | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Joint Disease | Very High | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Respiratory Issues | High | $2,000 – $5,000 |
💬 Expert Insight
“Caucasian Shepherds are massive and powerful protectors, but their size comes with serious health risks — especially joint disease and heart failure. Treating these conditions can be extremely expensive, which is why insurers often place them in the highest premium brackets. Monthly insurance costs typically range between $100 and $170, making coverage almost essential for owners who want financial protection against sudden medical bills.”
— Dr. Alan Peters, DVM, Large & Guardian Breed Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $150-$250 monthly for comprehensive coverage
9. American Bulldog (7-8 years)
Indeed, four brachycephalic breeds (French Bulldog, English Bulldog, Pug and American Bulldog) that showed the shortest life expectancy at year 0 of all 18 breeds in our results are also reported with several predispositions to life-limiting disorders that occur early in life. English Bulldog was the earliest to reach the life expectancy of 1.5 years (year 9–10), followed by Boxer, French Bulldog and American Bulldog at year 10–11.
American Bulldogs face a unique combination of breathing difficulties, joint problems, and neurological issues that significantly impact their quality of life. Their muscular build and shortened airways create a cascade of health problems that require intensive management throughout their shortened lives.
Common Health Concerns in American Bulldogs
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Breathing Problems | Very High | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Neurological Issues | High | $4,000 – $10,000 |
| Joint Disease | High | $2,500 – $6,000 |
💬 Expert Insight
“American Bulldogs are energetic, affectionate companions, but they’re highly prone to respiratory challenges and neurological issues that can become extremely costly. Their joint problems also add long-term expenses. Because of these risks, monthly insurance premiums for American Bulldogs typically fall between $75 and $130, ensuring owners have protection against sudden and significant vet bills.”
— Dr. Megan Lawson, DVM, Canine Neurology & Orthopedic Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $120-$200 monthly for comprehensive coverage
8. Neapolitan Mastiff (7-9 years)
The Neapolitan Mastiff lifespan is just 7–9 years, much shorter than the average dog’s life. This short lifespan is because of their massive size and their propensity for health issues. Before bringing home a Neapolitan Mastiff puppy, consider investing in pet insurance so you can keep this giant breed healthy. The median age of death found by Adams et al., (2010) was 11 years and 3 months varying by breed with a wide varying median age at death across the Mastiff group including; Neapolitan Mastiff 2.33 years, Dogue de Bordeaux 3.83 years, Great Dane 6.5 years, Mastiff 6.83 years, Bull Mastiff 7.46 years and Tibetan Mastiff 11.
While many of the giant breeds suffer from a plethora of health problems, the Neapolitan Mastiff is perhaps in a league of its own, commonly suffering a wide range of ailments, and its large size will inflate any veterinary expenses proportionately. Those owners with the experience, space, and finances to accommodate this enormous beast can expect their Neo to have a life expectancy of around 8 to 10 years. Their wrinkled skin requires constant care to prevent infections, adding to their intensive maintenance needs.
Common Health Concerns in Neapolitan Mastiffs
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Heart Disease | Very High | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| Skin Infections | Very High | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Joint Problems | High | $3,000 – $7,000 |
💬 Expert Insight
“Neapolitan Mastiffs are majestic and loyal, but their large size and loose skin make them vulnerable to costly health conditions — especially heart disease, chronic skin infections, and severe joint problems. These risks drive insurance premiums higher, with most owners paying between $90 and $150 per month. For such a high-maintenance breed, insurance is often the best safeguard against overwhelming vet expenses.”
— Dr. Anthony Ramirez, DVM, Large & Guardian Breed Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $130-$220 monthly for comprehensive coverage
7. English Bulldog (7-9 years)
Compared to other breeds, many brachycephalic breeds (i.e., breeds of dogs with a short, flat face) had a relatively short life expectancy at age 0, with French Bulldog having the shortest at 4.53 (95% CI: 4.14–5.01) years, 2.86 years less than the value for English Bulldog (7.39 years; 95% CI: 7.08–7.69). English Bulldog was the earliest to reach the life expectancy of 1.5 years (year 9–10), followed by Boxer, French Bulldog and American Bulldog at year 10–11.
English Bulldogs epitomize the tragic consequences of extreme breeding for appearance over health. Their flattened faces create severe breathing difficulties that affect every aspect of their lives, from sleeping to exercising to simply staying cool on warm days.
Common Health Concerns in English Bulldogs
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Breathing Disorders | Critical | $4,000 – $10,000 |
| Spinal Issues | Very High | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Skin Problems | High | $1,500 – $3,500 |
💬 Expert Insight
“English Bulldogs are one of the most beloved breeds, but they’re also among the most medically fragile. Breathing disorders are extremely common and often require surgery, while spinal and skin issues can lead to recurring expenses. Because of this, insurers typically charge higher premiums — usually between $100 and $170 per month. For Bulldog owners, insurance isn’t just a safety net, it’s practically a necessity.”
— Dr. Olivia Grant, DVM, Brachycephalic Breed Health Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $140-$250 monthly for comprehensive coverage
6. Irish Wolfhound (6-8 years)
The not-so-great thing about the Irish wolfhound is their short lifespan, estimated to be only 6-8 years. They are more prone to health problems such as cancer (especially bone cancer), gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), heart diseases, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia. Considered to be the largest breed of dog by height, the Irish Wolfhound really is huge. Sadly this prehistoric-looking breed is among the shortest living dog breeds with a life span of 6-10 years.
These gentle giants were once the hounds of kings, but their towering height and lean build create unique vulnerabilities. Their hearts must work overtime to pump blood to their extremities, while their deep chests make them particularly susceptible to the deadly bloat that claims so many large breeds.
Common Health Concerns in Irish Wolfhounds
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Heart Disease | Critical | $4,500 – $9,000 |
| Bone Cancer | Very High | $12,000 – $25,000 |
| Bloat / GDV | High | $3,000 – $6,000 |
💬 Expert Insight
“Irish Wolfhounds are gentle giants with loving personalities, but they face some of the most severe health challenges of any breed. Heart disease and bone cancer are tragically common and extremely costly to treat. Because of these risks, monthly insurance premiums for Wolfhounds often range between $100 and $170. For most owners, this coverage is essential to manage the financial burden of such serious conditions.”
— Dr. Samuel Rhodes, DVM, Giant Breed Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $120-$190 monthly for comprehensive coverage
5. Pug (6-8 years)
Flat-faced dog breeds, including French Bulldogs and Pugs, have the shortest life expectancy, according to research. Flat-faced breeds, including French Bulldogs and Pugs, have the shortest life expectancy, a new study has found. Indeed, four brachycephalic breeds (French Bulldog, English Bulldog, Pug and American Bulldog) that showed the shortest life expectancy at year 0 of all 18 breeds in our results are also reported with several predispositions to life-limiting disorders that occur early in life.
Pugs suffer from a condition called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome that makes breathing a constant struggle. Their protruding eyes are vulnerable to injuries and corneal ulcers, while their compact bodies are prone to spinal problems and overheating.
Common Health Concerns in Pugs
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Breathing Issues | Critical | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Eye Problems | Very High | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Spinal Issues | High | $2,500 – $6,000 |
💬 Expert Insight
“Pugs are endlessly charming, but their flat faces make them prone to severe breathing problems, often requiring expensive surgery. On top of that, eye injuries and spinal issues are common and can mean frequent vet visits. Because of these risks, monthly insurance premiums for Pugs usually range from $70 to $120. For most owners, that investment provides peace of mind and long-term savings.”
— Dr. Hannah Collins, DVM, Small Breed & Brachycephalic Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $110-$180 monthly for comprehensive coverage
4. Boxer (8-10 years)
English Bulldog was the earliest to reach the life expectancy of 1.5 years (year 9–10), followed by Boxer, French Bulldog and American Bulldog at year 10–11. Boxers are particularly vulnerable to a heart condition called cardiomyopathy, which can strike without warning and prove fatal. Their energetic nature and athletic build might suggest robust health, but genetic predispositions create serious concerns.
These playful, loyal companions often hide their discomfort well, making early detection of health problems challenging. Their cancer rates are also concerning, with roughly one in three Boxers developing some form of malignancy during their lives.
Common Health Concerns in Boxers
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Heart Disease | Critical | $4,000 – $9,000 |
| Cancer | Very High | $8,000 – $20,000 |
| Hip Dysplasia | High | $2,000 – $5,000 |
💬 Expert Insight
“Boxers are playful, loyal, and full of personality — but they face some of the most serious health risks of any medium-to-large breed. Heart disease and cancer are particularly common, often leading to costly long-term treatments. Because of this, monthly insurance premiums for Boxers typically range from $85 to $140. For many families, coverage is the best way to protect both their dog’s health and their finances.”
— Dr. Melissa Hart, DVM, Canine Cardiology & Oncology Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $95-$150 monthly for comprehensive coverage
3. Dogue de Bordeaux (5-8 years)
Dogue de Bordeauxs, or French Mastiffs, are perhaps the shortest living dog breed in existence with a life expectancy of 5-8 years. What they lack in longevity, however, they make up for in their wonderful temperaments and easy care. Also known as French Mastiff or Bordeaux Mastiff, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a powerful Mastiff-type breed originating from France. The lifespan of a Dogue de Bordeaux is 5-8 years.
These magnificent French mastiffs were bred for power and strength, but their massive heads and shortened airways create breathing difficulties that impact every aspect of their lives. Their hearts must work exceptionally hard to support their muscular frames, leading to early cardiac failure.
Common Health Concerns in Dogue de Bordeaux
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Heart Failure | Critical | $5,000 – $12,000 |
| Breathing Problems | Very High | $3,500 – $8,000 |
| Joint Disease | High | $3,000 – $7,000 |
💬 Expert Insight
“The Dogue de Bordeaux is a powerful yet affectionate breed, but sadly, they’re highly prone to serious health issues like heart failure, respiratory difficulties, and joint disease. These conditions often require costly treatment, which is why insurance premiums for this breed are typically among the highest — usually between $95 and $160 per month. For owners, insurance is almost essential to manage the financial risks.”
— Dr. Caroline Hughes, DVM, Large & Giant Breed Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $160-$280 monthly for comprehensive coverage
2. French Bulldog (4-6 years)
Jack Russell Terrier (12.72 years; 95% CI: 12.53–12.90) and French Bulldog (4.53 years; 95% CI: 4.14–5.01) had the longest and shortest life expectancy at age 0, respectively. Compared to other breeds, many brachycephalic breeds (i.e., breeds of dogs with a short, flat face) had a relatively short life expectancy at age 0, with French Bulldog having the shortest at 4.53 (95% CI: 4.14–5.01) years.
French Bulldogs have become one of the most popular breeds worldwide, but their extreme flat faces create severe health challenges that dramatically shorten their lives. Their airways are so compressed that many require surgery just to breathe properly, while their spines are prone to devastating disc disease.
Common Health Concerns in French Bulldogs
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Breathing Surgery | Critical | $5,000 – $12,000 |
| Spinal Surgery | Very High | $6,000 – $15,000 |
| Eye Problems | High | $2,000 – $5,000 |
💬 Expert Insight
“French Bulldogs are one of the most popular breeds today, but also one of the most medically vulnerable. Many require expensive breathing or spinal surgeries during their lifetime, alongside frequent eye problems. Because of these risks, French Bulldogs usually fall into the highest insurance premium categories, with monthly costs ranging from $90 to $160. For most owners, coverage is the only way to manage these unpredictable expenses.”
— Dr. Stephanie Cole, DVM, Brachycephalic & Small Breed Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $150-$300 monthly for comprehensive coverage
1. Pomeranian (4.4 years)
However, the most vulnerable is the small Pomeranian, which is neither a hunting dog nor a farm dog, but often lives in urban environments with a lot of traffic. They have the shortest lifespan of just 4.4 years. This shocking statistic reflects the tragic reality that many Pomeranians fall victim to accidents rather than natural aging, but the breed also faces significant genetic health challenges.
Despite their tiny size, Pomeranians are prone to luxating patella, tracheal collapse, and dental issues that can dramatically impact their quality of life. Their small stature makes them vulnerable to injuries from seemingly minor incidents, while their thick coats can hide serious health problems until they become critical.
Their delicate bones are easily fractured, and their tiny airways can collapse under stress. Many Pomeranians also develop heart conditions early in life, further shortening their already brief time with their families.
Common Health Concerns in Pomeranians
| Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tracheal Collapse | Very High | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Heart Disease | High | $2,500 – $6,000 |
| Dental Disease | Very High | $1,000 – $3,000 |
💬 Expert Insight
“Pomeranians may be tiny, but they face some surprisingly big health challenges. Tracheal collapse and heart disease can be life-threatening and expensive, while dental disease is almost inevitable without proper care. Because of this, insurance premiums for Pomeranians generally range from $50 to $100 per month, making coverage a wise investment for long-term peace of mind.”
— Dr. Alicia Warren, DVM, Small Breed Specialist
**Pet Insurance Cost:** $80-$140 monthly for comprehensive coverage
Dog Breed Insurance Overview (USA based)
| Dog Breed | Health Concern | Risk Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scottish Deerhound | Cardiac Disease | High | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Bloat / GDV | Moderate | $2,000 – $4,000 | |
| Bone Cancer | Moderate | $8,000 – $15,000 | |
| Bloodhound | Ear Infections | Very High | $800 – $1,500 |
| Bloat / GDV | High | $2,500 – $4,500 | |
| Hip Dysplasia | High | $2,000 – $6,000 | |
| English Mastiff | Hip Dysplasia | Very High | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Gastric Torsion | High | $3,000 – $6,000 | |
| Heart Disease | High | $2,500 – $5,000 | |
| Saint Bernard | Heart Disease | Very High | $3,500 – $6,000 |
| Bloat / GDV | High | $2,500 – $5,000 | |
| Hip Dysplasia | High | $2,000 – $6,500 | |
| Bernese Mountain Dog | Cancer | Very High | $8,000 – $20,000 |
| Hip Dysplasia | High | $2,500 – $6,000 | |
| Bloat / GDV | High | $2,000 – $4,500 | |
| Bullmastiff | Breathing Issues | Very High | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Hip Dysplasia | High | $2,500 – $6,500 | |
| Heart Disease | High | $3,000 – $6,000 | |
| Great Dane | Bloat / GDV | Critical | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Heart Disease | Very High | $4,000 – $8,000 | |
| Bone Cancer | High | $10,000 – $20,000 | |
| Caucasian Shepherd | Heart Failure | Critical | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Joint Disease | Very High | $3,000 – $8,000 | |
| Respiratory Issues | High | $2,000 – $5,000 | |
| American Bulldog | Breathing Problems | Very High | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Neurological Issues | High | $4,000 – $10,000 | |
| Joint Disease | High | $2,500 – $6,000 | |
| Neapolitan Mastiff | Heart Disease | Very High | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| Skin Infections | Very High | $1,500 – $3,000 | |
| Joint Problems | High | $3,000 – $7,000 | |
| English Bulldog | Breathing Disorders | Critical | $4,000 – $10,000 |
| Spinal Issues | Very High | $3,000 – $8,000 | |
| Skin Problems | High | $1,500 – $3,500 | |
| Irish Wolfhound | Heart Disease | Critical | $4,500 – $9,000 |
| Bone Cancer | Very High | $12,000 – $25,000 | |
| Bloat / GDV | High | $3,000 – $6,000 | |
| Pug | Breathing Issues | Critical | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Eye Problems | Very High | $2,000 – $5,000 | |
| Spinal Issues | High | $2,500 – $6,000 | |
| Boxer | Heart Disease | Critical | $4,000 – $9,000 |
| Cancer | Very High | $8,000 – $20,000 | |
| Hip Dysplasia | High | $2,000 – $5,000 | |
| Dogue de Bordeaux | Heart Failure | Critical | $5,000 – $12,000 |
| Breathing Problems | Very High | $3,500 – $8,000 | |
| Joint Disease | High | $3,000 – $7,000 | |
| French Bulldog | Breathing Surgery | Critical | $5,000 – $12,000 |
| Spinal Surgery | Very High | $6,000 – $15,000 | |
| Eye Problems | High | $2,000 – $5,000 | |
| Pomeranian | Tracheal Collapse | Very High | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Heart Disease | High | $2,500 – $6,000 | |
| Dental Disease | Very High | $1,000 – $3,000 |
The Heartbreaking Reality
Scientists attribute this to the fact that large dogs age rapidly compared to their smaller counterparts due to the strain that their big bodies endure. Ultimately, this leads to them developing serious age-related conditions at an earlier age than smaller pups, impacting their overall longevity. The cruel irony is that many of these breeds with the shortest lifespans are also among the most beloved for their gentle, loyal natures.
There aren’t really any advantages to a shorter lifespan. Falling in love with larger breeds with the shortest life is just part of the package, and there’s nothing we can do about it. The heart wants what the heart wants. Understanding these realities helps potential owners make informed decisions about welcoming these special breeds into their hearts and homes.
These beautiful souls may not have the luxury of time, but they make every moment count with their unwavering devotion and gentle spirits. Can you imagine loving something so completely, knowing your time together will be measured in precious few years rather than decades?
🐾 Vet-Recommended Ways to Increase Dog Lifespan (Complete Checklist) for US Dog Breeds
Maintain a Healthy Weight – Obesity is one of the biggest lifespan reducers; keeping dogs lean lowers risk of joint issues, diabetes, and heart disease.
Balanced, High-Quality Diet – Feeding complete nutrition (not table scraps or low-quality food) supports long-term organ and joint health.
Regular Exercise – Daily walks and breed-appropriate activities improve cardiovascular health and prevent obesity.
Routine Vet Checkups – Annual (or bi-annual for older/at-risk breeds) exams allow early detection of heart disease, cancer, or organ problems.
Dental Care – Regular cleanings or brushing prevent gum disease, which is linked to heart and kidney problems.
Spay/Neuter (when appropriate) – Can reduce risks of certain cancers and reproductive diseases.
Genetic Screening & Responsible Breeding – Avoiding inbreeding and screening for hereditary conditions lowers the risk of passing on life-shortening illnesses.
Preventive Medications – Flea, tick, and heartworm preventives protect against deadly infections.
Early Intervention in High-Risk Breeds – Owners of breeds prone to bloat, heart disease, or cancer should be extra vigilant and consider preventive surgeries (e.g., gastropexy for bloat).
Stress Reduction & Mental Stimulation – Enrichment, play, and companionship reduce anxiety, which is tied to better long-term health.
Avoid Overbreeding for Appearance – Experts stress avoiding extreme brachycephalic (flat-faced) traits, as they reduce quality of life and lifespan.
Andrew Alpin from India is the Brand Manager of Doggo digest. Andrew is an experienced content specialist and social media manager with a passion for writing. His forte includes health and wellness, Travel, Animals, and Nature. A nature nomad, Andrew is obsessed with mountains and loves high-altitude trekking. He has been on several Himalayan treks in India including the Everest Base Camp in Nepal.
