Puggle is among the most popular hybrid dog breeds resulting from the cross-breeding of Beagles and Pugs. Their lifespan is therefore partly dictated by the predisposed health risks of the parents with the advantage of hybrid vigor.
What is a Puggle?
Puggle is a portmanteau of the words pug and beagle, which are the two breeds used to create this hybrid dog.
Puggles first became popular in the United States in the 1990s and have since then been bred all over the world.
These dogs are characterized by their short-snouted face, scrunchy nose, big eyes, and, of course, their cute wrinkly skin.
What is hybrid vigor?
It is the improved or increased function of any biological quality in a hybrid offspring. It is usually interpreted as improved fitness and health over either parent line.
The importance of heterosis or hybrid vigor has long been recognized in agriculture. In general, hybrid vigor manifests itself as improved growth rates, higher fertility, and greater disease resistance in the first generation of hybrids.
Let’s first understand the parents of Puggles;
Beagles:
Beagles are a relatively healthy and long-lived breed, with a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. Some common health problems seen in Beagles are obesity, epilepsy, hip dysplasia and intervertebral disc disease.
Pugs:
Pugs have a lifespan of 13-15 years on average. Some health concerns associated with Pugs are stenotic nares, patellar luxation, Pug dog encephalitis (PDE), and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease.
What is the lifespan of Puggles;
The average for the 2 is 13.5 years for the Beagles and 14 years for Pugs. The average of Pug’s and Beagles’ lifespans is are13.75 years but considering that hybrid dogs are on average likely to live 1.2 years more than their mix-breed parents, then the average lifespan of Puggles is 13.75+1.2=14.95 years or 15 years to be exact.
Puggles health risks:
Puggles are generally healthy dogs with an average lifespan of 15 years. However, like all dog breeds, they are susceptible to certain health conditions. Some of the health conditions that Puggles may be prone to include:·
Obesity:
Like many small breeds, Puggles are prone to obesity. It is important to monitor their weight and make sure they get enough exercise.
Intervertebral disc disease:
This is a condition that can cause the discs in your dog’s spine to rupture or bulge. It can be painful and may require surgery.
Patellar luxation:
This is a condition where the kneecap slides out of place. It can be painful and may require surgery.
Stenotic nares:
This is a condition where the nostrils are narrower than normal, which can make breathing difficult. Surgery may be required to correct this problem.
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease:
This is a condition that affects the hip joint and can cause pain and lameness. Surgery may be required to correct this problem.
As you can see, Puggles are prone to some health conditions that may shorten their lifespan. However, with proper care and treatment, they can still enjoy a long and happy life.
How to increase puggles’ lifespan:
The key to increasing a Puggles lifespan is to provide them with proper care and treatment.
Vet: Take your Puggle to the vet for regular checkups and vaccinations. This will help to catch any health problems early and get them treated before they become serious.
Diet: Feed your Puggle a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their age, weight, and activity level. Avoid giving them table scraps or food that is high in fat or calories.
Exercise: Make sure your Puggle gets plenty of exercise. A daily walk or play session will help to keep them healthy and fit.
Preventive care: Take steps to prevent your Puggle from getting health conditions in the first place. This includes spaying or neutering them, keeping them at a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking around them.
With proper care and treatment, Puggles can enjoy a long and happy life. Give your Puggle the best chance at a long life by taking good care of them.
Hi there! My name is Ben Domb, an owner of two pets and I am one of the co-founders of OurPets HQ. I have several years of experience as a pet care professional in the New England region having spent time in various roles including a stint at a veterinary hospital in Upstate New York, Syracuse area. I am a certified pet care professional and mostly spend my time researching pet nutrition and sharing my thoughts in various blogs and columns. With quarantine and COVID restrictions, I have been spending a lot of time a lot with my dogs and cat and loving it! I also run a small consulting business providing advice to parents on pet nutrition, and especially safe homemade options to try. You can reach me at ben@ourpetshq.com
German Shepherds are an adorable dog breed that is popular among many families globally. Known for its intelligence and muscle, the German Shepherd or GSD is extremely loyal and protective of its owners. The dog breed’s temperament is something to admire!
So, how long do German Shepherds live?
That is a question that many dog lovers circumvent when adopting a GSD pup. In fact, I do not like thinking about it either before the inescapable come to pass. But since that’s what it is ‘inevitable’, it is wise to know your GSD buddy’s lifespan so you can maintain its health.
Before we go further,
Some Quick Stats About the GSD
Did you know that the German Shepherd has been ranked at the 2nd position of the most popular dogs in the U.S. for the past 10 years? It also has been in the top 10 for decades.
Size: Large dog breed
Breed Group: Herding
Type: Purebred
Coat: Medium-length double coat
Height: 60 to 65 cm (male); 55 to 60 cm (female)
Weight: 30 kg to 65 kg (male); 22 to 32 kg (female)
Litter Size: approx. 8 pups
Colours: Black, Sable, Black & Red, Grey, Grey, and Black & Silver
Other names: Deutsche Schaferhunde, Alsatians
Temperament: Intelligent, Alert, Obedient, Confident, Loyal, Curious, and Brave
Average puppy price (USD): $300 to $900
As you can see, there is one stats missing above and it is what we pay close attention to.
How Long Dog German Shepherds Live?
On average, the German Shepherd has a lifespan of 12 years. However, nearly half of the breed dies between 10 and 13 years. Just like with any other dog breed, health plays a significant role when it comes to a German Shepherd’s lifespan. As such, some may live longer while others have a short lifespan and die younger or earlier.
The uncontrollable factors that affect your German Shepherd’s life expectancy include heredities or injury. But the good news with all this is that there are things you can do to boost the span and excellence of your German Shepherd’s lifespan.
Check out the table below for detailed info on GSDs life expectancy:
Age (years)
Death Rate (%)
Below 9 years
17%
9 years
8%
10 years
9%
11 years
10%
12 years
17%
13 years
10%
14 years
8%
Beyond 14 years
20%
Table: Age at which most German Shepherds die
What Do German Shepherds Usually Die From?
Generally, German Shepherds are a hale and hearty dog breed with a sweet life expectancy. But they do have some health issues that tend to claim their lives. And while they might be not curable, that does not mean that you overlook the conditions as they can be lethal.
In this section, we shall look at the primary causes of death in German Shepherd pups and adults in detail.
6+ Primary Causes of Death in German Shepherd Pups
During their young years, puppies are still emotionally immature, innocent, and adventurous. At the age of 9 and 18 months, German Shepherd puppies are difficult to control, especially if you have not sterilized your female GSD or neutered your male GSD.
German Shepherds can live out their standard life expectancy if they can survive this first year in their lives.
Some primary causes of death in German Shepherd pups include:
Parvovirus – It is a catching disease that is spread via direct contact with infested dog waste or dog and symptoms include severe diarrhoea, weight loss, vomiting, and more. It is common to pups under 6 months, rarely in 2+ years old. Effective vaccine is given at the age of 14-16 weeks.
Leptospirosis – Caused by the spirochete bacteria found common in wet areas with stagnant mud or water, this infective disease is transmitted by racoons, domestic animals and rats. Your GSD pup can be infected via drinking contaminated water or contact with infected urine. See your vet on this.
Hypoglycemia – This disease causes a significant drop in blood sugar levels in German Shepherd pups less than 5 months leading to distress. It can be fatal if overlooked.
Trauma –
Other causes of death in German Shepherd puppies include falls, desertion in animal shelters, getting lost, dog fights, lacerations from adventures, and even worse, car accidents.
6 Primary Causes of Death in German Shepherd Adults
Cancer – This is the leading cause of death in adult German Shepherds, especially in their golden years. While some cancers are curable via surgical removal, others need chemotherapy but it is better off if they are discovered earlier.
Bloat – This is a condition where your German shepherd’s stomach is filled with air after eating and is extremely fatal. It results from feeding him too much food at once. To prevent this, split his meals into several smaller meals throughout the day.
Hemangiosarcoma – Ranked as the most common disease in German shepherd breed that can cause death, this refers to the cancer of the spleen that causes bleeding and exhaustion.
Osteosarcoma – Also known as bone cancer, this disease causes micro fractures in your German Shepherd which can result in catastrophic failure of the bone that is affected.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy – This disease causes your German Shepherd’s heart to enlarge while the cardiac muscle walls continue to thin which causes congestive heart failure or abrupt demise.
Gastric Dilation & Volvulus – This is a condition where your German Shepherd’s stomach bloat and twist causing a fatal fluid and electrolyte imbalances, toxicity from organ death, and heart irregularities.
How to Extend the Lifespan of a German Shepherd
Although German Shepherds are prone to a host of conditions which can cause an early death or shorten their life expectancy, there are things that can extend it. This is where your effort plays the part of making sure that he lives happily and longer with optimal health.
So, how can you prolong the life expectancy of your German Shepherd canine buddy?
Buy from a scrupulous dog breeder
There are lots of unscrupulous breeders in the market that in there just for the money. So, make sure that the breeder you buy your German Shepherd from is a reliable one. Conduct in-depth research before spending a dollar for:
AKC documentation
Pup and parents health history paperwork
Health standards of their workplaces
Also, a responsible breeder will never allow you to carry your pup home unless he is 8+ weeks.
Ensure that he gets regular exercises
We all know that German Shepherds are bred to be energetic and active canines which mean they need to burn off this energy via regular exercises. As such, makes sure that they get sufficient exercise such as walks, playing with toys, hiking, or running.
This should be done for at least an hour per day.
Check their joint health
Joint problems are amongst the common conditions facing German Shepherds health. They are working dogs, yes, but that does not mean burdening them with heavy work, especially at when 1-2 years old. Do not expose them to harsh impacts.
The dog breed is very healthy and muscular, but their maturity is gradual which means you have to be gentle on the joints. Consult your vet for your dog’s joint development.
Maintain a healthy weight
Did you know that surplus weight intensifies the risk of hereditary health issues and injury for your dog? Yes, it does! So, make sure that you monitor your German Shepherd’s weight gain and consult your vet for more advice on the same.
Remember to be careful with the type of food your GSD consumes as age kicks in.
High-quality food
Like humans, dogs thrive well if you feed them with high-quality food which explains why they are fussy eaters. In fact, this changes with advance in age, personal palate, levels of activity, and likely allergies. Others even like homemade or raw dog foods more than kibbles.
While high-quality food comes with a high price tag, it saves your medical bills that might escalate due to health issues. It also helps improve your German Shepherd’s quality of life. So, ensure the dog foods you buy include proteins, veggies & fruits, carbs, vitamins & minerals at the top of the ingredients list.
Prevent bloating
Bloat is another health risk that German Shepherds are susceptible to, a life-threatening condition that occurs after eating causing air in the stomach. As mentioned earlier, it still amongst the leading causes of premature death in GSDs.
To prevent bloat, make sure your canine buddy daily diet is split into multiple small meals. If you dog love eating, utilize a slow feeder bowl to limit the eating speed. Another option can be exercising him immediately after he eats to him digest the food.
Other ways of extending your German shepherd’s life expectancy include:
Spaying or neutering your German Shepherd which is said to reduce the risk of death from transferrable diseases or distress.
Reduce the chances of distress by monitoring your kid’s interaction with the puppy, their exercise activities, using pet car seats, yoking a tiny dog bell, and using a leash with body harness.
Conclusion
German Shepherds are great companion dogs that you will enjoy having at home. Their adorable traits have made them prominence globally, especially in the U.S. And while they are susceptible to various health conditions, some fatal, their average life expectancy is 11 years.
Although their sloped backs are detrimental to their overall health which explains why their life expectancy is lower compared to others in the herding group, they can live longer!
Even before you write down a check to buy a German shepherd puppy, do your homework and ensure they come from a responsible breeder. That is the first move to making sure they live longer, in addition to diet & nutrition, joint health check-ups, preventing bloat, and more!
Hi there! My name is Ben Domb, an owner of two pets and I am one of the co-founders of OurPets HQ. I have several years of experience as a pet care professional in the New England region having spent time in various roles including a stint at a veterinary hospital in Upstate New York, Syracuse area. I am a certified pet care professional and mostly spend my time researching pet nutrition and sharing my thoughts in various blogs and columns. With quarantine and COVID restrictions, I have been spending a lot of time a lot with my dogs and cat and loving it! I also run a small consulting business providing advice to parents on pet nutrition, and especially safe homemade options to try. You can reach me at ben@ourpetshq.com
With origins in England, the French bulldog has delighted in an extended history of being a companion pooch. Also known as Frenchies, they gained the nickname after traveling alongside English lacemakers to France. They are reputable for their bat-eared look and odd beauty.
Today, these gorgeous small but largely-built dogs make excellent family companions, thanks to their personality. French bulldogs are smart, energetic, and playful with a short easy-care coat which makes grooming them easy. But how long do French bulldogs live? Most people adore their companionship but do not like to think about this fate.
I do not like it either but anyway…
How long do French Bulldogs live?
The life expectancy of French bulldogs depends on the type you have. Miniature French bulldogs have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years while the Standard French bulldog is approx. 12 to 14 years. We want to keep our canine buddies longer so we tend to dodge the inevitable before it happens.
However, it is what it is – inescapable! And though scary knowing your French bulldog’s life expectancy makes you cherish every moment and avoid what might hasten premature deaths.
Quick Statistics about the French bulldog
Did you know that many French bulldogs are born through artificial insemination? Frenchies are also sensitive to criticism and their squat frame plus bulbous head makes them awful swimmers.
Weight: 20 lbs. to 28 lbs. (male); 16 lbs. to 24 lbs. (female)
Litter Size: 3 pups (7 pups too but rare)
Colors: Brindle, White, Brindle & White, Tan, and Fawn
Life Expectancy: 10 to 14 years
Other names: Frenchie(s), Clown dog, or frog dog
Temperament: Alert, Smart, Calm, Patient, Affectionate, Active, and Sociable
Average puppy price (USD): $1,500 to $3,000
Today, we focus on the life expectancy of a French bulldog, factors affecting their lifespan, major death causes, and how to extend Frenchie’s life expectancy.
Which Factors Affect French Bulldogs Life Expectancy?
As it is with any dog breed out there, French bulldogs are susceptible to several health issues as compared to other dog breeds. In general, both miniature and standard Frenchies probability of health problems are above what is usual than most pooch breeds.
From upper tract disorders resulting from their flat-faced facial structure to overheating during hot weather workouts, stress, and anxiety, these issues can cut a Frenchie’s lifespan significantly. We shall discuss this in detail below.
Just remember that Frenchies are prone to hereditary diseases that shorten their lives and there is nothing you can do about it because they are uncontrollable. You can only give a healthy living.
What Do French bulldogs Usually Die From?
Generally, French bulldogs are a healthy dog breed with a good lifespan but are prone to some disorders that tend to shorten their life expectancy. Unfortunately, most of these conditions cannot be cured, but they tend to be life-threatening if not taken care of.
So, we have divided this section of the diseases that French bulldogs die from into two ages: puppies and adults. As such, you will know how to manage your Frenchie’s health based on their age.
5+ Main Causes of Death in French bulldog Pups
French bulldog pups suffer from a condition called Fading Puppy Syndrome where pups mysteriously start to fail and die within a few days of birth. This disorder is poorly understood though breeders try to save as many pups as possible.
However, being born with an incomplete immune system has been noted as the culprit for pups dying some days after birth. So, which are the other main causes of death in French bulldog puppies?
Parvovirus – French bulldog pups (6 months) can transmit this infection from an infected pooch or coming into contact with the feces of an infected animal. Symptoms include severe diarrhea, inflamed eye and mouth tissue, weight loss, vomiting, pain, and dehydration.
Leptospirosis – The disease is caused by the spirochete bacteria found in damp regions with still mud or water. French bulldog pups can be infected via drinking contaminated water or coming into contact with infected animal’s urine. Make sure your pup is vaccinated for this disease.
Hypoglycemia – Common in French bulldog puppies aged less than 5 months, this results from significant drops in the pup’s blood sugar levels which leads to anxiety. If ignored, it can become fatal.
Distress – As seen above (#3), hypoglycemia leads to anxiety or distress which can be life-threatening if overlooked. If you have kids, monitor how they play with your Frenchie puppy so they do not injure him by being too coarse.
IVDH – Also known as Hansen Type 1 Intervertebral Disc Herniation, this spinal disorder is said to affect Frenchies at a young age than thought earlier. This study revealed that thoracolumbar & cervical IVDH medium ages were 4 years & 4 ½ years, respectively.
Puppies, in general, can also die from accidents such as falling while playing (especially with kids), being hit by cars, falling down the stairs, or in case of collisions while being transported in vehicles.
6 Main Causes of Death in French bulldog Adults
Unlike their puppies, French bulldog adults are susceptible to some diseases that are associated with old age. Here are the main causes of death in French bulldog adults:
Heat Stress – A non-fever hyperthermia, this is a life-threatening condition in French bulldogs that results from excessive play under hot weather. Compared to other pooches, Frenchies have poor heat-dissipation mechanisms which make their dense bodies preserve lots of heat and cannot cool it.
Signs of hyperthermia include inflamed gums, ataxia, extreme panting, unconsciousness, and irregular rate. So, make sure there is enough air circulation, a kiddie pool, plenty of cool water, and areas with shades.
Cancer – French bulldogs are susceptible to mast cell cancer and other brachycephalic dogs. The cells are useful in pooches as they release histamines and enzymes that attack and destroy parasites.
The symptom for mast cell cancer includes a lump or bump on your Frenchie’s skin, anywhere including the penis. If the tumor is not removed, the condition is fatal so you need to regularly check your dog’s skin.
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome – This is a respiratory disorder, a collective term for the deformities in the upper airway of the soft palate or nose. Due to their flattened face, they can develop trouble breathing or pass little or insufficient air. The syndrome leads to irritation of the airway or strains of the heart due to increased struggle to breathe well.
Trauma – Just like their pups, adult French bulldogs are predisposed to trauma due to lifestyle factors. From jumping on & off sofas in the house to dropping down the stairs and interacting with kids, they can get injured leading to trauma and slow death.
Brain Disorder – This is a brain tumor disease in Frenchies is caused by glioma that begins in the brain’s supporting cells. It comprises gliobastomamultiforme, astrocytomas, and oligodendrogliomas. Its inability to remain unnoticed even with numerous tests makes the disorder perilous.
Spinal Disorder – Like herniated disks, French bulldogs are distinctively prone to back problems. This is, especially, due to their short hind legs and coiled tails which leads to defects during birth. The birth defects, in return, can lead to spine injury in your Frenchie.
While French bulldogs are susceptible to many health problems but these tend to be ranked among the life-threatening ones. Others also have an effect on your Frenchie’s lifespan, but not as much as the featured ones in our list.
Despite their popularity as home pets, I personally would not advise you to take a French bulldog as a family pet. Why so, you may ask? That is because they are susceptible to many health disorders that can significantly shorten their lifespan. In addition, they are expensive to buy and even take care of nutritionally and medically.
How to Extend the Lifespan of a French bulldog
If you feel that you must adopt or purchase a French bulldog as a family pet regardless of the health disorders mentioned above, then I have no objection. And while they are predisposed to factors that tend to shorten their life expectancy, there are things you can do to extend it.
What you are asking yourself right now is how to make your French bulldog longer, right? Well, here is how you can help your Frenchie live longer and happier:
Buy from a responsible breeder
French bulldogs are a popular breed which means the chances of finding unscrupulous breeders on the market are quite high. As such, do your homework and find a responsible breeder and you can tell that if he refuses you to take home a pup less than 8 months old.
He also should provide info on:
Health history of the pup and its parents
AKC certification
Work health standards
Feed them a high-quality diet
You Frenchie’s health depends on the nutrition he gets. Make sure your pooch eats high-quality dog foods that contain animal-based protein, vitamins & minerals, carbs, and probiotics. Of course, high quality comes with a high price tag, but your Frenchie’s health should come first.
Give them ample space
Naturally, French bulldogs are curious animals who want to explore. As such, you should not lock them in a crate or kennel for long. It is recommended that you give your Frenchie ample space where they can play and have fun to prevent distress.
Learn common threats
Frenchies are prone to heat stress which means they should not be out on a hot day for too long. Ensure there are shades, kiddie pools, and give them cold, filtered drinking water after exercise. You should also maintain good hygiene and keep them away from large water bodies as he does not know how to swim.
Another concern is their breathing which must also be checked as they are in the brachycephalic group of dogs. Make sure they have no trouble breathing. Learning common threats helps you know what to do in case of emergencies.
Vaccinations
Due to being predisposed to many health problems, your French bulldog should have regular vet visits for checkups. Make sure he sees the vet at least after every 3 months (or what your vet recommends) for treatments and diagnostic tests.
A blood panel checkup is especially vital so you can give the endorsed vitamins and supplements.
Training & Exercise
Training comes in handy in extending your French bulldog’s life expectancy. How? With correct training, your Frenchie is prevented from occasional runaways which might lead to being lost, or even worse, car accidents. Begin with common commands from the pup stage and he will obey.
Frenchies are active dogs which means you have to keep them mentally and physically engaged. While they are susceptible to breathing problems, it does not mean they should not exercise. Just make sure it approx. 40 minutes thrice a day.
Additional methods of extending your French bulldog’s life expectancy
Although there are lots of debates around this practice, spaying or neutering your French bulldog reduces the risk of infections that shorten your Frenchie’s life expectancy and add 2 years. Sterilizing your female Frenchie avoids mammary and uterine cancer. Frenchie males, on the other hand, are safe from testicular cancer, roaming, prostate disorders, and reduce aggression.
Another method is monitoring your French bulldog’s activities to prevent common accidents that lead to trauma. These two measures are quite beneficial.
FAQs
Why are French bulldog pups so expensive?
Purebred French bulldogs are so expensive because of the expenses incurred when breeding a Frenchie. As we mentioned, most of them are born via artificial insemination and C-section which we all know how costly ($1,000 to $3,000) it is even for humans (C-S). Add that to maintenance cost and training.
What is the oldest living French bulldog?
Last I checked some French bulldogs have lived up to 18 years of age, healthy and sound! Do not have naive prospects of your Frenchie’s lifespan. Instead, do everything you can to extend his life expectancy.
Conclusion
A healthy French bulldog should have an average of 10 years as a confidant companion. Their adorable traits make them incredible family pets but they are prone to certain health issues that tend to shorten their life expectancy. From factors such as lifestyle, genetics, exercise, and diet, affect your Frenchie’s potential lifespan.
To make sure that your French bulldog lives longer, consider his genetics, buy from a reputable and responsible breeder, exercise him regularly, and feed him with a high-quality nutritious diet. You also protect them from falls to avoid trauma, give cool water and avoid extended plays under hot weather, plus have him checked regularly for cancer symptoms like lumps on the skin.
Hi there! My name is Ben Domb, an owner of two pets and I am one of the co-founders of OurPets HQ. I have several years of experience as a pet care professional in the New England region having spent time in various roles including a stint at a veterinary hospital in Upstate New York, Syracuse area. I am a certified pet care professional and mostly spend my time researching pet nutrition and sharing my thoughts in various blogs and columns. With quarantine and COVID restrictions, I have been spending a lot of time a lot with my dogs and cat and loving it! I also run a small consulting business providing advice to parents on pet nutrition, and especially safe homemade options to try. You can reach me at ben@ourpetshq.com
