The Bernese Mountain Dog is a popular breed of dog. However, before getting one, you should know that this dog has a short life expectancy compared to other large, bulky dogs, even if they are raised in excellent conditions. So, why doesn’t a Bernese Mountain Dog live long?
Are there some ways to help lengthen their lifespan? Ensure you know some possible health complications these dogs are at risk of having before bringing them home.
How Long Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Live?
Dogs are expected to live for about 11 to 12 years. But the Bernese Mountain Dog only has an average life span of eight years. I know! Their life is relatively short, unlike other canines. But don’t be saddened about this because you can still do something to help them live longer.
Why is a Bernese Mountain Dog Lifespan So Short?
You might be wondering about the several possible reasons Bernese Mountain Dog has only limited on this planet.
Generally, dogs that were bred to be bulky tend to have a shorter life expectancy. Giant breeds, like Bernese, are at risk of having mobility and bones problems like cruciate ligament rupture, hip dysplasia, and arthritis. These conditions can cause extreme pain to the dogs and may lead to difficulty walking.
As the pain level worsens and they lose the ability to walk, some owners don’t have a choice but to euthanize their pet. They don’t want their pets to suffer and experience much more pain.
But still, the primary cause of their short existence is cancer. Based on a study, Bernese Mountain Dog is among the breeds of dogs with the highest mortality rate due to cancer (more than 20%). Cancers are hereditary and are very prevalent in dogs. Common types of cancer in Bernese dogs include:
Aside from cancer and mobility problems, they may also suffer from bloat, heart disease, and kidney issues. These could potentially decrease your dog’s lifespan as well.
Oldest Living Bernese Mountain Dog
To give you a little encouragement regarding this breed – there’s a report that a Bernese Mountain Dog can still live longer than the expected lifespan. A woman in Germany who goes by Verena Wulf stated that Penny, her Bernese dog, has lived for 25 years. Unsurprisingly, her hearing and sight have slowly faded, and she could hardly walk.
Regardless, the dog can still go on a few little walks and find the way home independently. What a brave and robust dog indeed!
How to Make It Live Longer?
Your dog is also a member of the family, and most people will do anything to spend more time with them. Though there is no assurance that your pet will live longer than its average life expectancy, nevertheless, it’s not too late to try. If you still want to have a Bernese mountain puppy, take note of the following tips:
Keeping your Bernese mountaineer healthy
Canines are very susceptible to weight-gain problems, so they must maintain a balanced diet. You can feed them organic and chemical-free food and avoid overfeeding them.
Also, while feeding the Berners, take note of the environment and temperature. Giving them warm fluids during cold weather is highly appreciated. Since Bernese Mountain Dogs are energetic dogs, provide them with plenty of exercise. Take them out regularly for a walk and even jogs from time to time.
Visit The Vet Regularly
Regularly bringing your dog to the vet is the best practice to maintain its shape. Remember to watch out for any changes in his behavior since this breed is prone to various hereditary illnesses. Look out for some symptoms of swelling or any physical changes.
The more frequent you visit your vet, the higher the chance of diagnosing these problems before any issues worsen and shorten your dog’s lifespan.
Detect Early Signs of Cancer
According to the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America, detecting early cancer symptoms in Berners can help raise the chance of its survival. Signs like:
- Difficulty breathing
- Stiffness
- Loss of stamina
- Bleeding
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty walking or moving
- Inflammations
Neuter the Girls
Based on a study in England, neutered females live longer compared to neutered male dogs. Ask the vet regarding the right age to neuter your female pup since sterilizing them at a young age can lead to some medical and behavioral issues.
Find the Best Breeder
Making an effort to locate the best breeder is also crucial. A healthy, well-adjusted, fun-loving, and energetic dog will live for a long time. It will help if you do some research on the breeder that you choose – they must be trustworthy and have a higher reputation as a breeder.
Final Thoughts
Regardless of the lifespan of your Bernese Mountain dog, you must give him the love he deserves and enjoy the time with them. You are his hooman, his family, so you must do everything you can to provide them the happy, healthy life he deserves.
