Introduction:
Why do Bernese mountain dogs have a short lifespan? This is a question that many people who are thinking about getting this breed of dog ask. The answer, unfortunately, is not a simple one.
There are a number of factors that contribute to the shortened lifespan of Bernese mountain dogs. In this blog post, we will explore some of these factors and offer some tips on how you can help your Bernese live a long and healthy life.
Bernese Mountain Dogs: a Brief History
Origin of the Breed:
The Bernese mountain dog is a large-sized working dog that originates from the canton of Bern in Switzerland.
The breed was first mentioned in agricultural literature in 1577, and they were used as all-purpose farm dogs for herding, driving carts, and protecting property.
What they were Originally Bred for?
Bernese mountain dogs were originally bred to be versatile farm dogs. They were used for tasks such as herding livestock, pulling carts, and guarding property.
Popularity Today:
Bernese mountain dogs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States today. In 2018, they were the 23rd most popular breed according to the American Kennel Club’s registration statistics.
The Downside of the Bernese mountain dog’s Popularity
The High Cost of Ownership:
Owning a Bernese mountain dog can be expensive. They are a large breed, and require a lot of food. They also need regular grooming, which can add up over time.
In addition, they are prone to health problems, which we will discuss in more detail below.
The Health Problems Associated with the Breed:
Bernese mountain dogs are susceptible to a number of health problems, including hip and elbow dysplasia, cancer, and bloat.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are both hereditary conditions that can cause joint pain and mobility problems.
Cancer is the leading cause of death in Bernese mountain dogs, and they are also susceptible to bloat, a potentially fatal condition that occurs when the stomach twists or fills with gas.
The High Cost of Vet Care:
The high cost of vet care is another downside to owning a Bernese mountain dog. Because they are prone to health problems, Bernese owners can expect to spend a lot on vet bills over the course of their dog’s life.
In fact, according to the website Breeding Business, the average cost of vet care for a Bernese mountain dog over its lifetime is $4,500-$5,500.
Why do Bernese Mountain Dogs have a Short Lifespan?
The average lifespan of a Bernese mountain dog is only 7 years. This is shorter than the average lifespan of most other breeds of dogs.
There are several reasons for this:
1: Larger size:
- One reason for the short lifespan of Bernese mountain dogs is their large size. Large breed dogs tend to have shorter lifespans than small breed dogs. This is because they are more prone to health problems associated with their size.
For example, large breed dogs are more likely to develop joint problems such as hip dysplasia. They are also more likely to suffer from heart conditions and respiratory problems.
2: Popularity:
- Another reason for the short lifespan of Bernese mountain dogs is their popularity. Because they are one of the most popular breeds of dogs, there is a high demand for them. This means that many Bernese mountain dogs are bred without much thought for their health or temperament.
Some unscrupulous breeders will even deliberately inbreed Bernese mountain dogs in order to produce puppies that look like the ideal specimen, without regard for the health of the parents or the puppies themselves.
This can lead to genetic defects and health problems that shorten the lifespans of these dogs.
- Finally, another reason why Bernese mountain dogs have a short lifespan is because they are prone to certain types of cancer.
One study found that almost 50% of all Bernese mountain dog deaths were due to cancerous tumors.
The most common type of cancer that affects these dogs is lymphoma, followed by hemangiosarcoma and mast cell tumors.
Treatment for these cancers can be expensive and often unsuccessful, leading to shortened lifespans for affected animals.
The 5 most common types of cancer in Bernese mountain Dogs
1: Mast cell Tumors:
Mast cell tumors are the most common type of cancer found in Bernese mountain dogs. They typically occur in older dogs, and most commonly affect the skin.
Symptoms can include itching, hair loss, and lump formation. Treatment options include surgery and chemotherapy.
2: Hemangiosarcoma:
Hemangiosarcoma is a type of cancer that affects the blood vessels. It is most commonly found in the spleen or heart, but can also occur in other organs.
Symptoms can include lethargy, weakness, weight loss, and collapse. Treatment options include surgery and chemotherapy.
3: Lymphoma:
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymph nodes and other lymphatic tissues. It is most often seen in middle-aged to older dogs, and symptoms can include enlarged lymph nodes, weight loss, anorexia, and lethargy.
Treatment options include chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
4: Osteosarcoma:
Osteosarcoma is a type of cancer that affects the bones. It is most common in larger breeds of dogs, and symptoms can include lameness, swelling, pain, and fever. Treatment options include surgery and chemotherapy.
The symptoms of cancer in Bernese mountain dogs
1: Weight loss:
One of the most common symptoms of cancer in dogs is weight loss. If your dog starts to lose weight without changing their diet or activity level, it could be a sign that something is wrong.
Weight loss can be caused by many different things, so it’s important to take your dog to the vet for a check-up if you notice this symptom.
2: lethargy:
Cancer can cause fatigue and lethargy in dogs. If your normally active dog suddenly seems tired all the time, it could be a sign of something serious.
Take your dog to the vet if you notice this symptom so they can rule out any other potential causes and get started on treatment if necessary.
3: Appetite changes:
Another common symptom of cancer in dogs is appetite changes. A dog with cancer may lose their appetite or start eating more than usual. If you notice any changes in your dog’s eating habits, it’s important to take them to the vet so they can rule out any other potential causes and get started on treatment if necessary.
4: Anorexia:
Anorexia, or refusal to eat, is another common symptom of cancer in dogs. If your dog stops eating altogether or only picks at their food, it’s important to take them to the vet right away as this can lead to serious health problems like organ failure and malnutrition.
The Treatment Options for Cancer in Bernese Mountain dogs
1: Surgery:
The most common surgical procedure for cancer in dogs is the removal of the tumor. This can be done with a local or a general anesthetic, depending on the size and location of the tumor.
If the tumor is small and localized, it can often be removed with a simple excision. Larger tumors may require more extensive surgery, such as a limb amputation.
2: Chemotherapy:
Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It is typically given as an injection or in pill form. The most common side effects of chemotherapy are vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Chemotherapy can also cause hair loss in some dogs.
2: Radiation therapy:
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It is usually given as an outpatient procedure, and most dogs tolerate it well. The most common side effect of radiation therapy is fatigue.
10 Health Tips to Maintain a Longer, Balanced Bernese Mountain Dog Lifespan:
As the owner of a Bernese mountain dog, you may be wondering what you can do to help your furry friend live a long and healthy life. Here are 10 tips that will help maintain your Bernese’s health and longevity:
Feed Your Bernese a High-Quality Diet:
This is one of the most important things you can do for your dog’s health. A nutritious diet will help keep your Bernese’s coat healthy, boost their immune system, and provide them with the energy they need to stay active.
Get Regular Exercise:
Exercise is important for all dogs, but it’s especially important for Bernese mountain dogs since they are prone to weight gain. Take your dog on walks, runs, or hikes on a regular basis to help them stay fit and healthy.
Keep up with Their Grooming:
Grooming helps keep your Bernese’s coat clean and free of mats and tangles. It also allows you to check for any lumps or bumps that might be early signs of cancer.
Be sure to brush your dog’s teeth regularly as well to prevent dental problems down the road.
Take them to the Vet Regularly:
It’s important to take your Bernese mountain dog to the vet at least once a year for a checkup and vaccinations.
This will help catch any health problems early on so they can be treated before they become serious.
Spay or neuter them:
Spaying or neutering your Bernese mountain dog can help reduce their risk of certain cancers and other health problems later in life.
Avoid smoking around them:
Secondhand smoke is just as harmful to dogs as it is to humans, so it’s best to avoid smoking around your Bernese mountain dog if possible. If you must smoke, do so outside and away from your pet.
Keep them at a healthy weight:
Obesity is a common health problem in Bernese mountain dogs, and it can lead to joint problems, diabetes, respiratory difficulties, and more. Be sure to feed them appropriate portion sizes based on their age, weight ,and activity level ,and avoid giving them too many treats.
Excess weight puts unnecessary strain on their bodies and shorten their lifespan So ,keeping them at a healthy weight is crucial for their long-term health.
Get genetic testing done :
If you’re planning on breeding your Bernese dog, make sure you get genetic testing done first .
This can help identify any potential hereditary health conditions that could be passed downto future generations.
Consider investing in pet insurance :
Pet insurance can help offset the high cost of veterinary care should your Bernese dog ever gets sick or injured .
While it’s not required , it’s something worth considering if you want peace of mind knowing that financial assistance is available if needed.
Keep an eye out for common health problems :
Some common health problems in Bernese mountain dogs include hip dysplasia , elbow dysplasia , von Willebrand disease ,cancer , bloat , and allergies.
Be Sure to familiarize yourself with these conditions so you know what signs to watch out for . Early detections key when it comes to treating these conditions successfully.
FAQs:
Q: Can a Bernese live 10 years?
A: While the median lifespan of a Bernese mountain dog is only 7 years, it is possible for some individuals to reach 10 years with proper care. However, this is relatively rare, and most Bernese will not live past 8 years old.
Q: What is the longest living Bernese mountain dog?
A: The current record holder for oldest Bernese mountain dog is 12 years old. This dog was owned by a family in Switzerland, and lived to a ripe old age despite suffering from several health problems common to the breed.
Q: Which dog has the shortest lifespan?
A: The breed with the shortest lifespan, on average, is the Dogue de Bordeaux. This French mastiff breed has an average lifespan of just 5-6 years. However, like all breeds, there are always individual exceptions – some Dogue de Bordeaux have been known to live up to 10 years or more.
Q: Are Bernese mountain dogs snuggly?
A: Yes! Bernese mountain dogs are known for their affectionate and gentle nature. They are great companion animals and love spending time with their human families. They are also very patient with children and make excellent family pets.
Q: Are Bernese mountain dogs very smart?
A: Yes, Bernese mountain dogs are considered to be one of the smartest breeds of dogs. They are quick learners and excel at obedience training. They also have a good memory and can remember commands even after long periods of time away from training.
Conclusion:
Bernese mountain dogs are a popular breed of dog, but they have a number of health problems that can shorten their lifespan.
The most common cause of death in Bernese mountain dogs is cancer, but there are steps that owners can take to help their dogs live longer, healthier lives.
