15 Dog Breeds with the Shortest Lifespans

“Neapolitan Mastiff (mastino napoletano)” by Bramans is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Choosing the right dogs to welcome into your home isn’t always simple. There are many factors to think about when adding a new furry family member. Since your new pup will quickly become a beloved part of the family, you’ll likely want a pet that gets along well with other animals, is good with children, and has the best chance of living a long, happy life. Here are 15 dog breeds with the shortest lifespans.

Leonberger

“Bali” by adamnsinger is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

The Leonberger, with its massive build and thick coat, has a life expectancy of about 9 years. If you think they look like lions, that’s no accident—legend has it that the breed was created to resemble a regal wild animal! A mix of St. Bernards, Pyrenean Mountain Dogs, and Landseer Newfoundlands, these gentle giants are as majestic as they are cuddly.

Scottish Deerhound

“Scottish Deerhound” by In Memoriam: me’nthedogs is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

The Scottish Deerhound, with a lifespan of 8 to 11 years, is a gentle pup with a heart as big as its size. Known for being fantastic with kids, they’re surprisingly low-shedders despite their long, wiry coats. But don’t let their laid-back nature fool you—they need plenty of room to stretch their legs and burn off energy.

Irish Wolfhound

“Molly – Irish Wolfhound” by Airwolfhound is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Irish Wolfhounds were once fierce warriors used in battles to pull men from horses and chariots. They were also skilled hunters, capable of taking down large game. Now, they’ve traded their hunting days for family life. With a lifespan of just 6 to 10 years, these dogs are calm and happy but always ready for playtime.

Rottweiler

“I Exposición Monográfica Club Rottweiler de España – Santa Brigida – Gran Canaria.” by El Coleccionista de Instantes is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

The Rottweiler, with a lifespan of around 9.5 years, often comes with a tough-guy reputation. Thanks to their powerful build and intimidating presence, many assume they’re aggressive. But here’s the truth—Rotties are big softies at heart! Loyal, calm, and surprisingly quiet, they rarely bark unless there’s a real reason. And those unique facial markings? They make it look like their eyes are always open.

Landseer

“Landseer” by null is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Landseer is one majestic pup, often confused with the black-and-white version of the Newfoundland. Sure, they all look alike, but Landseers have their own vibe—calm, sweet, and super easygoing. With a lifespan of around 10 years, they’re total kid magnets and make a lovable, gentle addition to any home.

Great Dane

“Great dane” by diametrik is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Everyone recognizes a Great Dane when they see one. These towering, graceful dogs are incredibly smart—easy to train but sometimes tricky to manage because of their sheer size. They’re friendly with their furry siblings but can be wary of unfamiliar dogs. Unfortunately, their impressive stature comes with a short lifespan—just around 8.5 years.

Basset Hound

“Basset Hound” by PhilGuinto is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Basset Hounds are a popular breed with a life expectancy of around 10 years. Known for their amazing sense of smell, they’re great at tracking and hunting, especially with those short legs that help them sniff out scents close to the ground! Sadly, these adorable pups are prone to health issues like elbow dysplasia, Willebrand’s disease (a bleeding disorder), and glaucoma.

Pakistani Mastiff

“File:Pakistani Mastiff.jpg” by Nicolas2200 is licensed under CC CC0 1.0

The Pakistani Mastiff, with a life expectancy of around 9 years, goes by several names, including Bully, Bully Kutta, and Indian Alangu Mastiff. Unfortunately, these loyal and sweet dogs have been involved in some shady illegal dog fighting rings in Pakistan. Thankfully, organizations like World Animal Protection International are working with the government to put a stop to it.

Neapolitan Mastiff

“Neapolitan mastiff (7982300911)” by gomagoti is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Another mastiff on our list! The Neapolitan Mastiff is a stunning dog, famous among dog lovers for its impressive size. With a lifespan of about 9 years, they’re fearless protectors and are always ready to defend their owners. Though their intimidating size gives them a scary reputation, they’re also loving and always up for a game.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

“Greater Swiss Mountain Dog 2018 (2)” by Canarian is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are strong and full of energy, and they also need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They’re calm and steady but surprisingly athletic. With a lifespan of around 8 years, these dogs stay playful puppies for 2 to 3 years—except they’re 100 pounds of fun! Be ready for some big-time play sessions.

Chow Chow

“Chow-chow” by Томасина is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Chow Chow is a super cute dog, with its fluffy coat and stuffed animal-like appearance. In northern China, “Chow Chow” actually means “Puffy Lion Dog!” As adorable as they are, Chow Chows are prone to some dog health problems like hip and elbow dysplasia and cataracts. Sadly, they have a shorter life expectancy—around 8 years.

Jagdterrier

“Jagdterrier” by Christian Lohner is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Jagdterrier is definitely not short on cuteness! Though not widely known, these little pups are expert hunters and trackers, earning them the nickname “German Hunt Terrier.” They’re also fiercely protective, often keeping wild boar, foxes, rabbits, and badgers away from your property. On average, they live about 10 years.

French Bulldog 

“French Bulldog Puppy” by freestocks.org is licensed under CC CC0 1.0

Everybody loves a Frenchie! With their squishy noses and adorable ears, they’re hard to miss when strolling down the street. If you’re not the most active person, a Frenchie could be your perfect match. Known as one of the laziest dogs around, they’re ideal if you prefer lounging on the couch over going for a run. This relaxed lifestyle might explain their shorter lifespan of around 10 years.

Saint Bernard 

“What Flower!” by Haley Redshaw is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Saint Bernards are total people lovers, always ready to make friends with anyone they meet. These big dogs need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and keep their calm demeanor. On average, they live about 9.5 years. Every Saint Bernard loves playing in the snow and carrying things around—they’re perfect for active families. Show them love, and they’ll return it tenfold!

Bernese Mountain Dog

“Bernese Mountain Dog.” by Bernard Spragg is licensed under CC PDM 1.0

The Bernese Mountain Dog is known for its stunning, thick coat—soft and fluffy, but better suited for colder climates than hot ones. These dogs absolutely love romping in the snow. With a lifespan of around 7 years, they’re fantastic with kids, typically calm and easygoing, though sometimes a bit shy.