A study in the American Naturalist that drew data from the Veterinary Data Base covering 74 breeds and more than 50,000 dogs reviewed when and how they died. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
They came to the conclusion that large dogs age at an accelerated pace<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n Unfortunately, goldens also often have health issues that shorten their lives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The average lifespan for golden retrievers, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC) and other authorities, is 10 to 12 years old.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Unfortunately, golden retrievers\u2019 lifespan has been decreasing over the years, <\/p>\n\n\n\n In the 1970s, goldens commonly lived to be 16 or 17 years old. That\u2019s the exception now, not the rule.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A golden retriever named Augie celebrated her twentieth birthday<\/a> and was said to be the oldest-living golden at the time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n She was adopted when she was 14 years old. Of course, she was given a birthday celebration to mark the happy occasion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Years ago, people thought that dogs aged seven years for every human year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the AKC currently reports that dogs are considered teenagers of about 15 years old when they\u2019re one year old. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In their second year, they age another nine human years. <\/p>\n\n\n\n After that, they age about the equivalent of five human years for every year. Of course, for larger breeds, the time table is accelerated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Golden retrievers aren\u2019t considered to be adults until approximately two to three years of age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are many factors that influence a golden\u2019s lifespan. Of course, genetics is a major factor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sixty percent of goldens die of cancer in the United States. However, less than 40 percent of European goldens die of cancer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’ve been following our blog for a while then you probably saw our English Cream Golden Retriever<\/a> litters. We partnered with a breeder and donated our Goldens to service dog organizations. The breeder we partnered with mixed European Goldens with American Goldens to try and produce healthier puppies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Morris Animal Foundation<\/a> is conducting a $32 million lifetime study of over 3,000 goldens to figure out the factors affecting their lifespans. Genetics, health, and environmental factors are being considered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although the reason for the increase of cancer in goldens isn\u2019t fully understood yet<\/a>, a recent genetic mutation is thought to be a culprit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Goldens with hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma have genetic alterations that make them more likely to develop those cancers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Golden Retrievers are also more likely to die of bone cancer, lymphoma, and blood cancer than other dog breeds, a 2015 Golden Retriever Lifetime Study found.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The popularity of goldens has also harmed this amazing breed. According to the AKC, they are the third most popular breed<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Poorly or over-bred specimens, such as those found in puppy mills, are also prone to more health problems than well-bred goldens are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Other health problems that goldens and some other large breeds are more susceptible to also can shorten a golden\u2019s lifespan. These include bloat, arthritis and joint problems, and conditions associated with obesity such as diabetes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And goldens face other health problems as they age, including: hip dysplasia, skiing conditions, heart problems, cataracts, Von Willebrand Disease, and Hypothyroidism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Of course, good nutrition, exercise, and neutering can also influence how long a dog will live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Of course, there are no guarantees regarding what will increase your beloved golden\u2019s lifespan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n But there are some common-sense measures<\/a> you can take to help increase the odds that he\u2019ll live a long, healthy life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It may sound obvious, but choosing a healthy dog can mean a dog without or with fewer health problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Choosing a good breeder is a good start. Research your breeder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Knowledgeable, caring breeders do extensive health testing before breeding any dog. And they won\u2019t breed one who doesn\u2019t pass muster.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A good breeder will encourage you to meet the mother of the litter and will question you about why you want a golden. They\u2019ll also ask questions about what you know about the breed, how you\u2019ll raise the dog, and how you\u2019ll care for him. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A breeder that has been breeding for only a few years generally isn\u2019t desirable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Or if the puppies haven\u2019t seen a vet and received appropriate vaccinations and been dewormed, it\u2019s another warning sign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Good breeders aren\u2019t just looking for a quick dollar. They care about improving the breed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Reputable breeders usually provide information on the puppy\u2019s lineage. And AKC papers . But note that many puppy mill breeders also provide AKC papers, which don\u2019t guarantee that the dog is healthy or well-bred.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bad breeders, such as puppy mills, are in it only<\/em> for the money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n They don\u2019t do any testing and generally will breed any two dogs together who will make them money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You won\u2019t be able to meet the mother, who is often sick and poorly bred and not socialized. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Breeding parents in puppy mills live horrid lives, just living in rabbit-type hutches or barns until they can no longer breed, at which time their short lives are usually ended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of my golden rescues was a former puppy mill breeder dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Brandi came to me unsocialized and very ill. <\/p>\n\n\n\n She had a bladder stone the size of a paper weight, which must have caused her much pain for a long time. The rescue group had it removed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n I had other tests run, including an ultrasound for another problem. It turned out she had a cardiac hemangiosarcoma.<\/p>\n\n\n\n I couldn\u2019t let her die without having some quality time to live. I<\/p>\n\n\n\n had her cancer treated by specialists and she lived over nine months in freedom. <\/p>\n\n\n\n She turned out to be the sweetest dog. And she learned how to play, go on walks, and be loved for who she was.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can also choose to rescue your golden. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Of course, not every rescued golden has health or behavior problems. <\/p>\n\n\n\n I am a proponent of both good breeders and rescues. All of my goldens have been rescues. And all have been great dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re not sure what your golden should weigh, check with your vet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Generally, a golden should have a well-defined waistline. <\/p>\n\n\n\n He shouldn\u2019t appear plump or chubby. Instead, he should appear lean. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You shouldn\u2019t be able to see his ribs, but you should be able to feel them with a light layer of fat covering them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So don\u2019t overfeed him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And make sure that he receives enough exercise according to his age and health. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A nice long walk, swimming, and playing can all help keep him fit and trim. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And he\u2019ll be happier being active. But make sure you check with your vet before starting any exercise program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Excess weight strains every major body system and predisposes a dog to joint disorders, hypertension, diabetes, and congestive heart failure. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Just like us, a dog\u2019s dental hygiene can affect their overall health. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Without good dental hygiene, a dog can have periodontal disease. Bacteria can enter the blood system and affect organs, attacking the kidneys, liver, heart, and lungs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Unfortunately, 80 percent of dogs show dental disease by the age of three. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Many vets recommend brushing your dog\u2019s teeth on a regular basis. Daily is best. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s good to have your vet check out whether your golden\u2019s teeth need to be cleaned–or if any need to be pulled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n I brush my dogs\u2019 teeth daily. And, when the vet indicates that they should be professionally cleaned, I take her advice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are many theories regarding whether and when to fix your dog. Many experts say that neutering will help prevent certain types of cancer later in life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Females will have a reduced risk of breast and uterine cancers, pyometra, false pregnancy, uterine torsion, and vaginal and uterine prolapse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Neutering totally eliminates the risk of many cancers that affect male dogs. It also decreases the risk of several others. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Neutered dogs enjoy zero to a reduced risk of testicular cancer prostate problems, anal tumors, hernias, and testicular infections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Neutering also helps decrease the risk of territorialism and hormone-driven behaviors such as aggression to other male dogs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It also ends a male wanting to wander to find females to mate with. Also mounting and marking behaviors will be greatly decreased or ended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When necessary, be prepared to take emergency action regarding your golden. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Accidents happen. Have a plan of action regarding what you\u2019ll do. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You may want to have an emergency kit ready. And know where your local vet and any emergency veterinary clinics are located.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And watching and being prepared for any sudden emergency can mean the difference between life and death, as quick action may be required<\/p>\n\n\n\n Taking your dog to the vet for regular check-ups and providing necessary vaccinations (or doing titers) can be a very important part of the puzzle to help keep your golden in tip-top shape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Any problem can be detected at an early point. And he should be less likely to contract harmful illnesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to keeping his coat as beautiful as it can be, grooming has other health benefits. It will help keep his skin in good shape. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And you’ll be more likely to detect lumps and bumps and other irregularities before they become life-threatening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Keeping your golden\u2019s nails appropriately trimmed is also important for his structure. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And having flop-type ears, goldens are more prone to ear infections. So they must be checked and cleaned as appropriate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Like us, goldens can get skin cancer. So, if they\u2019re exposed to the sun for prolonged periods, it\u2019s advisable to apply dog-safe sunscreen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Goldens are usually very attuned to their family. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If there\u2019s a stressful event, it will affect them. And, like us, stress can affect his body and mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Because goldens are prone to allergies, it\u2019s important to limit known allergens from their environment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Also, some chemicals such as lawn fertilizers or ice melts may make a golden ill–or even be deadly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n So always make sure that you use products that are dog-friendly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Of course, you might need to consult with a professional regarding the proper nutrition<\/a> for your golden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But it\u2019s important to educate yourself regarding what food and treats would be the best for him. Feed a high-quality diet<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n I researched many brands of food for my dogs before choosing one. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Also, knowledge can be a springboard for asking questions of your vet or a veterinary nutritionist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s also important to know what foods are dangerous or deadly to dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chocolate, raisins, macadamia nuts, avocado, apple seeds, onions, and xylitol are deadly to dogs in even small amounts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The ASPCA has a very informative website<\/a> regarding foods that are dangerous to our beloved goldens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to being fun and potentially forming long-term friendships, participating in or attending dog-related activities can keep you better-informed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ask your vet any questions you have regarding your golden. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Attend dog shows and talk with \u201cdog people\u201d to learn as much as you can about your golden\u2019s well-being. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Usually, there are many goldens in obedience, conformation, rally, and agility at dog shows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dog lovers usually love to talk about dog-related matters. Especially about goldens if that\u2019s \u201ctheir breed.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Join a dog club–or even one for golden retriever owners only. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The more well-informed we are, the better we can care for our special canines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As a working breed, goldens need a \u201cjob.\u201d Without one, they may become distressed, bored, and inactive–none of which are good for their mental or physical health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Golden](\"https:\/\/puppyintraining.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/golden-retriever-lifespan-700x525.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAverage Lifespan for Golden Retrievers<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How Fast Do Goldens Age?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Factors That Influence A Golden Retriever\u2019s Lifespan<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Ways To Help Your Golden Retriever Live Longer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Choose the Right Dog<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Keep Your Dog at a Good Weight<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Ensure Good Dental Hygiene<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Spay or Neuter Your Golden<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. Take Emergency Action<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Provide Regular Vet Care<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
7. Regularly Groom Your Golden<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
8. Apply Dog-Safe Sunscreen<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
9. Limit Your Golden\u2019s Stress<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
10. Limit Allergens and Dangerous Chemicals<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
11. Become Your Dog\u2019s Nutritionist<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
12. Develop a Network of Dog Lovers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
13. Train Your Golden<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Average](\"https:\/\/puppyintraining.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/average-golden-retriever-lifespan-700x1050.jpg\")
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