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Q:

If I crossed a Irish wolfhound or great Dane with a smaller big dog breed such as a doberman would it be more likely to live longer?

Hi everyone,

I'm considering getting a big dog for my family, but I'm worried about their life expectancy as I've heard that larger breeds typically have shorter lifespans. I've been doing some research and came across the Irish wolfhound and Great Dane breeds, which I really like. However, I'm wondering if crossing one of these breeds with a smaller big dog breed like a Doberman would increase the chances of the dog living longer.

I want to make sure that the dog I choose will be with our family for as long as possible, so any insights or recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

All Replies

brenden56

Hello there,

I have a mixed breed dog that is a cross between a Great Dane and a Bullmastiff. He is a very large dog and I was also worried about his lifespan before getting him. However, my dog is currently 8 years old and still going strong. Though he's a crossbreed, he inherited more of the Dane's characteristics, which I think is why he has a longer lifespan.

From my experience with a mixed breed, it seems that crossing breeds can increase longevity. But it's important to keep in mind that every dog is different and genetics isn't the only factor that affects lifespan. Proper care, such as regular vet checkups, exercise, and a healthy diet, is also crucial for a dog's longevity.

Hope that helps!

volkman.al

Hi there,

I have been a dog trainer for several years, and I have seen many different breeds and mixes of dogs. While a mix between a Great Dane or Irish wolfhound and a smaller big dog breed like a Doberman could potentially result in a longer lifespan, there are several other factors to consider when choosing a dog.

One important factor is temperament. While some breeds are known for being more laid-back and easygoing, others are known for being more high-strung and requiring a lot of attention and exercise. It's important to choose a breed or mix that fits your lifestyle and personality.

Another important factor is exercise needs. Large dogs generally require more space and exercise than small dogs, so it's important to ensure that you have enough room and time to provide for their needs. A mixed breed dog may inherit traits from either parent, so it's important to do research on both breeds before making a decision.

Finally, it's important to consider adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue organization rather than purchasing from a breeder. There are many dogs in need of loving homes, and adopting a dog can be a rewarding experience for both you and the dog.

Overall, I believe that it's important to consider all factors when choosing a dog, including breed, health, temperament, and exercise needs. With proper care and attention, any dog can lead a happy and healthy life with their family.

dpouros

Hello,

I've owned both large and small breed dogs in the past, including a German Shepherd and a Chihuahua, and while there are certainly differences between the two, I believe that the most important thing is finding a dog that is a good fit for your lifestyle and personality.

While some large breeds may have shorter lifespans due to potential health issues, there are many factors outside of breed that can impact lifespan as well, such as quality of care, genetics, and environment. It's important to focus on providing the best possible care for your dog, regardless of their breed or mix.

In terms of exercise needs, it's true that larger breeds generally require more space and exercise than smaller breeds. However, even smaller dogs can be energetic and require plenty of exercise and attention, so it's important to choose a dog that matches your activity level and lifestyle.

Ultimately, I believe that the most important factor in choosing a dog is finding a good match for your family and your lifestyle. Consider factors such as temperament, exercise needs, and grooming requirements when making your decision, and be sure to provide the best possible care for your furry friend.

wisozk.myra

Hi there,

I have a mixed breed dog that is a cross between a Great Dane and a Labrador Retriever. He's a pretty big dog, but not as large as a purebred Great Dane. In my experience, he's been a healthy dog and has had a longer lifespan than I expected.

I think that crossing a giant breed like an Irish wolfhound or Great Dane with a smaller big breed like a Doberman could potentially increase the dog's lifespan. However, it's important to note that genetics and environment play a big role in a dog's lifespan, so it's not a guarantee that a mixed breed dog will live longer than a purebred dog.

Overall, I think that it's important to prioritize the health and well-being of the dog over their lifespan. Make sure to choose a reputable breeder or adopt from a shelter to ensure that you're getting a healthy dog with a good temperament. Additionally, providing proper care such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine vet check-ups can go a long way in ensuring your dog lives a happy and healthy life.

fohara

Hello,

I have owned a Doberman in the past and can attest to the fact that they are generally healthy dogs. They can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia and dilated cardiomyopathy, but with proper care and regular vet check-ups, these can be managed.

However, as others have mentioned, breeding a giant breed like an Irish wolfhound or Great Dane with a smaller big breed like a Doberman could potentially result in health issues. It's important to keep in mind that mixed breed dogs can inherit traits from either parent, and there's no guarantee that the dog will be healthier or live longer.

In addition, owning a large breed dog comes with certain responsibilities, such as providing enough space and exercise, and ensuring that the dog is properly trained and socialized. These are all factors to consider when choosing a dog that will become a part of your family.

Ultimately, I believe that it's more important to focus on the individual dog's health and personality rather than their breed or potential lifespan. Consider adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue organization, and be sure to prioritize proper care and attention to ensure that your furry friend lives their best life.

sydni68

Hello,

I have personally owned a Great Dane and a Doberman, but not a mixed breed of the two. However, I can tell you that both breeds can be predisposed to certain health issues. Great Danes can suffer from conditions such as hip dysplasia and bloat, while Dobermans are prone to dilated cardiomyopathy and hip dysplasia as well.

While a cross between the two breeds may potentially result in a longer lifespan, it's important to keep in mind that there are still risks associated with any breed. Additionally, the temperament and behavior of a mixed breed dog can be unpredictable and may not align with what you're looking for in a pet.

In my opinion, it's best to focus on finding a reputable breeder or adopting a dog from a shelter that has been properly assessed for health and temperament. With proper care and attention, any breed can make a fantastic addition to your family.

horace.bode

Hey everyone,

I've owned several big dog breeds in the past, including Great Danes and Rottweilers, and while there are some potential health concerns that come with owning a larger dog, there are also many upsides.

Big dogs can often be more laid-back and easygoing than their smaller counterparts, and they can make great family pets. In my experience, they can also be very loyal and protective, which can be reassuring for those who want a dog for security reasons.

However, as others have mentioned, it's important to do your research and make sure you're prepared for the responsibilities that come with owning a big dog. This includes providing enough space and exercise, training and socialization, and regular vet check-ups.

In terms of breeds, I think it's more important to focus on finding a breed or mix that matches your personality and lifestyle, rather than solely focusing on lifespan. While a mix between a Great Dane or Irish wolfhound and a smaller big dog breed like a Doberman could potentially result in a longer lifespan, there are many other factors to consider when choosing a dog that will become a part of your family.

Overall, I believe that owning a big dog can be a wonderful experience as long as you're prepared and committed to providing the love and attention they need.

jaron.johnson

Hi everyone,

I have owned several large breed dogs in the past, including a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Saint Bernard, and I believe that size should not be the only factor to consider when choosing a dog. While larger dogs do require more space and exercise, they can also be very gentle and loving companions.

In terms of lifespan, genetics, environment, and proper care all play a role in a dog's longevity. However, it is true that larger breeds can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia and bloat, so it's important to be aware of these potential risks.

When it comes to choosing a dog, I think that it's important to consider factors such as personality, activity level, and grooming requirements, in addition to size. While mixed breeds can be a good option for those who are concerned about lifespan, it's important to remember that individual temperament and behavior can be difficult to predict.

Overall, I believe that owning a dog of any size can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, as long as you are committed to providing the care and attention that they need. Choose a dog that fits your lifestyle and personality, and be sure to prioritize proper care and attention for your furry friend.

blaze.douglas

Hi there,

I have owned an Irish wolfhound for about 5 years now, and she's been a wonderful companion. From my experience, I would say that Irish wolfhounds tend to have a shorter lifespan compared to smaller breeds. However, with proper care, diet and exercise, you can help to ensure that they live as long as possible.

I think crossing an Irish wolfhound with a Doberman could potentially increase the lifespan, as it could lead to a mix of desirable traits. But the challenge is to find a reputable breeder who can guarantee that the puppies will inherit the best attributes from both breeds.

Ultimately, it's important to remember that each dog has its own unique characteristics and lifespan, regardless of breed. It's important to give them the love and attention they deserve while they're with us.

Hope that helps!

davis.lucy

Hi everyone,

I have a mixed breed dog that is a cross between a boxer and a labrador, and he has been with our family for over 10 years now. While he is considered a medium-sized dog, we have found that he has been a great companion and has provided us with many years of love and enjoyment.

In terms of lifespan, we have found that genetics and environment are significant factors for dog longevity, rather than breed size. Additionally, proper care and attention, such as providing a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine vet check-ups, can greatly impact a dog's health and lifespan.

That being said, there are certainly some factors to keep in mind when owning a larger breed dog. Larger dogs can require more space and exercise, and they can also be more expensive to care for. It's important to consider these factors, as well as breed-specific health concerns, when choosing a dog.

Overall, I believe that the most important factor to consider when choosing a dog is your compatibility with the dog. Different breeds, mixes, and individuals may have different needs and personalities, so it's important to find a dog that fits well with your lifestyle and personality. With proper care and attention, any dog can be a great addition to your family.

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