15 Dog Breeds That Don’t Live Nearly Long Enough

Some dogs come into our lives and feel like they’ll be there forever—but with certain breeds, time moves too fast. Whether it’s their size, genetic issues, or just the way they’re built, some dogs have heartbreakingly short lifespans. If you’ve ever loved one of these breeds, you know how quickly they steal your heart, and how hard it is to say goodbye too soon.

Great Dane

They’re gentle giants with hearts as big as their paws, but Great Danes often don’t make it past 8 years old. Their size is impressive, but it puts extra strain on their bodies, especially their hearts and joints. They grow fast and age fast, and though they’re loving and goofy right up to the end, their time with you always feels way too short.

Bernese Mountain Dog

With their fluffy coats and sweet, calm eyes, Bernese Mountain Dogs are like walking teddy bears, but sadly, they average just 6 to 8 years of life. Cancer is heartbreakingly common in the breed, which is part of why their lifespan is so short. They’re loyal, affectionate, and great with families—which makes their early goodbyes even harder.

Irish Wolfhound

These tall, majestic dogs have a noble presence, but their average lifespan is just 6 to 8 years. Originally bred to hunt wolves, they’ve got strength and grace, but like most large breeds, their bodies wear out too fast. They’re gentle and affectionate despite their size, and when they go, they leave a massive space in your heart and home.

Bulldog

Their squishy faces and silly personalities make Bulldogs lovable clowns, but all those unique features come at a cost. Most Bulldogs only live around 8 to 10 years, with breathing problems, joint issues, and overheating being common concerns. Even though they can be stubborn, they’re incredibly loyal—and you always wish you had more time with them.

Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are big, sweet-hearted dogs that love water and adore their families, but they usually only live 8 to 10 years. Their size, combined with a tendency toward heart and joint issues, means they age quickly. These gentle giants are calm and caring, especially with kids, and when they pass, it’s like losing a guardian angel on four legs.

Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards are known for their size and their calm, patient nature, but most only live between 8 and 10 years. Their giant frames make them prone to joint issues, and they can be vulnerable to heart problems, too. They’re cuddly, loyal, and surprisingly sensitive—and when they’re gone, their absence feels as large as their presence once did.

Rottweiler

Strong, protective, and deeply devoted, Rottweilers are incredible companions—but they typically live only 8 to 10 years. They’re prone to certain cancers and joint problems, and their powerful bodies tend to age faster than smaller breeds. They may look tough on the outside, but their bond with their humans is deep—and it hurts when their time comes too soon.

Dogue de Bordeaux (French Mastiff)

These wrinkled, powerful dogs have strong builds and sweet souls, but they often live just 5 to 8 years. Their massive size puts a lot of pressure on their heart and bones, and their short noses make breathing harder, too. They’re calm, loyal, and great with families—and when they leave, it feels like they were just getting started.

Great Pyrenees

With their fluffy coats and calm nature, Great Pyrenees make wonderful family guardians, but they typically live only about 10 years. Their large size and risk of hip dysplasia and cancer shorten their time. They’re fiercely protective yet loving, often laying quietly by your side—and when they go, they take a piece of your peace with them.

Cane Corso

This Italian mastiff is powerful, loyal, and incredibly intelligent—but like many large breeds, it usually lives only 9 to 11 years. They’re prone to joint issues and heart conditions, and their sturdy frame ages quickly. They form deep bonds with their people, always watching, always nearby—and losing one feels like losing a bodyguard who also happened to be your best friend.

Alaskan Malamute

These beautiful, wolf-like dogs are strong and full of energy, but most only live around 10 years. They can suffer from hip dysplasia and other joint issues, especially as they get older. Their independent spirit and loyalty make them unforgettable, and once they’re gone, the silence they leave behind is almost too much to bear.

Boerboel

This lesser-known South African mastiff is muscular, smart, and deeply attached to its family, but they typically live just 9 to 11 years. Their large size and protective nature can take a toll on their bodies. They’re alert, watchful, and full of quiet affection—and when they’re no longer by your side, it feels like your home’s lost part of its soul.

Basset Hound

They may be low to the ground, but Basset Hounds often deal with serious health issues that shorten their lives to around 8 to 12 years. Their long backs and heavy frames cause strain, and they’re prone to obesity and joint pain. Their soulful eyes and calm presence make them easy to love—and incredibly hard to let go.

German Shepherd

Known for their smarts and loyalty, German Shepherds are one of the most beloved breeds in the world—but they usually only live around 9 to 13 years. Hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and other health concerns often come earlier than expected. They give everything to their people, always ready to protect, and when they pass, it feels like losing a partner.

Bloodhound

With their droopy eyes and incredible noses, Bloodhounds are lovable and hardworking, but their average lifespan is just 9 to 11 years. They’re prone to bloat and joint issues, and their large size doesn’t help. They’re gentle, patient, and incredibly loyal—and when you lose one, you realize just how much space that slow-moving, sweet-hearted dog took up in your life.