I’m sure you’ve heard that one of the tallest dog breeds in the world is also a gentle giant.
Well, sadly their size comes with a trade-off which is a significantly reduced lifespan compared to nearly all of the smaller dog breeds. A Pomeranian can statistically live nearly 10 years longer than a Great Dane.
The average lifespan of a Great Dane is 6-8 years but with proper care, a healthy diet, and exercise Great Danes can live 8-12 years.
A fairly recent study has found that large breeds experience an earlier onset of senescence with an increased rate of aging. They also proved that the average lifespan of a dog drastically decreases when body mass increases, especially in giant breeds.
The Great Dane’s large size can make them more susceptible to joint problems which are exacerbated by their weight. This can shorten their lifespan as they are at risk for developing bone and joint issues.