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Why Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Die so Young?

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Why Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Die so Young

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Why Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Die so Young?

There are a few reasons why Bernese Mountain Dogs die young.

One reason is that they are prone to cancer, leading to early death.

They are also susceptible to bloat, a condition in which the stomach twists and cuts off the blood supply, and other health problems like hip dysplasia.

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Bernese Mountain Dog

Why is the Bernese mountain dog’s life span so short?

Like most large breed dogs, the Bernese mountain dog is predisposed to several serious health problems.

They are susceptible to gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), a condition in which the stomach becomes distended with gas and then flips over, trapping it within the abdomen.

The cause of GDV isn’t completely understood but may involve genetics or dietary factors, such as eating one meal per day instead of two or three small meals throughout the day.

Paralysis also affects many Berners.

It’s believed that this disorder occurs due to an abnormality in their spinal cord blood vessels leading to decreased blood flow and tissue death (myelin).

The risk for paralysis increases significantly if a Berner has not been outdoors on natural grass at least once every few months; they don’t thrive when kept indoors too much.  

Paralysis can affect any part of the body affected by nerve impulses from your brain—which means just about everything except your heart and lungs! 

What do most Bernese mountain dogs die from?

A study of Bernese mountain dogs from the USA and Canada (published in 2008) indicates that cancer is the most common cause of death in BMDs.

Of 376 cases, just over half were due to cancer.

Histiocytosis – a condition where growths called histiocytes appear in tissue – accounts for an astounding 25% of all cancers recorded within this breed.

This form of tumor is frequent within BMDs and highly unusual across other species; it appears to be unique to this breed.

But despite its frequency, our understanding of the root causes remains limited, and there are currently no known preventative measures available.

How long do healthy Bernese mountain dogs live?

Veterinary studies have shown that the average lifespan of a Bernese mountain dog is between 8 and 10 years.

According to research published in 2013 by Veterinary Medicine & Surgery, female Berners live about 7.5 years, and males live about 8.5 years.

The same study found that 14% of females lived more than nine years, and 6% died before reaching age five, while 12% of males lived past age eight and 3% passed away before they turned one year old.

Why Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Die so Young?
Playing with Bernese mountain dog in natural scenery

How to calculate the age of your Bernese mountain dog?

A Bernese mountain dog’s first year is equivalent to 15 human terms, while a second-year adds up to nine years of human aging.

Every two calendar years equals an extra four or five “dog” years.

To calculate your dog’s age in human terms, you need only divide its age by 2 and add 7 (for the first few months).

Do Bernese mountain dogs live longer in colder climates?

As colder weather arrives and winter descends on the horizon, many Bernese mountain dogs are pleased with the chill in their environment.

A majority of these cold-weather canines, which were developed to endure harsh Swiss winters, enjoy nothing more than rolling around in a fresh blanket of snow.

These furry farm dogs have enjoyed cozying up to fireplaces for centuries and will do anything necessary to locate shade when it’s hot outside.

Can anything be done to increase life expectancy in Bernese mountain dogs?

Can anything be done to increase life expectancy in Bernese mountain dogs?

The answer is yes.

The owner can do many things to help improve both the quality and quantity of their dog’s life.

By following some of this health advice, you may extend the life of your Bernese mountain dog.

With proper nutrition, exercise, medical care, and love from its owners, many healthy years await these furry creatures.

Why Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Die so Young?
purebred Bernese mountain dog sitting in the grass

What is the longest-living Bernese mountain dog?

To avoid knots and tangles, your Bernese mountain dog’s fur should be brushed at least once a week.

This can help keep your dog healthy and make it easier for you to clean up after him.

Check your pet’s coat regularly for signs of dirt or debris, and wipe them away with a damp cloth before they have time to become deeply embedded in the fur.

Bathing is best done no more than once every month or two, depending on how dirty he gets outside (and how good his house manners are).

To bathe your Bernese mountain dog, use warm water without any soap or detergent added.

Gently rub down its coat when wet until all dirt has been removed; then rinse thoroughly with clean water until the whole body is free from soap residue.

Dry thoroughly afterward with a towel and blow-dryer if possible.

Caring For Your Bernese Mountain Dog

Caring for your Bernese mountain dog is relatively easy.

They are not as active and energetic as some other breeds, so you don’t need to walk them too often, but they do like lots of time outside where they can play chase games with their owners or take a swim in the local pond.

As puppies, they have all the energy of any young pup, but this soon wears off once he has matured.

Many people are surprised by just how quiet the breed is; when indoors, it’s almost impossible to hear that your pet is there!

Final Thoughts, Why Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Die so Young?

In conclusion, Bernese mountain dogs die young for a variety of reasons.

Some of these reasons are preventable, while others are not.

Owners of Bernese mountain dogs should be aware of the health risks associated with these dogs and take steps to mitigate these risks.

By doing so, they can help their Bernese mountain dog live a longer, healthier life.

FAQs

Do Bernese mountain dogs die young?

There is no definitive answer to this question since there is no breed-specific data on the life expectancy of Bernese mountain dogs. u003cbru003eu003cbru003eHowever, it is generally assumed that they have a shorter lifespan than many other breeds, typically living between 7 and 10 years. u003cbru003eu003cbru003eThis is likely due to their large size and susceptibility to health problems.

What kills Bernese mountain dogs?

Bernese mountain dogs are a relatively healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain health problems. u003cbru003eu003cbru003eSome of the health problems affecting Bernese mountain dogs include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat, and cancer.

What do Bernese mountain dogs usually die from?

Bernese mountain dogs usually die from cancer or old age. u003cbru003eu003cbru003eThey are a relatively short-lived breed, and most dogs live to be 8-10 years old.

Why are Bernese mountain dogs so unhealthy?

There are a few reasons why Bernese Mountain Dogs are unhealthy. u003cbru003eu003cbru003eThey are prone to several health problems, including cancer, joint problems, and eye diseases. u003cbru003eu003cbru003eThey also tend to gain weight easily, leading to other health problems.

Further Reading

https://bmcvetres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12917-016-0782-9
https://www.thelocal.de/20090908/21773

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