How Long Do Boxers Live?

[Joodles]

I have a question for Krikkit.

I noticed that some of your dogs have lived 14 1/2 years!
Butch died just 3 weeks before his 11th birthday. I would have liked more time with him.

Is longevity related to good bloodlines? Type of food? That
great climate? Your dogs obviously lead very active lives.

 

[Krikkit]

Hi Joodles, I do not really know, but count my blessings that we had Bo, Rebel and Tess well into their teens. For the most part, the dogs in the background of our babies lived to good ages. We feed a BARF diet, the Boxers are always very fit and in lean condition, and they do lots of things with us so I guess they are never bored LOL. I usually avoid any medications if possible and rely on rest or dietry supplements or alternative treatments when applicable (our vet is used to us by now ). Our Boxers live a fairly natural lifesytle, having run of the house and 2.5 acres, they are allowed to dig (except in the Orchids), eat grass, roll in the dirt, free run on the beach and generally do all the things that dogs love to do. Mainly, I just think we were very fortunate, and hope our current babies have the same lifespan.

 

[JulieM]

I know this was addressed to Krikkit, but I hope no one minds if I comment.

I think Krikkit is being modest - I think her long lifespans are very much related to the way her dogs are raised. While genetics do play a part, I think environment has much more to do with the health and longevity of our dogs' (and our own!) lives than we give it credit for.

Is longevity related to good bloodlines? Type of food? That great climate? Your dogs obviously lead very active lives.

IMO, all of the above! Dogs from lines that don't live long are probably more likely to have a short life (those dogs are dying of *something* other than old age, and it's probably at least partly hereditary). Food is a very important factor and the fewer chemicals you pump into your dog's body the better off he'll be. Medications and vaccinations follow this line. As far as climate, well, unfortunately I've never been to Oz, but I'd imagine in general it's less polluted than most of North America (and Europe, for that matter). Active lifestyles are also very important. Most North American dogs (all breeds, not just Boxers) are overweight. Some grossly so. I don't know the statistics offhand, but I know that even being 10 lbs overweight can take years off a person's life - I'd imagine there is a correlation for dogs.

There is a reason that dogs lived longer, healthier lives 50 years ago. Considering the improvements in veterinary care and pre-breeding testing we have today, it can't be only genetics!

Julie

 

[Muggsie's Momma]

I hope I am as lucky as you. Muggsie will turn 8 years old this spring. The thought of life without her is painful. She lives a life very close to what you described and is very youthful looking and well loved and cared for.