Abstract This study was undertaken to determine the association between life spans and breed size in the dog, based upon data derived from the pet population.
Seventy-seven American Kennel Club breeds were analyzed with data collected for more than 700 dogs. Multiple linear regression analysis was carried
out with longevity as the dependent variable and height or weight as the independent variable. A negative correlation was observed between height and
longevity (r = -0.603, p < 0.05), and between weight and longevity (r = -0.679, p < 0.05). Weight was the significant predictor of life span (p < 0.001),
revealing that breeds smaller by weight generally live longer than heavier breeds. These data form the ground work for investigations of aging utilizing
the dog as a model and provide owners with a quantitative method for predicting lifespan of dog breeds, thereby aiding in pet selection.
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People
Dog owners
American Kennel Club breeds
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Dogs