Collie Life Expectancy

The Collie is one of the longer lived dogs, which is an important consideration for many owners. Several of the larger herding breeds have a much shorter lifespan so the longer Collie life expectancy is really a plus for the breed.

As with any dog, there are measures that the owner can take to ensure the pet has a long, healthy and very happy life.

Most breeders and breed researchers report that the average Collie life expectancy is between fourteen and sixteen years. However, some dogs will live beyond that and others may not live as long.

Genetics can play a factor in dog longevity so knowing how long the lineage of the breeding line lives is definitely important. Some of the hereditary conditions that occur in the breed can impact on Collie life expectancy.

Working with a reputable breeder and asking questions about genetic conditions in the line such as arthritis, von Willebrand’s Disease, thyroid problems and less frequently epilepsy will help. Buying a healthy puppy that has no history of these inherited conditions in their line is the best way to ensure a genetically healthy dog.

Nutrition And Genetics

Even with great genetics it takes constant care to ensure your dog will life out their full potential with regards to their Collie life expectancy. Good nutrition is important for a Collie as with any other purebred or mixed breed dog.

Collie life expectancy can be extended by feeding highly nutritious food that is free from chemical additives, preservatives and large amounts of fillers. This means sticking to a meat based diet that offers at least 21% protein and up to 26% for a growing puppy or active adult dog.

Many breeders recommend a BARF or bones and raw foods diet. This includes raw meaty bones, vegetables, fruits and whole grains, similar to the diet a wild dog would consume.

You don’t have to feed this type of diet, but getting the best quality natural type of commercially prepared food really will help your dog stay healthy and live longer.

Avoiding bad foods such as table scraps, human foods, certain types of nuts, chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic and cow’s milk are also important elements of a healthy diet.

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Importance Of Exercise And Fitness

Exercise is essential in maximizing the Collie life expectancy timeline. As a very active breed they can become lazy couch potatoes if not provided time to get out and run and play.

Typically a mature Collie should have at least two thirty minute exercise times per day where they are actively engaged both physically and mentally. A dog left outside in the yard is not physically or mentally engaged, this is structured activity that you are doing with the dog.

Playing fetch, taking the dog for a brisk walk, jog or run, time at the dog park or a long hike are all good options for appropriate types of activity.

A dog that feels happy and content is also a healthier dog overall. Emotional connection to the family will help extend Collie life expectancy just as a person that feels loved is happier and more content.

Dogs that are stressed are more prone to both physical illness and behavioral problems, both which can shorten the Collie life expectancy. Make changes in the dog’s routine gradual and be prepared to spend extra time with this highly attuned pet whenever there are changes in the home.

Finally, routine, professional health management by a vet that is familiar with the breed is a must.

Collie health hinges on preventative types of treatment and health monitoring just as it does for other breeds. Your vet can also provide information on your dogs weight and overall conditioning that can help both you and your pet stay right on track.