Why do Boxer dogs age so fast
Why Do Dogs Age So Fast? The Answer May Surprise You! (2024)
Dogs go from being adorable, bouncing puppies to adult dogs showing signs of growing old in an unbelievably short time frame.
From chewing slippers to struggling with stairs. From zipping around the yard to sleeping away the day. From endless energy to slower movements and graying muzzles.
Its heartbreaking to watch and is a constant reminder that every day should be treasured, but why does it happen so quickly?
Why do dogs age so fast? Dogs rate of aging and lifespan are predetermined by their genetic makeup. There is rapid aging during the first year of life, which sets the stage for a short lifespan. Their high metabolism speed is also believed to accelerate the aging process.
Aging is inevitable, and some species, like our canine companions, age at an alarming rate.
In the following, well not only explore why our dogs age quickly, but well also look at the phenomenon of big dogs aging faster than small dogs and what you can do to give your dog the best chance at a long and happy life.
Why Dogs Age So Fast
Aging, or senescence, can be defined as, according to NCBI, the time-related deterioration of the physiological functions necessary for survival and fertility.
In the first year of a dogs life, there is rapid growth and development. That first year of a dogs life is roughly equal to the first 15 years of human life.
The second year of a dogs life is equivalent to about nine human years, and each following year is about the same as four human years, according to AKC.
You can see that from the moment a puppy is born, he begins to age quickly, and, as with people, the canine body slowly deteriorates over time.
Although more studies need to be done before well fully understand why dogs age so fast, we do have a general idea of the influencing factors, which well examine below.
Genetic Makeup
You wouldnt expect a bat to outlive an eagle or a tiny bug to live longer than a monkey, right?
Maybe youve never paused to consider that we tend to associate size with longevity and rightly so.
Some of the longest-living creatures are huge, and many of those with short lifespans are quite small. Consider this:
| Animal | Average Size (in pounds) | Lifespan (in years) |
| Bowhead whale | 120,000 | Close to 200 |
| African elephant | 14,000 | Up to 70 |
| Grizzly bear | 800 | 25-30 |
| Human | 100-200 | 70-85 |
| Dog | 20-80 | 10-15 |
| Cat | 9 | 12-15 |
| Mouse | .5-1 ounce | 1-2 |
Generally speaking, the larger the creature, the longer the lifespan. There are, of course, a few exceptions, but the basic assumption holds true.
Every species is held captive, in terms of lifespan, by its genetic coding passed down through generations.
Granted the numbers may fluctuate somewhat due to environmental factors, dietary changes, or other determinants, but they dont change rapidly or without cause.
Dogs, just like all other species, can only live as long as their genes dictate.
Faster Metabolism Rates
One theory in regards to dogs rate of aging revolves around metabolism, the chemical processes that occur within the body.
Typically, the larger the animal, the slower the metabolic rate and vice versa.
Because dogs are fairly small, their metabolic rate is rather high, which results in the formation of more free radicals and a faster rate of cell and tissue deterioration.
Basically, their bodies must work harder to function, and they wear down faster as a result.
Why Do Large Breeds Have a Shorter Lifespan Than Small Breeds?
Here, were treading into murky waters. The reason behind smaller breeds outliving larger breeds (often by more than three times) is not yet fully understood.
Large animals generally live a lot longer than smaller species, but in the case of breeds within the dog species, the opposite is true large breeds have a shorter lifespan than small breeds.
Likely, growth hormones play a significant role in the reduction of lifespan.
You see, although large and small breeds both reach full size in roughly the same time frame (12-18 months), large breeds grow a lot more within that time than small breeds do.
Its assumed, though not yet proven, that this rapid growth contributes to accelerated aging and consequently a shorter life expectancy.
Its interesting to note that this study determined that large breeds tend to have a higher rate of inbreeding within their lines, which negatively impacts lifespan.
This also explains why mixed-breed dogs tend to live longer on average than purebreds.
How To Help Your Dog Enjoy a Long, Happy Life
While its disheartening to consider how relatively short your dogs lifespan is compared to ours, there are simple steps you can take to make sure that every one of your dogs days is enjoyed to the fullest and youre giving him the best chance of living the longest life possible.
Diet
Feeding your dog a high-quality diet from day one is one of the most important things you can do.
There are, of course, complete-nutrition kibble diets, but some are better than others.
Be sure to check with our Ultimate Guide to Food and Treats to learn what to look for and what to avoid.
Feeding raw or homemade diets is also an option and perhaps a better choice for fostering longevity, but be sure to consult with your vet or a canine nutritionist to be certain that your dogs daily caloric and nutrient needs will be met.
Exercise
Exercise is important for every stage of your dogs life, perhaps even more so as aging fights to slow him down.
Regular activity will help keep your dog mobile for longer, will help prevent obesity (a leading cause of early death), and will release endorphins those feel-good hormones.
Additionally, exercise has been shown to:
- Combat muscle loss and deterioration.
- Improve circulation.
- Reduce stress levels.
- Engage the mind.
- Help reduce pain and inflammation.
Just be aware of your dogs limitations, and consult with your vet before beginning any new exercise regimen with an older dog.
Quality Time
You are the center of your dogs world. It stands to reason that the more quality time you spend with your four-legged buddy, the happier and more fulfilled hell be.
Make it a point not to simply exist in this same home with your dog but to actively participate in activities with him each day.
This could be as simple as going for a walk together, playing fetch outside, giving him a good brushing and a belly rub you get the idea.
Whatever your dog enjoys doing, make sure it happens frequently so that hell always have something to look forward to and live for.
Routine Veterinary Care
Regular checkups can identify and rectify many potentially life-threatening conditions before they progress past the point of treatment.
Your vet can advise you on dietary changes and exercise as your dog advances in age.
Dental health is also very important as it has been shown to affect longevity.
A Quick Look Back
Rapid development early in life, genetic determinants, and fast metabolism are all thought to be behind the fast rate at which dogs age, and this also means that their lifespans are much shorter than ours.
Rest assured that your dog is not spending his days dwelling on this, and neither should you.
One of the things we most admire about our furry friends is their ability to live life in the moment. There is definitely a lesson to be learned there.
Embrace each day with your dog as a gift, and focus on the present.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK10041/
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/how-to-calculate-dog-years-to-human-years/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32607099/
https://meridian.allenpress.com/jaaha/article-abstract/55/3/130/434661/
https://ultimatepetnutrition.com/why-dogs-age-fast-than-humans/
How Fast Can A Dog Run? Average Dog Speed, Fastest Breeds & FAQs
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This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Meri Halvari, DVM.How fast can dogs run? If youve observed your dog sprinting alongside a canine friend at the park or zipping around your yard in pursuit of fun, its clear that dogs are naturally fast. But you might wonder, what makes them so swift on their feet? Do four legs give dogs a speed advantage over humans? The running pace of an average dog can vary widely and is influenced by several factors, including body composition, breed, size, and age, among others.
In this guide, well explore all you need to know about canine running speeds. Well delve into the mechanics of how dogs run so quickly, identify some of the fastest dog breeds, and much more. Lets get started!
Table of contents
In This Article:Table of contents
In This Article:How Fast Can A Dog Run?
A typical healthy domestic dog, without specific training or conditioning, can reach speeds of approximately 15-20 mph (or 24-32 km/h). Nonetheless, the spectrum of dogs top speeds is broad and primarily influenced by their breed and size.
Breeds with shorter legs and more robust bodies, including French Bulldogs and Basset Hounds, tend to run slower than the average. On the other hand, breeds that boast long legs and streamlined bodies, like Greyhounds and Whippets, usually run much faster. Physical conditioning is another factor that influences canine speeds.
Generally, dog speed falls within the three categories below.
Average Dog Speed
The average speed dog can maintain comfortably. It is not the maximum speed the dog can reach but rather a pace sustained over a moderate distance without overexertion. For most healthy adult dogs, this is in the range of 15-20 mph. This speed would be common during a routine run, like when a dog is playing fetch or enjoying a jog alongside their owner.
Dog Running Speed
A dogs running speed defines any speed a dog travels while running. It can vary widely depending on the dogs mood, the purpose of running (playful running, chasing something, running out of fear), physical fitness, and immediate environment. Typically, dogs in this speed phase run between 20 to 30 miles per hour.
Dog Top Speed
Dog Top Speed refers to the fastest speed a dog can reach. This is the peak performance a dog can achieve and is usually maintained for only very short bursts, such as in a high-speed chase or during competitive racing. The average dogs top speed is typically associated with running dog breeds like Greyhounds, Salukis, and Afghan hounds. Dog top speed fluctuates between 30-45 miles per hour.
Greyhounds, for example, are known to reach top speeds of up to 45 mph, which is far beyond the average for most breeds. This speed is not sustainable for long distances due to the immense energy expenditure and physical demands on the dogs body.
In summary, Average Dog Speed is the comfortable pace for a typical dog, Dog Running Speed covers any speed at which a dog runs and varies with circumstances, and Dog Top Speed is the maximum velocity a dog can achieve in a full sprint.
How Fast Is The Fastest Dog?
The Greyhound breed holds the title for the fastest canines on Earth, reaching top speeds close to 45 miles per hour. The fastest recorded speed for a Greyhound is 41.8 miles per hour, documented in Wyong, Australia, in 1994. Additionally, an Australian Greyhound is reputed to have reached an astonishing but unofficial speed of 50.5 miles per hour, making it the swiftest recorded run for a dog.
Why Are Dogs So Fast?
How fast can a dog run? Various unique features equip dogs to reach high speeds. Most dogs can out-sprint humans, thanks in part to the advantage of having four legs. Lets look at the primary physical traits that influence a dogs speed:
Aerodynamics bodyDogs capable of reaching speeds up to 45 mph undoubtedly possess specialized bodily features. Dogs bred for speed often exhibit an aerodynamic form. Their bodies are crafted to slice through the air efficiently to achieve such high velocities. The fastest dog runners are likely to have a slender build, a small head, a flattened rib cage, and long, muscular legs that are proportionately balanced. These traits work together to reduce air resistance, enabling them to reach and maintain higher speeds.Respiratory and cardiovascular systemA robust cardiovascular and respiratory system significantly impacts a dogs endurance and speed. Sighthounds, for instance, have oversized, powerful hearts capable of pumping blood quickly to match racing demands and maintain high speeds. Their large lungs and wide nostrils enable swift and substantial air intake, translating to more oxygen for their muscles and, consequently, increased endurance. In contrast, dogs with smaller hearts and less respiratory capacity tend to be slower runners.Limbs(legs)Larger dogs often run faster than smaller ones because longer legs mean longer strides, covering greater distances with fewer steps. However, size isnt the only factor; the key to a dogs running speed lies in the power of its footstrike against the ground. The stronger the push-off, the faster the dog can run. For example, when comparing a Greyhound to a Great Dane, the Greyhound may be quicker not just because of leg length but because of the optimal combination of limb length and muscular strength, enabling a more powerful stride.Paws (pads & nails).A dogs paws are uniquely adapted to facilitate rapid acceleration, especially during sprints. The paws feature thick, tough pads that offer a strong grip across various terrains. The toenails of a dog also play a crucial role, acting like cleats to provide additional traction when moving at high speeds. For owners of swift-running dogs, its important to maintain short, well-trimmed nails to prevent them from catching or breaking during a run, which can lead to significant pain and bleeding.GaitDogs have four gaits: walk, trot, canter, and the fastest, gallop, which includes a suspension phase with all legs off the ground. Speed breeds like Greyhounds and Whippets feature a double-suspension gallop, where they extend fully mid-stride and then tuck their hind legs beneath, propelling them forward efficiently. This gait is key to their high-speed performance.ShouldersDogs have disconnected shoulder bones (lacking the collar bone, unlike humans) that allow a greater stride length, making running easier and faster.TailWhen running, a dogs tail serves as a counterweight to your dogs body movements. As our dog needs to change direction while running fast, his body needs extra help. The tail ensures your pup doesnt spin off course or tumble around.Why Do Dogs Run So Fast? According to Science
Research-based reasons explaining how and why dogs run fast.
- Limb optimization for sprinting. Research indicates that dogs can quickly transition from walking to sprinting, utilizing limbs optimized for movement. As the Merck Veterinary Manual notes, dogs share many of the same muscles, tendons, joints, and ligaments as humans.[1]
- Force application. Similar to an elite sprinter who can apply significant force with each step, dogs also utilize peak muscular force, which suggests they operate near the force limits of their muscles and limbs.
- Genetic influence on muscle mass. A study published inPLOS Genetics discovered a genetic mutation in some Whippets that codes for a muscle protein known as Myostatin, which increases muscle mass, enhancing their speed and racing performance (a condition known as Bully Whippet Syndrome). The findings explain why some whippets run even faster than dogs and validate why muscle mass correlates with how fast certain dog breeds can run.[2]
- Muscle contraction and speed limits. In humans, the running speed limits are set by the contractile speed of the muscle, with muscle fibers contractile speeds setting the limit on how quickly the runners limb can apply force to the running surface. The same applies to dogs; the top speed dogs can reach may come down to how quickly muscles in the body can move.
- Ancestral skeletal structure and endurance. Dogs inherit a skeleton adapted for running and leaping from their wolf ancestors, designed to propel them forward quickly for chasing prey. The University of California, Santa Cruz research compared the running prowess of retrievers, hounds, and northern breeds and found that dog breeds that have remained closest to theirwolf ancestors (northern breeds) showed greater athleticism and endurance due to their more wolf-like skeletal structure (the angle of the head and the rear leg are more wolf-like), which allows efficient energy transfer and reuse with each stride.[3]
The Fastest Dog Breeds
Meet the dogs that run the fastest. Here is a list of the fastest dog breeds on the planet.
- Greyhound Top speed: 45 mph
- Saluki Top speed: 42 mph
- Afghan Hound Top speed: 40 mph
- Vizsla Top speed: 40 mph
- Jack Russell terrier Top speed: 38 mph
- Dalmatian Top speed: 37 mph
- Borzoi Top speed: 36 mph
- Whippet Top speed: 35 mph
- Doberman Pinscher Top speed: 32 mph
- Border Collie Top speed: 30 mph
- Poodle Top speed: 30 mph
- German Shepherd Top speed: 30 mph
- Scottish Deerhound Top speed: 28 mph
- Giant Schnauzer Top speed: 28 mph
- Italian Greyhound Top speed: 25 mph
As proud owners of a Greyhound, the fastest dog breed in the world, we understand the importance of maintaining their peak physical condition. If your dog is among the fast dog breeds or a fairly active dog, we recommend Whistle, a premier fitness smart tracker for dogs that allows you to track and achieve your dogs fitness goals based on breed, age, and weight. It also provides health monitoring to catch potential health issues before they become problems.
The Slowest Dog Breeds
Some dog breeds are not known for their speed. The average speed for the slowest dog breeds typically ranges from 5-10 miles per hour.
Here is a list of the dog breeds that dont run so fast and their estimated speeds.
- French bulldog Under 15 mph
- Chihuahua 5 to 10 mph
- Cardigan Welsh Corgi Under 10 mph
- Pekingese Under 10 mph
- Pembroke Welsh Corgi Under 10 mph
- Japanese Chin Under 10 mph
- Shih Tzu 6 mph
- Pug 5 to 10 mph
- Old English Mastiff Around 15 miles per hour
- Toy poodle 10 mph
- Bulldog Under 15 mph
- Bassett Hound 5 to 10 mph
How Fast Can A Puppy Run?
Generally, very young puppies may only trot a few miles per hour as theyre still mastering the coordination of their limbs and building muscle strength. As they grow and their bodies become more capable of handling the stress of running, their speed can increase.
You can expect most puppies to reach a speed of 5-15 miles per hour. However, larger breed puppies who will grow into dogs known for their speed, such as Greyhounds or German Shepherds, may show an aptitude for running fast even from a young age. By the time they are about six months old, they might be running 10-15 miles per hour in short bursts. Smaller breeds, or those not bred for speed, will typically run slower.
History of Dogs Running Fast
The history of dogs running fast is related to dog racing. Dog racing has a largely undocumented history, but its known to have started with Greyhounds, renowned for their speed. The sport took off in the United States in 1919, and not long after, countries like Australia also began setting up racetracks.[4] Currently, only six states in the U.S. allow greyhound racing due to a significant decrease in betting on these races. Additionally, all greyhounds that race in the U.S. need to be officially registered with the National Greyhound Association (NGA).
Dog Evolved to Run Faster
As for the historical evolution of dogs running speeds, contrary to the notion that these speeds might have remained static over time, evidence suggests otherwise. Research published in the Journal of Experimental Biology examined the speed limits of dogs, horses, and humans, revealing that the racing speeds of both horses and greyhounds have risen.[5]
The winning speed in the greyhound English Grand National hasincreased by nearly 15%in the 80 years since its inception in 1927.Thus, parallel to the improvements in human athletes, our canine counterparts have also experienced enhancements in their racing speeds over the years.
Signs Your Dog Can Run Fast
Here are some common signs your dog is a fast runner.
- Athletic build
- You are not able to catch
- Flexible spine
- Can easily outrun you
- Narrow body
- Ears pushed down to combat wind resistance
- Front legs move in a synchronized manner, with rear legs
- Compact paws that are well-arched with tight toes for better grip
Determine How Fast Your Dog Can Run
- Get a good stopwatch
- Hit the dog racing track or local track
- Time his runs
- Calculate the average speed at which your dog can hit
Why Some Dogs Dont Run Fast
Some dogs cant run fast due to their genetic and physical characteristics. For example, certain breeds, like Huskies and Greyhounds, are naturally equipped for speed and endurance.
For sustained running, such as 30 to 60-minute jogs, dogs need to breathe in large amounts of oxygen, which requires specific genetic traits. Consider short-nosed breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs. These brachycephalic dogs often struggle with running due to their compromised respiratory systems, which are characterized by narrow nostrils and obstructive soft palates, leading to difficulty in breathing efficiently.
Similarly, larger breeds, including St. Bernards and Newfoundlands, may move quickly but typically lack the stamina for prolonged distances due to their greater body mass.
How Fast Can Small Dogs Run?
Smaller dog breeds like Chihuahuas tend to be slower runners due to their petite stature, with shorter legs that limit their speed and stride length. These breeds also have smaller lung capacities and hearts, so they cant sustain fast breathing rates for long and tire quickly.
For instance, a Shih Tzu may average speeds of only about 6 miles per hour, while the average dog can reach speeds of 15-20 miles per hour and can keep up a walking pace for much longer periods.
The anatomy of small dogs isnt typically suited for speed their limbs and body structure dont allow for rapid propulsion, unlike some exceptions, such as the Jack Russell Terrier, known for its agility and quickness.
Training Your Dog to Run Fast
If youre looking to tap into your dogs natural athleticism and enhance their running abilities, training is key. From building stamina to perfecting form, our comprehensive guide on how to train your dog to run covers it all.
And to ensure your furry friend is geared up for success, check our curated list of the best dog running gear. Dive into these resources and set the pace for a healthier, more active lifestyle with your canine companion. Ready, set, go let the training begin!
Are Dogs Faster Than Humans?
Can dogs run faster than humans? Yes, when it comes to a sprint, the average dog can outpace most humans with ease.
Dog Speed vs Human Speed
When comparing the average speed of a typical household dog, which is around 15-20 mph, to the average speed of a human aged between 18-34 years, which is 13.62 km/h (8.46 mph), its evident that dogs generally run faster than humans. On average, dogs run 7 to 12 mph faster than humans. This disparity grows even more pronounced when considering athletic dog breeds, such as Greyhounds, which can reach speeds up to 45 mph.
Fastest Human vs Fastest Dog Breed: Who Is Faster?
The fastest human, Usain Bolt, can run at a speed of 27.8 miles per hour, while the Greyhound, the fastest dog in the world, can run at about 45 miles per hour.
Bolt set the 100-meter world record at 9.58 seconds. By comparison, a Greyhound can complete 100 meters in just 5.33 seconds.In this comparison, the winner is our canine companion, the Greyhound, sprinting at a rate 1.6 times faster than the fastest human.
Here is footage of a dog versus a human racing to see who is faster!
How Fast Can a Dog Run a Mile?
It depends on the dog breed. An average dog can run a mile in 8 to 10 minutes. An elite dog built to run can easily run a mile in 4-6 minutes.
How Fast Can a Dog Run Mph?
Dogs, on average, can run about 15 to 20 miles per hour. The highest verified speed is 41.8 miles per hour, set by a Greyhound.
Dog Speed Km/H?
When it comes to kilometers per hour, dogs, on average, can run about 24 to 32 kilometers per hour. The fastest speed is 67 kilometers per hour, set by a Greyhound.
Frequently Asked Questions
Caring For Dogs That Run Fast
Dogs require regular exercise and mental stimulation, essential for all canines, from high-energy marathon runners and swift sprinters to more sedentary couch potato breeds. Engaging in everyday activities such as runs, walks, and fetch not only maintains your pets healthy weight but also contributes to their overall well-being.
Leveraging your dogs innate propensity for running can be fun and rewarding. For ideas on how to channel this energy, explore our guide on dog sports and entertaining activities. Additionally, a dog treadmill can be an excellent tool for enhancing your dogs speed and endurance. This is especially useful when your schedule doesnt allow regular outdoor exercise. Dog runs are also great for giving your canine speedster a place to run around.
Regardless of the activity level, ensuring your furry friend gets enough physical activity is the best way to alleviate stress and prevent anxious or destructive behavior.
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Sources
Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processand product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
- Merck Veterinary Manual. (n.d.). Description and Physical Characteristics of Dogs Dog Owners
- Parker, H. G., Kim, L. V., Sutter, N. B., Carlson, S., Lorentzen, T. D., Malek, T. B., & Ostrander, E. A. (2007). Genetic structure of the purebred domestic dog. PLOS Genetics, 3(5), e79.
- VonHoldt, B. M., Pollinger, J. P., Lohmueller, K. E., Han, E., Parker, H. G., Quignon, P., & Ostrander, E. A. (2016). Genome-wide SNP and haplotype analyses reveal a rich history underlying dog domestication. Nature, 464(7290), 898-902.
- Bryce, C. M., & Williams, T. M. (2017). Comparative locomotor costs of domestic dogs reveal energetic economy of wolf-like breeds. Journal of Experimental Biology, 220(Pt 2), 312-321.
- GREY2K USA. (n.d.). History of Dog Racing in the United States.
- Denver Zoon. African Wild Dog, Lycaon pictus.
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