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Westie Life Expectancy?

I've always heard that West Highland Terriers are long lived dogs but someone who grooms dogs told me they only live to be about 10 years old. Is this true? Also that they often suffer from chronic ear infections which was news to me. I have a 5 year old Westie, he is very healthy and always as been. He eats a good quality dog food and has regular vet visits. In your experience how long does a westie live, especially if you've owned one I would like to know.
Also: How about German Shepherds? I thought about 10-12 years but I've also heard they are long-lived. As old as 14 when they die. Your experience or thoughts on this?
Our last dog, a mixed breed, died a few months shy of 8 due to health problems associated with severe hip dysplasia. Hardest thing in the world to go through.

They live approx 15 years….depending on the quality of food you give ..they are the best dogs ever I am enjoying my 3rd one now…..my last one passed just shy of her 12th birthday due to an enlarged heart…..It shouldn't be a thought though of how long you have the pet the focus should be the quality of life you give and share…..there is a bond between animals and humans that is both rare and special….

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This entry was posted on Sunday, August 17th, 2008 at 3:02 am and is filed under Westie Grooming. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

  • xoxocutie147

    hmm around 8-11 years…
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  • p m

    Although smaller dogs often have longer lives than large dogs there are always exceptions. I have seen a lot of labs that made it to 15 and some are gone at 12. Westies are generally in the 10-14 year range. I have a cousin that has had several Westies and loves them all. Well bred Shepards often get to 14… but poorly bred ones with hip problems and genetic defects have trouble making it past 10. Breeding, life style, love and a good vet make for a longer life. Good luck
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  • Emily

    The DogFancy magazine tells me that their life spans are 10-15 years. My Westie's about 5 years old too, so I can't say from experience, sorry :)
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  • Soul T

    They live approx 15 years….depending on the quality of food you give ..they are the best dogs ever I am enjoying my 3rd one now…..my last one passed just shy of her 12th birthday due to an enlarged heart…..It shouldn't be a thought though of how long you have the pet the focus should be the quality of life you give and share…..there is a bond between animals and humans that is both rare and special….
    References :