The last few years have seen many of us welcome a new four-legged friend into our homes, as the Kennel Club has dog ownership rise to record levels.
With 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your perfect pup – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or crossbreed.
One of the terrible truths of dog ownership is that we are likely to outlive our adored pet, with the average dog living just over 11 years. But there's a fairly substantial gap between the breeds that live the longest and shortest lives.
For all the latest dog news, pictures, advice and information, join our Scotsdog Facebook group here
New research published in the journal Scientific Reports has used the Royal Veterinary College’s Veterinary Companion Animal Surveillance System (VetCompass), a database holding information on over two million animals, to work out the average life expectance of some of the UK’s most popular breeds of dog.
Researchers took a random sample of 30,563 dogs that died over a five year period to come to their findings.
Here’s what they found.
9. German Shepherd
One of the most useful working dog breeds, popular with the army and police forces, the German Shepherd lives for an average of 10.16 years. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
10. Shih Tzu
Originating in Tibet, the Shih Tzu is a popular companion dog that researchers found will live to an average of 11.05 years. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
11. Border Collie
The Border Collie is the world's most intelligent dog breed and also one of the most long lived - with an expected life of 12.10 years. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
12. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The gentle and affectionate Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can expect to live for an average of 10.45 years. Photo: Canva/Getty Images