As well as providing us with companionship, stress reduction and a more active lifestyle, our deep bonds with our dogs make the possibility of parting with them emotional to think about.It’s only natural then to want to know -  is there anything we can do that can make a difference to their life span?

And it appears...there is! So, we’ve rounded up the top 5 scientific suggestions for how to keep your dog feeling happy and healthy for longer. 

Let's dive in.

1. Maintain your dog’s weight

Countless studies have found the links between obesity and a higher risk of death for dogs. This one, in particular, found that the risk of “in all breeds, median life span was shorter in overweight compared with normal-weight dogs”. They highlighted that a healthy body condition for dogs was particularly important from midlife onward too!

So it goes to show that keeping your dog active and in good shape is one of the best ways to be surethey are getting the best chance of a long, happy life. Check those extra treats aren’t adding up and keep a regular walking routine with your dog - even as they age. 

If in doubt, examine your dog physically to assess their condition.You should be able to feel your dog's ribs, without them protruding too much from the skin. There shouldn’t be a thick layer of fat covering the ribs, and your dog's chest should also be wider than his stomach when you face him front on. That important upward curve from chest to stomach should also be visible. If things are a bit rounder, you might want to visit your vet for a diet plan. 

2. Keep their teeth clean

It’s becoming clear that dental health is also important to the longevity of our beloved pets. One

study found that dog death rates decreased with a higher frequency of dental treatment. While another study on dental issues in dogs found a worrying link to heart disease.

These gum diseases can be prevented by a good oral hygiene routine- with plenty of manual brushing and regular visits to a vet for a good scale and polish.

One of the biggest signs of trouble? Bad breath. That’s right - your dog’s breath isn’t meant to smell so awful. So if it becomes really noticeable, it’s worth seeing your vet right away. 

3. Play games

Keeping our dogs engaged, enriching their minds and bonding with them dailyis hugely important to their longevity. An analysis of canine death rates found that dogs that had lots of active time with their owners lived longer. Plus, as dogs age, they have been shown to become more susceptible to canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD). CCD is similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans. 

To keep that brain working and that tail wagging, try new activities and tricks to keep that bond going strong. 

Senior dogs can excel at swimming,or get masses of health benefits from a good puzzle game. Ensure they are exploring lots of new places with their nose or meeting other furry friends on a regular basis too!  

4. Supplement their joints

The same analysis found a correlation between joint issues and death risk. This makes keeping your dog moving even more important. So can supplements help your pup feel more limber? Studies are saying yes!

• Glucosamine hydrochloride has shown some promise for improvements in pain, severity and weight-bearing for dogs that struggle with movement.
• Boswellia serrata is a tree extract that has shown a reduction in pain for osteoarthritic dogs.
• Omega-3 fatty acids have always been associated with healthy joints.The kinds found in wild fish are most beneficial for dogs.

If you notice your pooch feeling a little stiff, it’s worth asking your vet about the options listed above. 

5. Create a calm environment

The same review found that trauma played a big part in a dog's longevity. 

Events such as being housed in shelters contributed to a higher risk of early death, most likely due to the high-stress levels that can come with these kinds of events. Other research backs up this idea, suggesting that the stress of living with a fear or anxiety disorder can have negative effects on the health and lifespan of your pooch. 

So if your pup is struggling with separation anxiety or other fears, or they had a difficult start in life, getting them some behavioral help and giving them a calm home could make a big difference to their longevity. 

Techniques that have been shown to reduce stress in dogs include the use of positive training methods, massage, music therapy, and of course lots of quality time with their favorite person - you!