We have a 13 1/2 year old dog (Rocky), poodle-mix, in great health, weighs 7-8 pounds. The Mrs. is getting worried about how long he might be around. She got him 11.5 years ago from a shelter where he was in rough shape (3#, full grown) and was estimated to be 2 y/o at the time. Since then, he has lived an increasingly pampered life. He gets dog walks during the week, sleeps on a down comforter, gets lots of love, and understands when presents are for him. I take him for 5k runs, we do 10 minute miles including bathroom stops. Per my wife, he is the best and cutest dog in the world.
Yesterday, for instance, we went for a 9-mile hike, which included 1,700 feet of elevation gain. We had to carry him for a few short stretches on the incline b/c it was sunny and he was getting warm (he is probably due for a haircut). After dunking him in a few cold creeks, he went strong the rest of the way, practically dragging my wife at times.
Anyway, just curious about everyone's experience with the lifespan of small, fit dogs. The Mrs. is trying to talk me into getting another dog b/c she doesn't want to be without a dog. Below are the mandatory pictures.
There are three kinds of people, those who can count, and those who can't.
Yesterday, for instance, we went for a 9-mile hike, which included 1,700 feet of elevation gain. We had to carry him for a few short stretches on the incline b/c it was sunny and he was getting warm (he is probably due for a haircut). After dunking him in a few cold creeks, he went strong the rest of the way, practically dragging my wife at times.
Anyway, just curious about everyone's experience with the lifespan of small, fit dogs. The Mrs. is trying to talk me into getting another dog b/c she doesn't want to be without a dog. Below are the mandatory pictures.
There are three kinds of people, those who can count, and those who can't.