Little dogs outlive big dogs — now, scientists can explain why

Ruff news for some dog owners.

Scientists have uncovered why little pooches tend to outlive big pups.

In a University of Washington study published in PLOS ONE, researchers learned that while canines of all sizes suffer from a similar number of health conditions, larger breeds tend to experience more severe ailments.

“These results provide insights into the disease categories that may contribute to reduced lifespan in larger dogs and suggest multiple further avenues for further exploration,” the authors said in a statement.

The longevity of the more diminutive dog has long been appreciated — but experts have been unable to explain why.

A team of researchers spread out across the United States analyzed data from over 25,000 puppers, including 238 breeds. 

The study found that larger dogs are prone to cancer, bone-related diseases, gastrointestinal problems, neurological and endocrine conditions, ears, nose, and throat issues, and infectious diseases.

Meanwhile, smaller dogs are more likely to suffer from ocular, cardiac, and respiratory issues, along with liver or pancreatic diseases.

However, size did not significantly affect the occurrence of kidney or urinary diseases.

The findings held when accounting for enviromental factors.

The researchers were sure to note that the results did not confirm a causal link between dog size, age, and disease, but suggested that more research be done, in order to understand the connection fur real.

The news comes as a scandal has taken over the world of record-breaking dogs, leading to the Guinness World Records temporarily pawsing applications for both the oldest living and oldest ever, The Post can confirm.

Bobi was said to be 30 years and 266 days old as of February 1, 2023, when Guinness certified him as the new record holder in both of those both categories.

However, some have recently questioned Bobi’s credentials.