All about Australian Mountain Dog dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Australian Mountain Dog" Breed (parent breeds: "Australian Shepherd" × "Bernese Mountain Dog")

The average weight for an Australian Mountain Dog is between 65 to 90 pounds.Healthy weight for Australian Mountain Dog adults typically ranges from:* Males: 70-90 pounds* Females: 65-85 poundsThis variation in Australian Mountain Dog weight reflects the size differences often seen between genders, with males generally being larger and heavier. Prospective owners should ensure their dog maintains a healthy weight for Australian Mountain Dog through proper diet and exercise.

Wondering how tall is an Australian Mountain Dog? On average, the Australian Mountain Dog height typically ranges from 23 to 28 inches at the shoulder for adult dogs. This hybrid breed, combining the Australian Shepherd and Bernese Mountain Dog, results in a sturdy and moderately large canine.

Australian Mountain Dog Colors:The Australian Mountain Dog, a hybrid of the Australian Shepherd and Bernese Mountain Dog, showcases a diverse range of coat colors. While no major kennel clubs like the AKC officially recognize this designer breed, we can derive common and potential color variations based on its parent breeds.Expect to see Australian Mountain Dog colors predominantly in combinations of black, white, and tan, mirroring the traditional Bernese Mountain Dog tricolor pattern. Many will exhibit classic black tri-color (black, white, and tan points), and red tri-color (red, white, and tan points).From the Australian Shepherd lineage, you may also find blue merle and red merle patterns, both highly sought after and considered exotic Australian Mountain Dog variations. These merle patterns can come with or without tan points. Solid black and solid red (often referred to as liver or chocolate) with white markings are also possible, though pure solids are less common.Rare coat types that may occasionally appear due to recessive genes from the Australian Shepherd side include dilute colors such as blue (a dilute black) and lilac or isabella (a dilute red/chocolate). While beautiful, these are less common. True brindle and fawn are not typically seen in either parent breed and would be extremely rare, if not impossible, in this cross. Cream or extensive white patching beyond the typical Bernese markings is also possible, especially if a parent Australian Shepherd carries a gene for excessive white.Potential adopters comparing coat types should note that merle patterns, especially blue merle, are often priced higher due to their demand and the striking appearance of their coats and potential for blue eyes. While there are no AKC recognized Australian Mountain Dog colors, understanding the genetics of the parent breeds provides a clear picture of the beautiful and varied coats available in this designer breed.

The Australian Mountain Dog is a captivating blend, inheriting a wonderful mix of traits from its parent breeds, the Australian Shepherd and Bernese Mountain Dog. This breed is generally characterized by a friendly and loyal disposition, making them excellent companions.Their temperament of Australian Mountain Dog often leans towards being highly sociable, enjoying interaction with their human families and often other pets. They are typically good with children, especially when properly socialized from a young age, showcasing a patient and gentle nature. Regarding other pets, with appropriate introductions, they usually coexist peacefully.While adaptability to apartment living can be challenging due to their moderate to high energy levels and a desire for space, an Australian Mountain Dog can potentially adapt to an apartment if they receive substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. However, they truly thrive in homes with yards or access to regular outdoor adventures. They are intelligent dogs who benefit from training and consistent engagement, preventing boredom and ensuring a well-behaved family member. Expect a devoted and affectionate companion who thrives on being part of the family's activities.

The Australian Mountain Dog temperament blends the best of its parent breeds, creating a delightful and adaptable companion. Expect a friendly and highly sociable dog that thrives on human interaction. They are known for their profound loyalty and devotion to their families, often forming strong bonds. While generally good-natured, their activity needs mean they are not ideal for apartment living; a home with a yard is preferred to accommodate their size and energy.

Australian Mountain Dog Care: Your Comprehensive GuideCaring for your Australian Mountain Dog, a wonderful blend of Australian Shepherd and Bernese Mountain Dog, involves understanding their unique needs. This "Australian Mountain Dog care" guide covers essential "daily maintenance" to ensure a happy, healthy companion.Grooming Needs: Expect moderate to high grooming requirements. The Australian Mountain Dog has a dense double coat that sheds year-round, with heavier seasonal shedding. Regular brushing (2-3 times per week, daily during shedding seasons) is crucial to prevent mats and reduce loose hair. Professional grooming every 2-3 months for a bath and tidy-up is recommended. Nail trims every 3-4 weeks are also essential.Exercise Limitations: While the Australian Shepherd brings energy, the Bernese Mountain Dog influence often results in a dog with moderate energy levels. They are not typically a "low-energy dog breed" but also not as high-strung as some purebred Aussies. Daily walks (30-60 minutes), playtime in a secured yard, and mental stimulation through training or puzzle toys are generally sufficient. Avoid strenuous exercise during hot weather, especially due to their double coat.Dietary Considerations: A high-quality dog food formulated for large breeds with moderate energy levels is vital. Monitor calorie intake to prevent obesity, a common concern. Divide meals into two servings daily. Consult your vet for specific portion sizes based on your dog's age, weight, and activity level. Fresh water should always be available.Wrinkle and Ear Cleaning: The Bernese Mountain Dog heritage can introduce some facial wrinkles, particularly around the muzzle, and pendulous ears. Regularly clean any wrinkles with a damp cloth to prevent skin irritation and infections. Check and clean ears weekly with a vet-approved ear cleaner to prevent wax buildup and reduce the risk of ear infections.Climate Sensitivity: The Australian Mountain Dog's thick double coat provides insulation, making them more tolerant of cooler climates. However, they are highly sensitive to heat. Avoid exercising during the hottest parts of the day, provide ample shade and fresh water, and never leave them in a hot car. Their brachycephalic (short-nosed) ancestry from some Bernese lines can also make them more prone to heatstroke and breathing difficulties in warm weather, so always be vigilant.Common Health Concerns & "Health Tips for Australian Mountain Dog": Be aware of potential health issues. Due to their parent breeds, they can be predisposed to hip and elbow dysplasia, certain cancers, and bloat. Regular veterinary check-ups are paramount. "Skin issues" can arise from allergies or lack of proper grooming, so monitor their coat and skin. "Dental care" is vital; brush their teeth several times a week and consider dental chews. "Weight management" is a key health tip; obesity can exacerbate joint problems and other health concerns. Consult your veterinarian for a proactive health plan and advice on preventative care.

Australian Mountain Dog Activity Level

I'd rate the "Size" trait of the Australian Mountain Dog a 9 out of 10. This breed is undeniably large. As a hybrid of the Australian Shepherd and the Bernese Mountain Dog, it inherits the substantial bone structure and overall mass of the latter, a true giant breed. While Australian Shepherds are medium-sized, the Bernese Mountain Dog's influence typically results in a dog weighing between 70 to 120 pounds and standing over 23 inches at the shoulder, sometimes reaching up to 27 inches. They have a sturdy, well-muscled, and often broad build. Due to their significant size and need for space, the Australian Mountain Dog is generally not well-suited for apartment living, frequent travel, or households with space constraints. They thrive in homes with a spacious yard and ample room to move around, making them a better fit for suburban or rural environments.

I would rate the grooming requirements of the Australian Mountain Dog as an 8 out of 10.This breed inherits traits from both the Australian Shepherd and the Bernese Mountain Dog, both of which are double-coated breeds with significant grooming needs. The Australian Mountain Dog will have a thick, medium-to-long double coat that sheds moderately to heavily year-round, with seasonal "blows" where shedding becomes even more profuse. This necessitates frequent brushing, at least 3-4 times a week, to prevent matting, tangles, and to manage the shedding. Without regular brushing, the undercoat can easily become impacted and lead to skin irritation.While they typically don't have excessive skin folds requiring specialized daily care, their thick coats can trap moisture, increasing the risk of hot spots or other skin issues if not properly dried after baths or swimming. Ear cleaning will be a routine requirement, as their ears can trap dirt and moisture, making them prone to infections. Nail trimming will also need to be done regularly, typically every 2-4 weeks, as long nails can cause discomfort and lead to foot problems. Bathing will be needed as required, perhaps every 4-8 weeks, depending on their activity level and how dirty they get, and requires thorough drying due to their dense coat. Compared to many other companion dogs, the Australian Mountain Dog requires frequent, dedicated, and sometimes specialized grooming attention to maintain their coat and overall skin health, making them a high-maintenance breed in this regard.

I would rate the Australian Mountain Dog's exercise requirements as a 7 out of 10.This rating reflects the blend of its parent breeds. The Australian Shepherd contributes a significant amount of energy and a strong drive to work and move, requiring substantial daily activity to stay mentally stimulated and physically fit. They thrive on structured exercise, extended walks, runs, and dog sports like agility or herding. The Bernese Mountain Dog, while generally more laid-back as an adult, still benefits from regular, moderate exercise to maintain muscle tone and prevent obesity. They enjoy walks and outdoor adventures.The Australian Mountain Dog will likely inherit a moderate to high energy level, making them more than just a couch potato. They will thrive on daily, structured exercise routines that include more than just a short walk around the block. They'll need a good mix of longer walks or jogs, active playtime in a secure yard, and opportunities for mental stimulation through training or puzzle toys. While not typically suited for extreme endurance sports due to the Bernese influence, they will likely have good tolerance for sustained movement and enjoy being active companions. Their lack of brachycephalic anatomy means no inherent respiratory limitations, allowing them to engage in vigorous activity without undue concern. This breed would not do well with minimal activity and would likely become bored, destructive, or develop behavioral issues without sufficient physical and mental outlets.

I would rate the Australian Mountain Dog's watchdog ability a 7 out of 10. This breed inherits a strong sense of alertness and territoriality from both parent breeds. Australian Shepherds are renowned for their vigilance and keen awareness of their surroundings, often quick to bark at anything out of the ordinary. Bernese Mountain Dogs, while generally friendly, possess a natural protective instinct and a deep bark that can be very effective at deterring unfamiliar individuals. Therefore, an Australian Mountain Dog is likely to be quite attentive to strange sounds or people approaching the home and will almost certainly provide meaningful early warnings through consistent and authoritative barking. They are less likely to be a purely passive companion in this regard and more inclined to vocalize their concerns, making them capable of providing a significant deterrent. However, their generally friendly and good-natured temperament, especially once an individual is deemed non-threatening, means they might not be as overtly aggressive in confrontation as some dedicated protection breeds, which is why it's not a perfect 10. They excel at alerting and deterring through sound and presence rather than outright aggression.

I would rate the "Good with Other Dogs" trait of the Australian Mountain Dog a 7 out of 10.This rating reflects the generally sociable and adaptable nature inherited from both parent breeds, but also acknowledges the need for proper socialization and understanding of individual temperaments. Both Australian Shepherds and Bernese Mountain Dogs typically possess a friendly disposition. Australian Shepherds, while sometimes exhibiting a herding instinct towards other dogs, are generally playful and enjoy canine company, especially with adequate exercise and mental stimulation. Bernese Mountain Dogs are renowned for their gentle and amiable nature, often getting along well with a wide range of dogs, from small to large, and across different energy levels.Therefore, an Australian Mountain Dog, with proper early socialization, is likely to be quite dog-friendly and adaptable in multi-dog households. They will generally enjoy canine companionship and can thrive in environments with other dogs, provided they have been exposed to various breeds, sizes, and temperaments from a young age. However, without adequate socialization, the herding instinct from the Australian Shepherd side could manifest as nipping or trying to "control" other dogs, or a more reserved nature could emerge. While outright aggression is uncommon, dominance behaviors could arise in poorly socialized individuals. Careful introductions are always recommended, especially with unfamiliar dogs, to ensure a smooth transition and prevent any potential misunderstandings. Overall, the Australian Mountain Dog tends to thrive in canine company, but like any breed, individual personalities vary, making consistent positive reinforcement and exposure to other dogs crucial for them to reach their full potential as sociable companions.

The Australian Mountain Dog, a hybrid of the Australian Shepherd and Bernese Mountain Dog, would likely rate a 7 out of 10 for the "Energetic" trait.This rating reflects a breed that is generally quite active and playful, but not to the extreme of, say, a purebred Australian Shepherd or Border Collie. The Australian Shepherd parent contributes a significant drive for activity, intelligence, and a need for mental and physical stimulation. They possess good endurance and a natural inclination towards herding and working tasks. However, the Bernese Mountain Dog parent brings a more laid-back, gentle, and ultimately lower-energy temperament to the mix. Bernese are known for being strong but also enjoying their downtime and being less intensely driven for constant activity.Therefore, an Australian Mountain Dog will typically be naturally active, enjoying long walks, hikes, and various forms of play. They will have good endurance for outdoor activities and will thrive with regular exercise and opportunities to engage their minds. They are certainly not a "couch potato" breed and will require consistent physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. However, they are also likely to appreciate relaxation time with their families and won't demand the constant, high-intensity exercise that some other working breeds require. Their energy level will be higher than many companion dogs but probably not as ceaseless as a purebred Aussie.Regarding brachycephalic anatomy, it's important to note that neither the Australian Shepherd nor the Bernese Mountain Dog are considered brachycephalic breeds. Therefore, the Australian Mountain Dog would not typically inherit the respiratory challenges or exercise limitations associated with brachycephaly. They should generally have good stamina and exercise tolerance without the concerns of obstructed breathing, allowing them to participate robustly in outdoor and athletic activities without this specific anatomical impediment.

I'd rate the Australian Mountain Dog's "Training Requirements" a 7 out of 10.This breed presents a moderate to high training demand, making them not ideal for first-time dog owners unless they are prepared for a significant commitment to training and socialization. While intelligent, inherited from both parent breeds, the Australian Mountain Dog also has the potential for stubbornness, particularly from the Bernese side, and the Australian Shepherd's independent streak can sometimes manifest as a challenge to consistent attention.Their intelligence means they can learn quickly, but it also means they can learn undesirable behaviors just as fast if not properly guided. Their attention span can vary; they are not typically hyper-focused on their handler without consistent engagement. Responsiveness to commands will be good with a strong foundation and positive reinforcement, but can wane if training is inconsistent or boring.A high degree of consistency is paramount. They thrive on structured routines and clear expectations. Positive reinforcement is highly effective and essential for building a strong bond and a confident, well-behaved dog. Harsh methods will likely lead to resistance and can damage their trusting nature. Early and extensive socialization is also crucial to prevent potential shyness or reactivity, given the guarding instincts of both parent breeds. Owners should be prepared to invest considerable time and effort in daily training sessions, puzzle toys, and mental stimulation to keep their intelligent minds engaged and prevent boredom-induced behaviors.

I'd rate the "Playful" trait of the Australian Mountain Dog a solid 8. This breed inherits a fantastic blend of playfulness from its parents. The Australian Shepherd brings a high-octane, intelligent, and game-loving spirit, always ready for a new challenge or a vigorous romp. The Bernese Mountain Dog, while generally more laid-back, still possesses a very affectionate and good-natured playfulness, especially in their younger years, enjoying gentle games and interaction with their family. The Australian Mountain Dog typically leans more towards the spirited end of the spectrum, eagerly engaging in games of fetch, tug-of-war, and even learning new tricks. They thrive on interaction and attention, often seeking out their owners for playtime or a good cuddle. While not as constantly "on" as some herding breeds, they have a deep well of enthusiasm for daily activities and a strong response to toys, making them wonderfully interactive and fun-loving companions. They are more naturally spirited than laid-back compared to many other companion dogs, always up for an adventure or a good play session.

I would rate the "Affectionate" trait of the Australian Mountain Dog at a 9 out of 10.This breed, a mix of the Australian Shepherd and Bernese Mountain Dog, typically inherits a strong desire for human companionship and a deeply loving nature. Bernese Mountain Dogs are renowned for their gentle and devoted temperaments, often described as "velcro dogs" who thrive on being close to their families, and this trait is usually very prominent in their mixes. Australian Shepherds, while possessing a strong work drive, are also very people-oriented and form strong bonds with their owners. Consequently, the Australian Mountain Dog tends to be highly affectionate, seeking out physical closeness through cuddling and often attempting to be a lap dog despite their size. They are extremely loyal and sensitive to their owner's emotions, often acting as comforters. This breed will very likely follow family members from room to room, preferring to be part of the action. They truly thrive on affection and human interaction, making them less independent than many other companion breeds and more akin to a constant, loving shadow.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the Australian Mountain Dog a 7 out of 10.The Australian Mountain Dog, a cross between the intelligent and often high-energy Australian Shepherd and the gentle, loyal Bernese Mountain Dog, typically inherits a good foundation for being agreeable with other pets. The Bernese Mountain Dog parent brings a naturally calm and tolerant disposition, often excelling in multi-pet households due to its lower prey drive and generally docile nature. The Australian Shepherd, while intelligent and eager to please, can sometimes exhibit stronger herding instincts towards smaller animals, including cats, and may have a higher prey drive than the Bernese.Therefore, the Australian Mountain Dog generally falls into a category where they are naturally sociable, but successful coexistence with other pets often requires early and consistent socialization. With proper introduction and training from a young age, most Australian Mountain Dogs can learn to live peacefully with other dogs and cats. Their intelligence makes them trainable, and their desire to be part of the family means they are generally keen to please their owners, even when it comes to sharing their space. However, potential owners should be mindful of the possible presence of herding tendencies from the Australian Shepherd side, which might manifest as nudging or attempting to "herd" other pets, particularly cats, though this is usually playful rather than aggressive. Resource guarding is not typically a prominent issue with this cross, especially with appropriate management, but good training practices are always beneficial. While they are often very adaptable, supervision, especially during initial introductions, is always recommended to ensure a harmonious multi-pet environment.

I'd rate the Australian Mountain Dog's "Good with Children" trait a strong 8 out of 10.This rating reflects the best characteristics of its parent breeds. The Bernese Mountain Dog brings a natural, gentle giant disposition, known for its patience, calm demeanor, and inherent affection towards children. They are typically very tolerant of noise and the occasional clumsy handling from little ones. The Australian Shepherd, while having a higher energy level, also possesses a loyal and intelligent nature, and when well-socialized, is playful and eager to be part of the family unit.The Australian Mountain Dog is likely to be naturally gentle and affectionate, possessing a protective yet tolerant instinct towards children. They will be playful companions, happy to engage in games in the yard. However, due to the Australian Shepherd's herding instinct and the sheer size potential from the Bernese, training and supervision are still important, especially with very young children. Early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training will ensure they thrive in a family setting, teaching them appropriate play boundaries and reinforcing their naturally good temperament. While generally good-natured, their size means supervision is always wise to prevent accidental knocking over of small children during boisterous play.

The Australian Mountain Dog, a cross between the Australian Shepherd and Bernese Mountain Dog, would likely rate a 7 out of 10 for its "Good with Strangers" trait. This breed tends to be friendly and approachable with unfamiliar adults, inheriting the Bernese's gentle and sociable nature and the Australian Shepherd's desire to be involved with its "pack," which can extend to accepted new people. While not typically reserved or unfriendly, they aren't usually overtly effusive or indiscriminately welcoming like some golden retrievers might be. They are generally polite and curious, often taking a moment to assess a new person before offering more robust affection. Barking or guarding might occur out of initial uncertainty or a protective instinct from the Australian Shepherd side if they perceive a threat, but it's not a dominant characteristic when properly socialized. They are adaptable in public or guest-filled environments once they understand the situation is safe and their people are relaxed, generally enjoying the attention. While naturally inclined to be friendly, consistent early socialization and exposure to various people and environments are still beneficial to ensure they are comfortable and confident, rather than merely tolerant, around strangers.

I'd rate the Winter tolerance of the Australian Mountain Dog (Australian Shepherd × Bernese Mountain Dog) a 9 out of 10.This breed is likely to possess excellent cold-weather resilience, drawing heavily from the Bernese Mountain Dog's heritage. Their coat will typically be thick and dense, often a double coat, providing substantial insulation against cold temperatures. While the Australian Shepherd contributes a somewhat less robust coat, the Bernese influence will dominate in terms of cold tolerance. Their larger size means a lower surface area to volume ratio, which helps in retaining body heat, and they are generally well-muscled with a good amount of body fat, further contributing to insulation. Brachycephalic anatomy is not a characteristic of either parent breed, so they won't have the associated breathing difficulties that can be exacerbated by cold, dry air. The risk of hypothermia would be significantly lower than many other companion dogs, and they should be able to safely enjoy extended outdoor activity in cold climates, including snow. Compared to many other companion dogs, the Australian Mountain Dog would require minimal special care during winter months, largely being able to thrive in cold conditions where other breeds might shiver or need frequent indoor breaks. They may even prefer colder weather for outdoor activities.

I would rate the Australian Mountain Dog's summer tolerance at a 4.While not as severely heat-sensitive as some brachycephalic breeds, the Australian Mountain Dog, with its Bernese Mountain Dog lineage, inherits a dense double coat and a predisposition towards being uncomfortable in heat. The Australian Shepherd parent also possesses a double coat, although typically less thick than the Bernese. Neither parent breed is particularly known for high heat tolerance; in fact, both can struggle in hot, humid conditions.This breed lacks any brachycephalic anatomy, which is a positive, but their thick insulation significantly hinders their ability to efficiently regulate body temperature in warm weather. They are at a moderate to high risk of heatstroke, especially during activity or if left unsupervised in the heat. Their recommended outdoor activity levels during summer should be significantly curtailed, limited to early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are cooler. They will absolutely require special care in summer months compared to many other companion dogs, including access to air conditioning, ample shade, constant fresh water, and avoiding strenuous exercise. They are not a breed that can thrive outdoors in hot climates.

I would rate the "Healthiness" trait of the Australian Mountain Dog as a 6 out of 10.While designer breeds often boast hybrid vigor, the Australian Mountain Dog is a cross of two breeds, the Australian Shepherd and the Bernese Mountain Dog, both of which have significant genetic predispositions to certain health issues. Australian Shepherds are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, various eye conditions (including Collie Eye Anomaly and Progressive Retinal Atrophy), and drug sensitivities due to the MDR1 gene mutation. Bernese Mountain Dogs are unfortunately known for a relatively short life expectancy due to a high incidence of various cancers (histiocytic sarcoma, mast cell tumors, lymphosarcoma), as well as joint problems (hip and elbow dysplasia), bloat, and Von Willebrand's disease.The Australian Mountain Dog will likely inherit a mix of these predispositions. While some individuals may benefit from the genetic diversity, they are still at risk for developing these serious conditions. Joint problems, particularly hip and elbow dysplasia, are a significant concern given both parent breeds' tendencies. Cancer risk, inherited from the Bernese side, also lowers the overall health rating. Responsible breeding, including thorough health clearances of parent dogs, is absolutely crucial to mitigate these risks. However, even with diligent breeding, the inherent genetic baggage from the parent breeds means they aren't considered an exceptionally healthy or resilient breed. They are generally more robust than a purebred Bernese Mountain Dog, but certainly not as consistently healthy as some other companion dogs with fewer significant genetic predispositions. Therefore, they are considered moderate-to-high maintenance in terms of health, requiring proactive veterinary care and a vigilant owner.

I would rate the "Protective" trait of the Australian Mountain Dog as an 8 out of 10.This breed inherits a strong sense of loyalty and a watchful nature from both parent breeds. The Australian Shepherd contributes alertness and a keen sense of its surroundings, often making it quick to notice anything out of the ordinary. The Bernese Mountain Dog, while gentle, has a history as a farm guardian and possesses a naturally imposing presence and a deep devotion to its family.Australian Mountain Dogs are typically very loyal to their owners and their household, and they will instinctively feel a need to protect their "flock." They are generally alert to strangers approaching their territory and will often make their presence known through barking or a watchful stance. While not typically aggressive, their size and the low, rumbling bark they can produce are often enough to deter unwanted visitors. They are highly capable as watchdogs, providing a vocal alert and an imposing visual deterrent. While their primary role in most households is that of a loving companion, their inherent protective instincts and physical presence mean they are indeed capable of offering meaningful protection in a household setting, especially by alerting owners and acting as a strong deterrent. They are not typically "attack dogs" but will stand their ground and can be quite formidable if they perceive a genuine threat to their family.

I would rate the "Life Span" trait of the Australian Mountain Dog as a 6.The Australian Mountain Dog is likely to be an average-lived breed compared to other companion dogs. This rating considers the lifespans of its parent breeds: the Australian Shepherd typically lives 12-15 years, while the Bernese Mountain Dog has a significantly shorter average lifespan of 6-8 years. While the Australian Shepherd contributes genes for a longer life, the Bernese Mountain Dog's genetic predispositions to cancers and other health issues will likely pull down the average for the Australian Mountain Dog. Responsible breeding practices aimed at screening for common health concerns in both parent breeds (such as hip and elbow dysplasia, certain cancers, and eye conditions) can help mitigate some risks, and good care will always contribute to a longer life. However, the presence of the Bernese Mountain Dog's shorter lifespan genes prevents it from reaching the higher longevity ratings.