All about West Highland Doxie dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "West Highland Doxie" Breed (parent breeds: "Dachshund" × "West Highland White Terrier")

The average West Highland Doxie weight is typically between 16 and 28 pounds. This designer breed, a cross between a Dachshund and a West Highland White Terrier, generally falls into the small to medium size category. Males tend to be slightly heavier, averaging 18-28 pounds, while females typically range from 16-25 pounds. Maintaining a healthy weight for West Highland Doxie is crucial for their well-being, so monitoring their diet and exercise is recommended to ensure they stay within this typical average size range.

West Highland Doxie Height: What to Expect for Your Furry Friend

• Parental Genetics: The size of the individual Dachshund and West Highland White Terrier parents plays a significant role. If the parents were on the larger or smaller end of their respective breed standards, their West Highland Doxie offspring may reflect this.
• Gender: While not a drastic difference, male West Highland Doxies might sometimes be slightly taller or more robust than females, although this isn't a hard and fast rule.
• Individual Variation: Just like people, every dog is unique! Even within the same litter, you might see slight differences in height and build.

The West Highland Doxie, a delightful mix of Dachshund and West Highland White Terrier, can display a diverse range of colors inherited from both parent breeds.Common and AKC-Accepted Dachshund Colors (potentially seen in West Highland Doxies):West Highland Doxie colors often include black and tan, red (various shades from light to deep red), cream, wheaten (a pale yellow or fawn), and brindle (stripes of dark hair on a lighter background). Chocolate and tan is also a popular variation. Dapple (merle) patterns, while striking, can be associated with health concerns in Dachshunds, particularly when two dapple parents are bred together. Piebald (large patches of white with one or more other colors) is another recognized pattern.West Highland White Terrier Colors (impacting West Highland Doxie colors):The Westie parent exclusively contributes white or cream genes. Therefore, a West Highland Doxie can also be predominantly white or cream, or have a mix of these with other Dachshund colors.Rare and Exotic West Highland Doxie Variations:While not typically recognized by the AKC for either parent breed, some breeders may produce rare West Highland Doxie colors or exotic West Highland Doxie variations such as blue and tan (diluted black), isabella and tan (diluted chocolate), or lilac. These rare coat types are often due to recessive genes and can command higher prices due to their rarity. It's crucial for potential adopters to research breeders carefully when considering these less common colors, as some dilutes can be linked to coat and skin issues. The AKC recognized West Highland Doxie colors primarily reflect the standard colors of the Dachshund. Always prioritize health and temperament over specific West Highland Doxie colors when choosing your new companion.

West Highland Doxie Personality & TemperamentThe West Highland Doxie, a charming cross between the Dachshund and West Highland White Terrier, inherits a delightful blend of traits. Expect a friendly and loyal companion, often displaying a playful and curious nature. These adaptable dogs are generally sociable, enjoying interaction with their human families and often other well-behaved pets.Regarding living arrangements, their moderate size and typically low to moderate energy levels make them quite adaptable to apartment living, provided they receive regular walks and mental stimulation. They thrive on companionship and may become anxious if left alone for extended periods.With children, a West Highland Doxie can be a wonderful family pet, especially with older, respectful children who understand how to interact with a small dog. Early socialization and consistent, positive reinforcement training are key to ensuring harmonious relationships. They can coexist peacefully with other pets, particularly if introduced properly and raised together. However, due to their terrier and hound instincts, a strong prey drive may be present, requiring supervision with smaller animals. Overall, the temperament of a West Highland Doxie is often described as affectionate, spirited, and devoted, making them a fantastic addition to many homes.

The West Highland Doxie temperament blends the best of both parent breeds, resulting in a charming and spirited companion dog. They are typically friendly and sociable, eager to engage with their human family. Expect a loyal and affectionate canine, often forming strong bonds. Their size makes them highly adaptable to apartment living, provided they receive sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation.With children, West Highland Doxies can be playful and good-natured, though supervision is always recommended, especially with very young children, to ensure gentle interactions. They generally get along well with other pets, particularly if socialized from a young age.Owners should be prepared for a streak of stubbornness, a characteristic inherited from both the Dachshund and Westie. Consistent, positive reinforcement training is key. They can also exhibit a degree of sensitivity, responding best to gentle guidance rather than harsh correction. Despite their small stature, they possess a surprisingly big personality and can be alert watchdogs. Overall, the West Highland Doxie is an engaging, intelligent, and devoted pet for families seeking a lively and loving addition to their home. Their personality traits make them excellent family dogs and faithful companions.

West Highland Doxie Care: Your Daily Maintenance GuideCaring for your West Highland Doxie involves understanding the needs inherited from both the Dachshund and West Highland White Terrier. This crossbreed is a charming companion, but consistent daily maintenance is key to their well-being.Grooming Needs: Expect moderate grooming. Their coat is typically wiry like a Westie or a mix of wiry and smooth/short like a Dachshund. Regular brushing (2-3 times a week) is essential to prevent matting, especially if they have longer or double coats. Occasional professional grooming may be needed for stripping or trimming, particularly if their coat is more Westie-like. Bathe as needed, typically every 4-6 weeks, using a dog-specific shampoo. Don't forget nail trims every 2-4 weeks to prevent discomfort and overgrowth.Exercise Limitations: While playful, the West Highland Doxie is generally a low-energy dog breed. Two short daily walks (15-20 minutes each) and some indoor playtime are usually sufficient. Due to their Dachshund parentage, be mindful of their elongated back. Avoid excessive jumping, climbing stairs, or rough play that could strain their spine. Leash walks are crucial to prevent them from chasing small animals.Dietary Considerations: Feed a high-quality, age-appropriate dog food. Portion control is vital as this breed can be prone to weight gain, leading to spinal problems and other health issues. Follow your veterinarian's recommendations for feeding amounts. Fresh water should always be available.Wrinkle and Ear Cleaning: Depending on their facial structure, some West Highland Doxies may have slight wrinkles, especially around the muzzle. Clean these folds regularly with a damp cloth to prevent skin irritation and infections. Their ears, whether floppy or erect, require weekly cleaning with a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner to prevent wax buildup and ear infections.Climate Sensitivity (Brachycephalic Considerations): While not typically a true brachycephalic breed, some West Highland Doxies may inherit a shorter snout from their Westie side, making them somewhat sensitive to extreme temperatures. Avoid strenuous exercise during hot weather, and always provide shade and fresh water. Monitor them for signs of overheating, such as excessive panting. Similarly, in very cold weather, provide a coat to protect them.Common Health Concerns & Health Tips for West Highland Doxie: Be aware of potential health issues. Skin issues (allergies, skin infections) are common, especially if they have Westie-like skin. Regular dental care, including brushing their teeth several times a week, is crucial to prevent periodontal disease. Weight management is paramount due to their predisposition to back problems (Intervertebral Disc Disease - IVDD) inherited from the Dachshund side. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection and management of these and other potential conditions. Talk to your vet about appropriate flea, tick, and heartworm prevention.

West Highland Doxie Activity Level & Exercise NeedsThe West Highland Doxie is a delightful designer breed blending the spunky Dachshund with the spirited West Highland White Terrier. Their activity level is generally moderate, offering a good balance of playful energy and relaxed downtime. They are not typically couch potatoes, but neither are they hyperactive.Expect your West Highland Doxie to enjoy short bursts of enthusiastic play and exploration, followed by satisfying naps. Daily exercise needs include at least 30-60 minutes of active time. This can be divided into two or three shorter walks, play sessions in a securely fenced yard, or indoor games like fetch. They are keen on sniffing out interesting scents, making leashed walks in varied environments particularly enriching.While they enjoy a good romp, the West Highland Doxie also appreciates cozy cuddle sessions and downtime with their family. Their playtime preferences often involve toys they can chase, chew, or "hunt," reflecting their terrier and hound heritage. They are generally adaptable to their family's routine, happy to join in on adventures or relax by your side.It's crucial to note that like their Dachshund parent, some West Highland Doxie may inherit some degree of brachycephalic (short-nosed) features. While not as pronounced as in breeds like the Pug, this can sometimes limit their endurance during strenuous exercise, especially in hot or humid weather. Always monitor your West Highland Doxie for signs of overheating or respiratory distress, and avoid overexertion.So, how active are West Highland Doxie? They strike a pleasant medium. They can be a good fit for both moderately active families who enjoy daily walks and playtime, and slightly lower-energy households willing to commit to consistent, moderate exercise. They are excellent companions for individuals or families seeking a dog that is engaged and playful without requiring hours of intense activity. They thrive on companionship and mental stimulation, making them a joy to train and interact with.

I'd rate the "Size" trait of the West Highland Doxie a 4.This hybrid leans towards the smaller end of the spectrum, inheriting its compact build from both the Dachshund and the West Highland White Terrier. While it might be slightly stockier than a purebred Dachshund due to the Westie influence, it remains a firmly small to medium-small dog. Average weight typically falls between 15-25 pounds, with a height ranging from 8-11 inches at the shoulder. Their body structure is elongated, typical of the Dachshund, but with a bit more substance from the Westie. Compared to other companion dogs, they are definitely on the smaller side, easily dwarfed by breeds like Golden Retrievers or even standard Beagles. This size makes them an excellent candidate for apartment living, as they don't require vast amounts of space. Their portability also makes them well-suited for travel, fitting comfortably in carrier bags designed for small dogs. For households with space constraints, the West Highland Doxie is an ideal choice, offering the companionship of a dog without demanding a large footprint.

I would rate the grooming requirements of a West Highland Doxie a 7.This hybrid breed inherits characteristics from both parent breeds, and while the Dachshund can be relatively low-maintenance depending on its coat, the West Highland White Terrier definitely leans towards the higher end. The Westie influence typically results in a wiry topcoat and a softer undercoat, which is prone to matting and requires regular brushing, ideally daily or every other day, to prevent tangles and remove dead hair. While not a heavy shedder, the Westie coat does "blow" its undercoat seasonally. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for stripping or clipping is often recommended to maintain coat health and appearance. Ear cleaning will be a regular necessity due to their floppy or semi-erect ears and susceptibility to infections. Nail trimming will be standard, but bathing will likely be more frequent than a short-coated Dachshund due to the texture and potential for dirt to cling to the Westie-like fur. Both breeds can be prone to allergies and skin issues, so a keen eye for irritation and potential specialized grooming products might be needed. Overall, the West Highland Doxie will be more demanding than an easy-care, short-haired dog, requiring consistent at-home grooming and professional attention to keep their coat and skin healthy.

I would rate the Exercise Requirements of the West Highland Doxie at a 6. This hybrid generally possesses moderate energy levels, inheriting a blend of the Dachshund's surprisingly enduring but often laid-back nature and the Westie's more active, terrier-typical zest. They thrive with daily activity, not necessarily needing intensely structured routines, but certainly benefiting from consistent engagement. Daily walks of at least 30-45 minutes, perhaps split into two sessions, are usually sufficient to keep them physically fit and mentally stimulated. Their short legs mean they aren't built for marathons, but they enjoy exploring and sniffing, and their intelligence from both parent breeds means they benefit from interactive playtime and puzzle toys to prevent boredom. While they don't typically have the extreme physical demands of a high-energy working breed, they are far from a couch potato and will become restless and potentially destructive if their exercise needs are neglected. Brachycephalic concerns are generally minimal with this mix, as neither parent breed is truly brachycephalic, so respiratory limitations are not a primary factor in their exercise capacity. They are generally adaptable to various types of exercise, from leisurely strolls to engaging in moderate playtime, and some may even enjoy beginner-level agility or scent work.

I would rate the "Watchdog Ability" of the West Highland Doxie at an 8 out of 10.This rating stems from the combined traits of its parent breeds. The Dachshund is well-known for its alertness and surprisingly loud, persistent bark, often triggered by any unusual sound or sight. They possess strong territorial instincts despite their size and are not shy about letting you know when something is amiss. The West Highland White Terrier, while also small, is equally assertive and possesses a keen sense of awareness, barking readily at strangers approaching their home or unfamiliar noises. Therefore, the West Highland Doxie is very likely to inherit this strong propensity for vigilance. They will be highly alert to their surroundings, quick to bark at perceived threats or unfamiliar individuals, and generally demonstrate a strong protective instinct towards their home and family. While their size means they are unlikely to physically deter a determined intruder, their persistent and loud barking would undoubtedly provide meaningful early warnings, making them effective "alarm systems" within a home environment rather than purely passive companions.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Dogs" trait of the West Highland Doxie a 6 out of 10.This rating reflects a breed that, while generally capable of coexisting peacefully, often requires careful socialization and training to truly thrive in canine company. Both parent breeds, the Dachshund and the West Highland White Terrier, have independent and sometimes assertive streaks. Dachshunds, originally bred to hunt badgers, can exhibit a strong prey drive and a tendency towards bossiness with other dogs, especially those they perceive as invading their space or resources. Westies, while often friendly, can also be feisty and confident, and may not back down from perceived challenges.Therefore, a West Highland Doxie can be perfectly amiable with other dogs, especially if raised with them from a young age and consistently socialized. They can learn to enjoy play and companionship. However, without proper early exposure to a variety of dogs and continued positive reinforcement, they might display some territoriality, guarding behavior, or even a tendency to instigate if they feel unchallenged. They generally do better with dogs that respect their boundaries and aren't overly boisterous, though with good training, they can adapt to different energy levels. Introductions to unfamiliar dogs should be managed calmly and positively, as they might be prone to sizing up new canine acquaintances before fully accepting them. They can certainly be part of a multi-dog household, but successful integration hinges on consistent training, clear leadership from the owner, and ensuring each dog has their own space and resources to prevent potential squabbles arising from their strong personalities.

I would rate the "Energetic" trait of the West Highland Doxie at a 7.This hybrid tends to inherit a good deal of lively spirit from both its parent breeds. West Highland White Terriers are known for their feisty and playful nature, possessing a surprising amount of stamina for their size, while Dachshunds, despite their often comical appearance, were originally bred for hunting and have a tenacious, often energetic drive, particularly when it comes to exploring and digging. Consequently, the West Highland Doxie is generally a moderately to quite active dog that enjoys regular play and walks. They are typically playful and curious, requiring consistent physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. They have the endurance for daily walks and games in the yard, and many will enthusiastically participate in more extended outdoor activities, though they might not be built for intense, high-impact athletics.It's important to note that while the Dachshund lineage can sometimes introduce a slightly longer snout than more severely brachycephalic breeds, a "Doxie" can still have a shorter muzzle compared to many breeds. This, combined with their elongated back, means care should be taken with intense exercise, especially in hot weather, to avoid overheating and protect their spine. While not truly brachycephalic in the same way a Pug or Bulldog is, their body shape and potential for a somewhat shortened muzzle can still limit their ability to cool themselves efficiently and may affect their stamina and exercise tolerance, particularly during strenuous or prolonged activity, making them more laid-back in extreme conditions compared to a truly athletic breed, but generally quite active for a companion dog.

I would rate the "Training Requirements" of the West Highland Doxie at a 7 out of 10. This hybrid inherits a blend of traits that make training a moderately challenging, but ultimately rewarding, endeavor. Both parent breeds, the Dachshund and the West Highland White Terrier, possess good intelligence, but also a notable independent streak and a degree of stubbornness that can manifest in the offspring. Dachshunds are known for their strong prey drive and single-mindedness, while Westies are confident, feisty, and can be quite willful. This combination means the West Highland Doxie will likely require a consistent and patient approach. Their attention span can vary, but their inherent curiosity and sometimes stubborn nature can lead to them tuning out if training isn't engaging and varied. They are responsive to commands when they understand the expectation and see a benefit for themselves, and positive reinforcement with high-value treats and praise is highly effective. However, they are not a breed that you can train casually; they will test boundaries and require clear, consistent rules from day one. While not impossible for a dedicated beginner, the West Highland Doxie is certainly not beginner-friendly if the owner is not prepared for a structured routine and the commitment to ongoing training and socialization. Experienced handling and an understanding of terrier and hound temperaments will definitely make the training process smoother and more successful.

I'd rate the Playful trait of the West Highland Doxie a 9 out of 10. This breed is typically quite spirited and fun-loving, leaning heavily towards the energetic side thanks to the terrier influence from the Westie and the lively nature of theshund. They thrive on interaction and games, often seeking out playtime with their owners and responding with great enthusiasm to toys and walks. Expect a dog that's constantly ready for a new adventure or a good romp, showcasing a delightful, albeit sometimes boisterous, exuberance in their daily life.

I would rate the Affectionate trait of the West Highland Doxie a 9 out of 10. This hybrid is likely to be an exceptionally loving and people-oriented companion. Both parent breeds contribute significantly to a high desire for human companionship. Dachshunds are famously devoted and often described as "velcro dogs," seeking physical closeness, enjoying lap-sitting, and displaying strong loyalty. West Highland White Terriers, while having a bit more independent spirit typical of terriers, are also known for their affectionate nature with their families, thriving on attention and forming strong bonds. The Westie's alertness often translates to a sensitivity to owner emotions, and they are generally eager to be involved in family activities. Combining these traits, the West Highland Doxie will almost certainly thrive on affection, relishing cuddles and consistently wanting to be in the presence of their loved ones, often following them from room to room. They are more likely to be a devoted, shadow-like companion than an independent one, genuinely needing and appreciating the love and attention of their human family.

Rating: 7/10The West Highland Doxie, a hybrid of the Dachshund and West Highland White Terrier, generally possesses a moderate level of compatibility with other pets, earning it a 7. This rating reflects the influence of both parent breeds. Westies are typically known for being quite outgoing and can be friendly with other dogs, though they can also exhibit a bit of a "big dog in a small body" attitude. Dachshunds, on the other hand, were bred for hunting badgers and can retain a relatively high prey drive, which might extend to smaller animals like cats or rodents if not properly socialized.Their resource guarding tendencies are typically moderate, though individual personalities will vary; early training and consistent management are crucial to prevent any issues from developing. Both parent breeds benefit significantly from early and consistent socialization with other animals. When introduced thoughtfully as puppies and continuously supervised, West Highland Doxies can absolutely thrive in multi-pet households, often becoming quite playful companions. However, their inherent prey drive from the Dachshund side means that constant supervision, especially with very small, prey-like pets, might be necessary, and owners should be prepared for potential chasing behaviors. With proper training and proactive management, they can be quite adaptable, but they aren't always naturally sociable to the point of being universally accepting of all other animals without some effort from their human companions.

The West Highland Doxie rates a 7/10 for "Good with Children."This hybrid inherits a mix of traits from its parent breeds. The West Highland White Terrier generally brings a playful, confident, and affectionate nature, often being quite tolerant and robust. The Dachshund, while loyal and loving with its family, can sometimes exhibit a more independent and sensitive side, and may be less tolerant of rough handling or overly boisterous play.Therefore, the West Highland Doxie is typically a good family companion, particularly with proper socialization from a young age. They are often playful and enjoy being involved in family activities. However, their size and potential Dachshund influence mean they are better suited for families with slightly older, more considerate children who understand how to interact gently with a small dog. They may be less tolerant of the unpredictable grabs and loud noises common with very young toddlers. While generally gentle with their own family, they do require consistent training and supervision to ensure positive interactions with children, and to prevent any nipping that might arise from feeling overwhelmed or threatened. Early exposure to children of various ages will help them thrive in a family setting.

Rating the "Good with Strangers" trait of the West Highland Doxie on a scale of 1 to 10, I would give it a 6.The West Highland Doxie inherits a blend of traits from its parent breeds, which can make its behavior around strangers somewhat variable. The West Highland White Terrier parent is generally known for being friendly and confident, often quite social once they’ve assessed a new person. However, the Dachshund side can be more reserved and even wary of strangers, sometimes exhibiting a tendency to bark or guard their territory and family. This combination often results in a dog that is not inherently unfriendly but may initially be cautious or somewhat aloof with unfamiliar adults. They are unlikely to be immediately boisterous and welcoming, often needing a short period to observe and assess before they fully relax. While they can be adapted to public or guest-filled environments with proper socialization, they may still show some initial apprehension or emit a warning bark. Their comfort with strangers is more a result of good training and consistent positive exposure from a young age rather than an innate outgoing nature. They are generally not aggressive, but their caution means they aren't instinctively extremely sociable either.

I would rate the "West Highland Doxie" at a 4 for winter tolerance. While the West Highland White Terrier parent contributes a double coat that offers some insulation, the Dachshund parent's short legs and generally thinner single coat in the standard variety (though long-haired Dachshunds exist, a "Doxie" often implies the smoother-coated type) significantly reduce overall cold resilience. Their small size means a higher surface area to volume ratio, making them more susceptible to rapid heat loss and increasing the risk of hypothermia. They lack significant body fat for insulation, and their close-to-the-ground stature exposes their belly to cold surfaces and snow. There's no brachycephalic anatomy to consider in this cross. This breed definitely requires special care during winter months compared to many other companion dogs, such as sweaters or coats for outdoor excursions, shorter walks in very cold weather, and careful monitoring for signs of discomfort or shivering. They are not built for prolonged outdoor activity in truly cold climates and would be much more comfortable indoors.

Rating: 4The West Highland Doxie, inheriting traits from both the Dachshund and the West Highland White Terrier, would likely have a moderate to low tolerance for summer heat. Neither parent breed is particularly well-suited for extreme temperatures. Dachshunds, with their long bodies and short legs, are close to the ground, increasing heat absorption from hot surfaces. While not severely brachycephalic, their longer bodies can make efficient heat dissipation more challenging. Westies, with their dense double coat, are also prone to overheating, despite their generally active nature. The West Highland Doxie would likely retain a coat that provides some insulation but could also trap heat, and while not as extreme as some brachycephalic breeds, their facial structure might not offer superior cooling capabilities. They would be at a heightened risk of heatstroke, especially during vigorous activity, and would likely require significant modifications to their outdoor activity schedule during hot weather, limiting outings to cooler parts of the day. Climate control in the home would be essential to prevent overheating. Compared to many other companion dogs, the West Highland Doxie definitely requires special care in summer months, including strict supervision, access to shade and water, and avoidance of direct sunlight during peak heat.

I'd rate the "Healthiness" trait of the West Highland Doxie at a 6 out of 10.This rating reflects a middle-ground health profile. While not as prone to extreme issues as some highly specialized breeds, the West Highland Doxie inherits health predispositions from both parent breeds, meaning it isn't exceptionally robust. Dachshunds are particularly known for intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) due to their long backs, and this is a significant concern for any Doxie mix. They can also be prone to patellar luxation, epilepsy, and some eye conditions. West Highland White Terriers, on the other hand, are susceptible to certain skin allergies (atopy), Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and "Westie jaw" (Craniomandibular Osteopathy).Therefore, a West Highland Doxie has a higher likelihood of inheriting one or more of these conditions. Life expectancy is generally good for small to medium breeds, around 12-15 years, but the quality of life can be significantly impacted by conditions like IVDD if not managed. Responsible breeding can help mitigate some of these genetic predispositions by screening parent dogs, and preventive care, especially weight management to protect the spine, is crucial. Compared to other companion dogs, the West Highland Doxie is not considered high-maintenance in terms of temperament or grooming, but it does require attentive health monitoring and proactive management of potential musculoskeletal issues, making it somewhat less robust than a truly mixed-breed dog with a more diverse genetic pool.

I'd rate the "Protective" trait of the West Highland Doxie at a 7.This breed, inheriting traits from both the Dachshund and the West Highland White Terrier, tends to be quite alert and possesses a surprisingly strong territorial instinct for its size. Both parent breeds are known for their watchdog capabilities, readily barking at perceived threats or strangers approaching their home. The West Highland Doxie will likely exhibit significant loyalty to its owners, often forming a strong bond and being wary of unknown individuals until properly introduced. While they are certainly more of a companion dog due to their size, their persistent barking and assertive demeanor can serve as an excellent deterrent and an effective "alarm system" for a household. They are excellent watchdogs, reliably alerting owners to unusual activity, but their small stature means they are not capable of offering meaningful physical protection as a guard dog. Their protective instinct manifests primarily through vocalization and an unwavering dedication to their family.

I'd rate the "Life Span" trait of the West Highland Doxie at a 7. This hybrid breed generally enjoys an average to above-average lifespan compared to many other companion dogs. Dachshunds typically live 12-16 years, and West Highland White Terriers live 12-16 years, so a West Highland Doxie often falls within this healthy range, usually around 12-15 years. While both parent breeds can be prone to specific health issues – Dachshunds to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and Westies to certain skin conditions and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease – a well-bred West Highland Doxie from responsible breeders can often mitigate some of these risks through genetic screening. Good care, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and preventative veterinary check-ups, significantly contributes to their potential for a long and healthy life. However, they aren't quite in the "exceptional longevity" category of some smaller, less health-issue-prone breeds, hence the 7 rather than an 8 or 9.