Quick Links: Table of Contents
- How Long Fox Terriers Live. Fox Terrier Life Expectancy
- Lifespan of the Fox Terrier Compared to Other Dog Breeds
- Common Causes of Death in Fox Terrier, and how to Prevent Them.
- How Old is Your Fox Terrier in Human Years
- How Long Do Fox Terriers Live in Human Years?
- More Ways to Make Your Fox Terrier Live Long
- Conclusion on Fox Terrier Life Expectancy
How Long Fox Terriers Live. Fox Terrier Life Expectancy
Generally, the lifespan of the Fox Terrier is from 10 to 15 years.
Moreover, a few years back, British Veterinarinan researchers performed a scientific study to determine the lifespan of the Fox Terrier. In this study, the scientists collected data on how long 44 pet Fox Terriers lived.
From the study, it was found that Fox Terriers have a average lifespan of 13.1 years. Furthermore, the study found that Fox Terriers can live for as long as 17.2 years.
Furthermore, researchers from the University of Georgia conducted a study to find out what are the top causes of death in Fox Terriers.
According to the study, the top 5 causes of death in Fox Terriers are:
- Neoplastic Disease: Issues involving tumors
- Cardiovascular Disease: Encompasses heart problems, blood pressure issues, and bleeding/clotting problems. CV issues may also be related to lung and/or breathing problems.
- Gastrointestinal Disease: Any problems that affect the mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, or rectum.
- Neurologic Disease: Refers to problems with the brain, nerves, and spinal cord.
- Trauma: Issues involving injury
In this article, we will explain each of these diseases and discuss how to prevent the early occurence of each in your Fox Terrier to make your Fox Terrier live a longer.
Also, in this article, we will discuss other things you can do to ensure that your Fox Terrier have a longer than average lifespan.
Do you want to know how old your Fox Terrier is in human years? Then, check out our Fox Terrier age to human years calculator
Lifespan of the Fox Terrier Compared to Other Dog Breeds
See in the table below how the lifespan of the Fox Terrier compares to the lifespan of other dog breeds.
| Dog Breed | Average Lifespan (Years) |
|---|---|
| Bedlington Terrier Lifespan | 13.30 |
| Norwich Terrier Lifespan | 13.30 |
| Fox Terrier Lifespan | 13.10 |
| Parson Russell Terrier Lifespan | 13.00 |
| Brittany Lifespan | 12.80 |
| Labrador Retriever Lifespan | 12.20 |
| Border Collie Lifespan | 12.20 |
| Pharaoh Hound Lifespan | 11.80 |
| German Spitz Lifespan | 11.30 |
| Large Munsterlander Lifespan | 11.30 |
| Bouvier des Flandres Lifespan | 11.30 |
| Pug Lifespan | 11.00 |
| Boxer Lifespan | 10.20 |
| Hamiltonstovare Lifespan | 10.10 |
| Bull Terrier Lifespan | 10.00 |
| Pomeranian Lifespan | 9.67 |
| French Bulldog Lifespan | 9.00 |
| Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Lifespan | 8.00 |
| Leonberger Lifespan | 7.08 |
| Dogue de Bordeaux Lifespan | 3.83 |
Common Causes of Death in Fox Terrier, and how to Prevent Them.
We will now discuss the common causes of death in Fox Terrier, according to scientific research. Also we will provide you advice on how to prevent these problems in your Fox Terrier.
Here are the causes of death, starting from the most common cause
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Neoplastic Disease in Fox Terriers
Neoplasms, or tumors, can be benign (like a lipoma), or malignant (cancer).
Neoplastic Disease is responsible for 24.4 percent of all deaths in Fox Terriers.
Causes of Neoplastic Disease in Fox Terrier
Neoplasms in dogs, just like in people, are caused by either a genetic predisposition (like some breast cancers), an environmental factor (like smoking in humans), or a combination of both.
How to Prevent Neoplastic Disease in Fox Terriers
Just like in humans, there is little you can do to prevent cancers that are caused by genetic factors. You can, however, reduce the environmental risks that are associated with cancer. The `environmental` causes of neoplasia are chemical agents, infectious agents, and physical agents. An example of a chemical agent that could cause cancer in Fox Terriers (and humans) is asbestos. An example of an infectious agent that could cause cancer in Fox Terriers is the virus called canine adenovirus. An example of a physical agent that can cause cancer in Fox Terriers is UV radiation from the sun, just like in humans.
Another way to prevent neoplasms in Fox Terriers is to vaccinate them against harmful viruses, such as canine adenovirus (DHPP vaccine at 8 and 12 weeks and then once a year, every year). As in humans, early diagnosis is the key to supporting Fox Terriers with neoplasms, so talk to your veterinarian if you find any new lumps, bumps, or discoloration on your Fox Terrier. You should also talk to your veterinarian if your Fox Terrier`s gums look pale.
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Cardiovascular Disease in Fox Terriers
Cardiac problems may include valvular and vascular disorders, which ultimately lead to the heart`s inability to pump oxygen-rich blood to tissues. Cardiac issues can be acute or chronic, and can lead to progressive heart failure or sudden death.
Cardiovascular Disease is responsible for 16.3 percent of all deaths in Fox Terriers.
Causes of Cardiovascular Disease in Fox Terrier
Heart disease in Fox Terriers may be caused by genetic (inherited) factors, lack of exercise, and poor diet. Heart disease can also be caused by infections such as bacteria (endocarditis, myocarditis, and more) as well as viruses, fungi, and parasites (heartworm).
How to Prevent Cardiovascular Disease in Fox Terriers
You can prevent heart problems in your Fox Terrier by exercising your Fox Terrier regularly and feeding your Fox Terrier a good diet. Heartworm, which causes heart problems, is also very easily avoided by using preventatives. Giving your dog the following supplements can help prevent heart diseases. Here is a good supplement that can prevent heart problems in your Fox Terrier. The supplement is not only good for your Fox Terrier`s heart, but it is also good for your Fox Terrier`s overall health.
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Gastrointestinal Disease in Fox Terriers
Gastrointestinal diseases includes vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, stomach upset, blockages, toothache, constipation, and more.
Gastrointestinal Disease is responsible for 11.8 percent of all deaths in Fox Terriers.
Causes of Gastrointestinal Disease in Fox Terrier
GI problems can be caused by a lot of different things. Often, GI problems like vomiting and diarrhea are caused by things that were eaten. It is best not to let your Fox Terrier eat human food or anything it finds outside, including garbage, plants and berries, fecal matter from other animals, and more. Vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach upset can also be caused by bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections. Another important sign of GI problems is when your Fox Terrier stops eating or eats less than usual. This can be caused by many things; sometimes it could be that your Fox Terrier is feeling nauseous, sometimes it could be that your Fox Terrier has mouth pain, and more. In these cases, it is best to see a veterinarian to get to the root of the problem.
How to Prevent Gastrointestinal Disease in Fox Terriers
An easy way to protect your dog from gastrointestinal problems is to make sure they are on heartworm, flea, and tick medicine all year long (no matter where you live). Many heartworm medications can also de-worm your dog every time you give a dose. This can prevent nasty parasites from settling into your dog`s intestines and causing pain, anemia, and other serious issues. Another way you can keep your dog feeling good is by taking good care of their teeth! This is especially an issue in small dogs. The best way to care for dog teeth is by cleaning them a few times a week. Here is a great brush for cleaning your Fox Terrier`s teeth. However, if your dog will not allow you to do that, dental treats like these are a good second option.
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Neurologic Disease in Fox Terriers
These problems include canine cognitive disfunction, dementia, stroke, Lyme disease, and more.
Neurologic Disease is responsible for 11.3 percent of all deaths in Fox Terriers.
Causes of Neurologic Disease in Fox Terrier
Neurological issues can be caused by vascular disease, inflammatory disease, infectious disease, metabolic disease, cancer, and developmental disorders.
How to Prevent Neurologic Disease in Fox Terriers
Some neurological problems can be caused by infectious agents, like Lyme disease. You should always get your dog vaccinated with the course recommended by your veterinarian.
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Trauma in Fox Terriers
These includes cuts, bites, bruises, broken bones, wounds, scratches, and more.
Trauma is responsible for 10.4 percent of all deaths in Fox Terriers.
Causes of Trauma in Fox Terrier
One of the most common causes of trauma in Fox Terriers is getting hit by cats. Another common cause is bites and scratches from fighting or play with other dogs.
How to Prevent Trauma in Fox Terriers
The best way to keep your Fox Terrier from getting hit by a car is by having them on a fixed leash. Veterinarians do not recommend retractable leashes for dogs. This is because, oftentimes, dogs on retractable leashes will bolt into the road before their owners can lock the leash and get hit by cars, even though they were technically on a leash. Having a normal, fixed leash is also a good way to prevent your Fox Terrier from bolting on walks and getting into fights with other dogs before you can lock the leash.
Here is a good fixed leash that can save your Fox Terrier from traumatic accidents.
How Old is Your Fox Terrier in Human Years
The table below shows your human years equivalent age of your Fox Terrier. This table is based on a dog-to-human age study conducted by researchers from Purdue University.
Learn more about how old your Fox Terrier is in human years here.
In 1997, researchers from Purdue University developed a method for converting a dog`s age to its human age. Their method was based on the 1953 work of the French Veterinarian, A. Lebeau that we discussed above.
Researchers from Purdue University took Lebeau`s work further by taking into account two important factors to develop a more accurate method for converting a dog`s age into its human equivalent age:
- The size of the dog: Smaller dog breeds live longer than larger breed dogs
- The lifespan of the dog: Dog breeds that live longer lives will age slower than dog breeds that live shorter lives
The average lifespan of the Fox Terrier is 13.1 years.
Fox Terriers are small-sized dogs. Fox Terriers weigh 15 pounds to 19 pounds.
The method developed by the Purdue University veterinarian researchers took into account the lifespan and size of Fox Terrier in converting Fox Terrier age to human age.
The researchers used data on the lifespan and weight of 5,608 mixed breed dogs and 17,927 purebred dogs to develop their method for converting the ages of dogs (of different breed sizes and lifespans ) to their equivalent human ages.
The calculator below lets you convert your Fox Terrier`s age to its human age based on the Purdue University method. Just enter your Fox Terrier`s age in the calculator and it will compute your Fox Terrier`s human age. If you do not know your Fox Terrier`s exact age, enter an approximate age in the calculator.
Also, the table below shows how old your Fox Terrier is in human years based on the method developed by the researchers.
Note that your Fox Terrier`s human age changes day by day. Therefore, always check back to use the calculator to find your Fox Terrier`s up-to-date human age.
Fox Terrier Age to Human Age Calculator (Purdue Uni. Method)
Below is a Fox Terrier age to human age calculator that is based on the methods developed by researchers from Purdue University.
The calculator will tell your Fox Terrier`s human age based on your Fox Terrier`s dog birthday. Also, the calculator will tell you which day is your Fox Terrier`s human birthday! Try it out!
| Fox Terrier Age (Years) | Human Age (Years) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 12 |
| 2 | 19 |
| 3 | 25 |
| 4 | 30 |
| 5 | 35 |
| 6 | 40 |
| 7 | 44 |
| 8 | 48 |
| 9 | 52 |
| 10 | 56 |
| 11 | 59 |
| 12 | 63 |
| 13 | 67 |
| 14 | 71 |
| 15 | 75 |
| 16 | 79 |
How Long Do Fox Terriers Live in Human Years?
The average lifespan of the Fox Terrier is 13.1 years. In human years, the Fox Terrier lives for 67 years.
How Old is 2-year-old Fox Terrier in Human Years?
A 2-year old Fox Terrier is 19 years old in human years.
How Old is 4-year-old Fox Terrier in Human Years?
A 4-year old Fox Terrier is 30 years old in human years.
How Old is 10-year-old Fox Terrier in Human Years?
A 10-year old Fox Terrier is 56 years old in human years.
How Old is 12-year-old Fox Terrier in Human Years?
A 12-year old Fox Terrier is 63 years old in human years.
More Ways to Make Your Fox Terrier Live Long
Here are more things your can do to make sure your Fox Terrier live a long life:
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Regular Exercise: Research studies have shown that one of the very effective ways to make a dog live long is to ensure that a dog is in good shape. Adequate exercise will make your Fox Terrier fit and make it live longer.
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Good Diet: A poorly-fed, underweight Fox Terrier does not have a good chance of living a long life. Similarly, an overweight Fox Terrier will have a shorter lifespan than a Fox Terrier that is of normal weight. Therefore, it is important that your feed your Fox Terrier high-quality dog food without overfeeding your Fox Terrier. Check out our Fox Terrier feeding guide here. Learn how you can prevent your Fox Terrier from being overweight here.
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Proper Hydration: Water is essential for your Fox Terrier existence. Therefore, you should make sure your Fox Terrier has access to clean water whenever your Fox Terrier needs water. However, too much water is bad for your Fox Terrier. See our Fox Terrier water drinking guide to learn more on how to properly hydrate your Fox Terrier.
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Spaying/Neutering: Sterilizing your Fox Terrier might prolong its life. Check out this guideline to know when it is the best time to spay/neuter your Fox Terrier.
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Routine Vet Care: Regular preventative visits to the vet can help catch diseases early.
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Vaccinations: Always make sure your Fox Terrier is up to date on its vaccination.
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Dental Hygiene: Your Fox Terrier’s teeth can get infected, and if the infection goes unnoticed, that infection can spread to other parts of the body and become systemic. This could lead to a shortened lifespan. You must have your Fox Terrier teeth cleaned professionally at your vet’s office a couple of times in its lifetime. Talk with your vet about the best ages to have these cleanings done.
Conclusion on Fox Terrier Life Expectancy
We hope the information we have provided will help your in increasing your Fox Terrier`s life expectancy.
Tate Ackerman contributed to this article. Tate is a second-year veterinary student at Kansas State University. Tate is also a concurrent Ph.D. student. She has a lot of experience reading scientific literature and communicating that information to a non-veterinary audience. Tate was a veterinary technician for a companion animal practice before she applied to veterinary school.