World's tallest dog dies, ages five

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/12/kalamazoo-michigan-worlds-tallest-dog-dies-aged-five

This is why I could never get a dog of that size. Their lifespan is so short. Don't get me wrong; he was a magnificent dog. But it would break my heart.

He was pretty freakish, wasn't he?

It just isn't right, far too big; their bodies just can't take it.

RIP Zeus, run free.

I hope the family is okay. I'd be devastated in their position.

Five years old is nothing. So, so sad.

It is

This is the sad thing about all the giant breeds.

Yes, the wolfhound only has an average life expectancy of around 6 or 7.

Very sad indeed. It true, the larger the breed, the shorter their lifespan. Though it seems he did go earlier than most of his breed would, but one ladies comment about his young death being a direct result of neutrering at a young age in my opinion is just not factually correct.

I agree, Tracy - I doubt early neutering played a part in his death. It can be linked to a lot of problems, but not directly to lifespan. I wish people would check their facts before they go off on one!

That dog did look freakishly huge.

As you all say, the biggest dogs have the shortest life spans which is very sad but anyone who gets a big dog breed should be aware that they are letting themselves in for early heartbreak.

Just so long as no-one tries to breed the biggest/tallest ....