I have long hoped breeders would focus on breeding a dog with a long, healthy, lifespan.
Modern veterinary care has added 2-3 years to the canine lifespan, but many mid-sized breeds die at about age 10-12 (the lifespan of some giant dogs is criminally short).
How hard would it be to get to a 20 year dog? One could start with the australian cattle dog. At least one of these dogs is thought to have lived 29 years. True, they are not ideal family dogs, but that's what breeding is for. Mix in some European lab and some other sociable laid back breeds with relatively long lifespans and good health. In 30 years we could be well on our way ...
