That is how I see it-I’m hopefully investing 15+ years in my companion dog-I’m not going to be stingy with the money-I want the best of breed-I was also taught to look for the healthiest, best looking livestock-won’t do less for a companion animal.
After losing two dear German Shepherds at barely 13, and only liking large working/guarding breeds, I carefully chose a Chow, which has a longer lifespan in general. He died peacefully at 17. I didn’t want another Chow-he was one of a kind-so I chose a Siberian Husky-she was as fine a companion and protector as any of the other 3 dogs-quite possibly the best dog I’ve ever had. After slowing down a bit for several months, her heart just quit in her sleep -she was 17-that was nearly 2 years ago, and I still miss her so much I haven’t gotten another dog. Sometimes you really do get what you pay for...
Congratulations on the wonderful job you’ve done getting long life spans out of your dogs. Right now it’s so far, so good, with my two. The AST mix will turn 13 in March of next year and the Great Dane will make seven about the same time. Good health for both so far.