Why I Dream of Dogs Living to 20 Again

Why I Dream of Dogs Living to 20 Again

When my grandpa talked about his German Shepherds, his face softened in a way I rarely saw. He was a stoic man, but those dogs brought out a tenderness in him that I’ll never forget. They lived into their 20s—a fact he was incredibly proud of. Back then, it wasn’t unusual for dogs to live long, healthy lives. But today, we seem to think a dog living to 12 or 14 is an accomplishment. What’s changed?

The more I’ve learned about the pet industry, the more I’ve realized the answer lies in a combination of factors: nutrition, environment, and a lack of accountability. Over the years, convenience and cost-cutting have taken precedence over health. Synthetic ingredients, harmful preservatives, and low-quality meat have replaced the wholesome, simple diets dogs used to eat. And while we’ve made strides in veterinary medicine, our pets are often battling chronic illnesses that could have been prevented.

But here’s the thing: I believe we can change this. I believe we can dream of a world where dogs live to 20 again, and we can make it a reality. It starts with education—understanding what our dogs truly need and learning to question the marketing tactics of big pet food companies. It requires accountability, both from the industry and from ourselves as pet owners. And most importantly, it demands a commitment to doing better, even when it’s not the easiest or cheapest option.

This blog is my way of starting that journey. It’s a love letter to the dogs who’ve shaped my life and a call to action for anyone who believes our pets deserve better. Together, we can create a world where dogs don’t just survive—they thrive. Let’s honor the dogs who came before and make sure the ones who come next get the long, healthy lives they deserve.