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Do frequent antibiotics harm my dog's lifespan or organs? What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 5 months old

Bruno is 1 yr 5 months almost around 515 days and in 515 days he had first when he was 40 days old stachbinfection then he grows he had urine infection he again after few months had yeastbinfection in leg and again after few months he had stomach infection and fever now he had infection from sniffing some grass or tree pollen so he has taken a lot of antibiotics in these 515 days so is it true taking antibiotics decrease life span by effecting organ or what should I do now ? I am worried a lot

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 21st, 2017

No, taking antibiotics, even a lot of them, does not decrease the life span of your dog. Unfortunately German Shepherds are a breed that has a lot of medical and congenital problems. The fact that he keeps having infections points to a problem with his immune system, ie , that it is not working very well. You may want to discuss with your vet whether Bruno's immune system could be boosted and how. This is different in every animal and depends on the individual condition, therefore it is best to discuss this with the veterinarian who knows him best.

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on January 1st, 2019

    No, taking these medications for short periods of time here and there will not have any effect on Bruno's lifespan at all. However, leaving infections and other illnesses untreated certainly CAN impact a dog's lifespan and overall quality of life, so I would not hesitate to use antibiotics or other mediation appropriately when prescribed by your veterinarian.

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