What breed of dog has the least health problems
22 Healthiest Dog Breeds With the Least Health Problems
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Australian Cattle Dog
Known to help ranchers keep herds in check, Australian Cattle Dogs love being outdoors. There's no doubt that their athleticism contributes to their health. An ACD named Bluey holds the Guinness World Record for being the oldest dog; he passed away at 29 years old.
RELATED: 40 Top Medium-Sized Dogs
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Australian Shepherd
With historical ties to the Wild West, Australian Shepherds thrive on being put to work alongside farmers. Their active lifestyle ensures a long, happy life living anywhere from 12 to 15 years.
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Basenjis
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Beagle
Small but mighty best describes this breed well. Being part of a hunting pack comes naturally to them and they succeed, thanks to their excellent sense of smell. Living between 10-15 years, beagles make loyal companions.
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Belgian Malinois
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Bichon Frise
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Border Collie
The need to move keeps Border Collies young at heart, well into old age. With an average lifespan of 12 years, they stay busy herding livestock and winning first place at dog shows with their agility.
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Chihuahua
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Dachshund
Named an "icon" by the American Kennel Club, this dog's long body and short legs earned it the nickname "wiener." Daily exercise could help yours stay healthy for its 20th birthday.
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German Pinscher
Often described as elegant, the German Pinscher is always poised and ready for any adventure. This muscular breed has a lifespan of 12-15 years.
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German Shorthaired Pointer
Spot a German Shorthaired Pointer in a sea of dogs by their unique patterned fur. Leave one outdoors and it could run for days. Their drive keeps them young.
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Greyhound
Originally from Egypt, Greyhounds are admired for their perfect form and quickness during a chase. Hereditary health issues are rare in this breed.
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Havanese
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Miniature Schnauzer
Part of the terrier group, Miniature Schnauzers do well in a quiet family home or on a farm. Its muscular body and fearless attitude contributes to its 15-year lifespan.
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Pomeranian
Pomeranians don't let their small bodies keep them from being the life of the party. Their furry coats help them stay warm during short walks. If it's too cold, they can exercise indoors instead.
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Poodle
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Pug
Despite their wrinkly face, pugs are an energetic breed and can live up to 15 years with the right diet. They prefer places that aren't too hot or too cold, and don't mind having company.
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Shiba Inu
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Shih Tzu
Its long mane disguises 16 pounds of strength underneath it. Well known for its affection toward children, the Shih Tzu can live 18 happy years.
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Siberian Husky
Don't let a Siberian Husky's graceful walk fool you. This powerful dog is used to running in a pack and needs open space to release its energy. The average husky can live to be 14 years old.
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19 of the Healthiest Dog Breeds
Healthiest Dog Breeds
1. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is one of the healthiest dogs out there. Known for their intelligence, work ethic, and stamina, these dogs are a typically resilient breed that doesnt face many health issues. Just as their name implies, theyve been bred to herd animals and need plenty of exercise to stay in top shape.
2. Australian Shepherd
Smart, loyal, and energetic, Australian Shepherds enjoy keeping active, and need physical and mental stimulation throughout their lives. These dogs especially enjoy advanced obedience training and excel in herding jobs. As a breed, they can be prone to certain diseases such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and some eye diseases. Nevertheless, they are generally healthy dogs.
3. Chihuahua
Despite a tendency to forget how small they are, Chihuahuas are among the breeds with the longest lifespans. These loyal and energetic dogs pack a big personality and plenty of smarts. Since Chisas theyre sometimes calledare prone to obesity, pet parents should be careful to give them lots of exercise, even if its just playing fetch in the living room.
4. Beagle
Beagles are motivated by food and follow their noses everywhereeven into trouble. As pets, they are loving and affectionate. These dogs benefit from scent training and a controlled diet, since their insatiable appetites mean they will easily overeat given the chance.
5. Greyhound
The Greyhound is unique among hounds because its a sight hunter, meaning the breed relies on speed and agility to hunt prey. As sight hunters, they might not make good pets in homes with smaller pets, such as cats or rabbits, without proper training and introductions.
With their high energy levels and strong prey drive, Greyhounds need regular exercise. However, once they get their zoomies out, they can become cuddly couch potatoes.
6. Poodle
Poodleswhether the Standard Poodle, the Miniature Poodle, or the Toy Poodlemake wonderful pets. Smart, loyal, and easy to train, these dogs tend to get along with other animals and people alike. Poodles enjoy swimming and learning new tricks, and they tend to face only minor health issues as they age.
7. Havanese
The only dog breed native to Cuba, the Havanese has a long lifespan of 1416 years. This affectionate small breed loves his pet parents and is easy to train due to his exceptional smarts. However, the breed can face a few medical conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy and patellar luxation.
8. German Shorthaired Pointer
German Shorthaired Pointers are prized as hunting dogs because of their speed and stamina. GSPs boast high energy levels and need lots of exercise, as well as physical and mental stimulation, to stay healthy and out of trouble. These dogs can be predisposed to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and bloat.
9. Old English Sheepdog
Old English Sheepdogs love being around their pet parents. Generally, these gentle giants are well-behaved and affectionate, and they do especially well in households with kids. This healthy dog breed is not prone to many ailments and has an average lifespan of 1012 years.
10. Basenji
Typically an independent and energetic dog, Basenjis are sometimes described as catlike because of their aloof personalities and attentiveness to personal hygiene. Basenjis need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to satisfy their active minds and keep them out of trouble. This breed may be genetically predisposed to Fanconi syndrome, a kidney disease.
11. Shiba Inu
More than just a meme, Shiba Inus are small dogs with strong personalities. These dogs are known for being willful and for their classic Shiba scream. Their high intelligence makes them active and alert dogs that can become anxious if not given sufficient exercise. Though healthy, Shibas can develop arthritis in their old age.
12. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is an elegant dog that is deeply devoted to her pet parents. The breed has two varieties: hairless and powderpuff. Both kinds need special attention to keep their long fur (hairless Cresteds still have fine white fur on some parts of their body) well-groomed, but the hairless variety also needs sweaters to keep warm when out in the cold.
13. Border Collie
Bred as herding dogs, Border Collies are brimming with energy and need regular exercise. They enjoy having a job that provides both physical and mental stimulationafter all, they are one of the smartest dog breeds. Border Collies are hardy dogs but are also predisposed to some genetic diseases, such as Collie eye anomaly.
14. Whippet
Sleek and speedy, Whippets are capable of reaching speeds of 35 miles per hour. These easygoing dogs love chasing toys (and neighborhood squirrels), but their thin coats mean they can get cold easily. Whippets can be genetically predisposed to deafness, so pet parents should take them to their vet for regular checkups.
15. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are working dogs that arent afraid to use their voices and speak their minds. These dogs are usually friendly and intelligent, but they can also be very strong-willed. They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Huskies may be prone to cataracts, even as puppies.
16. Anatolian Shepherd
Bred as guardians, Anatolian Shepherds are giant-breed dogs that have calm demeanors. They are always on alert, however, because of their breeding history. Anatolian Shepherds tend to be independent and need outdoor exercise to release pent-up energy.
17. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise has lots of energy, but he doesnt need prolonged time exercising outdoors due to his small size. Playful and affectionate by nature, Bichons tend to have long lifespans averaging 1415 years. However, this breed is prone to developing diabetes mellitus, a condition that affects dogs abilities to regulate their blood sugar levels.
18. Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois are highly energetic dogs that serve as great companions for pet parents who enjoy outdoor activities, whether thats cycling or hiking. Their intelligence also makes them wonderful working dogs, and they have been trained for jobs including herding and drug detection. The breed is hardy and healthy, though predisposed to cataracts.
19. American Foxhound
As the name implies, the American Foxhound was bred to hunt foxes. These energetic dogs love being outdoors and are usually devoted to their pet parents. At the same time, they do well indoors and can get along well with other pets. With a lifespan of 1113 years, they are not genetically prone to many illnesses.
Featured Image: Adobe/melounix
7 Dogs with the Least Health Problems
When thinking about adding a new dog to your family, one of the things youve probably considered is the common health issues each dog breed has. Are Beagles susceptible to ear infections? Is an Australian Shepherd prone to hip issues? Which breeds experience poor eye health? These health problems should not be the ultimate determining factor in whether or not you move forward with adding a dog to your family but knowing these breed health concerns can help you plan for any challenges that may arise in the future.
While your dog is not guaranteed to experience a condition specific to its breed, its essential to know if youll be able to mentally and financially handle the treatments and care that comes with the health issue. Weve compiled a list of the dogs with the least health problems to help you determine the next breed that is right for you and your family.
Australian Cattle Dog
Known for cattle herding, the Australian Cattle Dog is energetic and able to work or exercise for long hours. This breed is perfect for families who enjoy hiking, camping, and outdoor activities. Australian Cattle Dogs are high achievers and independent, making them trustworthy enough to be left alone with a herd. They should be given plenty of mental and physical stimulation so that they dont become bored and cause mischief. Weighing an average of 35 to 50 pounds and standing at 17 to 20 inches at the shoulder, these dogs are a medium build. With two layers of either a red or blue coarse coat, this breed can survive a wide array of harsh conditions, including rain.
Australian Cattle Dogs are bred to live an average lifespan of 10 to 13 years. While they are generally one of the healthiest dog breeds, they have some major health concerns, including canine hip dysplasia (CHD), elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and deafness. They may also struggle with lens luxation and cataracts. Its important to discuss your Australian Cattle Dogs specific health needs with your vet to ensure they have a long, happy life.
Australian Shepherd
Bred in Europe and mistakenly assumed they originated from Australia, the Australian Shepherd is an intelligent, obedient, and athletic dog. Theyre commonly found working on farms, competing in competitions, or working as service dogs. Because of their high-energy and work mentality, they require regular and frequent exercise and activities that create mental stimulation. They have a strong impulse to herd and may not be suitable for pet owners who like to relax or have young kids. The Australian Shepherds average height is 18 to 23 inches, and it weighs about 40 to 65 pounds, making it a good-sized medium dog.
Australian Shepherds live an average of 12 to 15 years. They are prone to health conditions, including hip dysplasia, Collie Eye Anomaly, and hypothyroidism. The American Kennel Club recommends getting your Australian Shepherds hip, elbow, and ophthalmologist evaluations. Remember to watch your pups weight and regularly clean their teeth and ears.
Basenji
The barkless dog originated in Egypt and then in Africa as a hunting dog. Later, this breed became popular in the United States as a show dog. The Basenji has a sturdy build with a wrinkled forehead and curled tail. Because of its long legs, the Basenji runs fast. This breed of dog is brilliant, inquisitive, and stubborn. It gets along well with other dogs but does not interact with its own breed. If this dog does not receive enough physical and mental exercise, it could become aggressive or get into trouble from trying to seek this stimulation. The Basenji can be an indoor dog as long as it gets time to run outside freely or go for long walks. The Basenji is a relatively small dog at only 20 to 25 pounds and 16 to 17 inches in height.
With an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years, the Basenji often struggles with hip dysplasia, PRA, and Fanconi syndrome. This breed may also experience other minor health issues, including umbilical hernia, hypothyroidism, and persistent pupillary membranes (PPM). The Basenji is a sighthound, prone to chasing after prey they see. Because of this, they often experience injury and sometimes death. Be sure to keep your Basenji in an enclosed area or on a leash during exercise.
Beagle
With a calm temperament and a keen sense of smell, the Beagle is a top choice for many pet owners and hunters alike. At an average of 15 inches in height and 20 to 25 pounds, Beagles are relatively small. They are very pack-oriented, requiring the company of humans and other dogs. Theyre also adventurous and need regular exercise so that they remain healthy. Because of their tolerant behavior, they are good pets for families with kids.
As one of the healthiest dog breeds, the Beagle lives an average of 12 to 15 years. A Beagle pet owner should watch for these health issues later in the dogs life: glaucoma, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, patellar luxation, cherry eye, or deafness. The Beagle may also suffer from intervertebral disk disease. Regular hip, thyroid, and eye tests from your local vet will help detect these conditions early on.
Chihuahua
The smallest dog breed and one of the dogs with the least health problems, the Chihuahua is a loyal companion and highly devoted to its owner. This sassy dog is intelligent and protective of its family. Chihuahuas need minimal exercise (a little playtime around the house or a short walk a day is plenty for these little-legged friends), and their coat (which can vary from short to long) does not require much grooming. They weigh between 2 and 6 pounds and are 6 to 9 inches in height.
The Chihuahua has an average lifespan of 14 to 18 years. This breed may experience health conditions such as hypoglycemia, patellar luxation, or keratoconjunctivitis Wicca (KCS). If you decide to get a Chihuahua, keep your eye out for symptoms of these conditions and openly discuss treatment options with your vet if a symptom does present itself.
Havanese
A highly friendly and sociable dog, the Havanese makes for a great companion. Bred in Havana, the Havanese is the only dog originating from Cuba. This dog is known for its long, silky hair and pluming tail that curls over its back. It weighs an average of 7 to 13 pounds and is 8.5 to 11.5 inches in height. Extraordinarily bright and eager to please, the Havanese are easy to train. This breed enjoys spending time with people and does not do well left alone for long periods of time. This pup is also very sensitive and does not need to be scolded harshly.
As one of the dogs with the least health problems, the Havanese has an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years. While it is a healthy dog breed, pet owners should be aware of signs of deafness, elbow dysplasia, or patellar luxation in their Havanese. Regular visits to the vet and having their ears, eyes, and hips tested can help detect these conditions early enough to start treatment. Its also recommended to feed your Havanese high-quality food and treats.
Siberian Husky
Full of personality and known as a sled dog, the Siberian Husky is one of the dog breeds with the least amount of health problems. This breed of dog loves hiking, walking, and jogging with its owners. While a Husky is playful, energetic, adventurous, and eager to please, this pup also tends to wander and escape, loves to chew or carry things in its mouth, and may attack small animals. Siberian Huskies are very social, which makes them not the greatest watchdogs. They are also highly intelligent, meaning they need a job (something that stimulates their mind). As a larger breed, the Siberian Husky weighs between 35 and 60 pounds and is 20 to 23 inches in height.
The Siberian Husky can live an average of 12 to 16 years, which is considered long for dogs of large breeds. Its important to note that while your Husky could have a long life, he may also be susceptible to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, PRA, cataracts, or hypothyroidism. PetMD recommends finding a local vet and emergency hospital and getting pet insurance to prepare you for any health-related issues with your Siberian Husky.
Keeping Your Dog Healthy
No matter which dog breed you decide to add to your family, you should be aware that whether your dog is healthy or unhealthy isnt always determined immediately, especially if you get a puppy. The best way to care for your pup is by taking them to the vet for annual visits and any time they show symptoms of a health condition. While veterinary medical treatment can be expensive right out of your own pocket, pet insurance is available to help you cover any emergency vet bills or unexpected health issues. Protect your furry friends (and your budget!) with Odie Pet Insurance. Our affordable policies provide customized coverage so you can get exactly what your pup needs. Get started today by requesting a quote!
5 Dog Breeds That Vets Worry About Most
Now that weve shown you the dog breeds with the least health problems during ownership, here are five dog breeds that vets worry about most. If youre looking to bring a new pup into your home, you may want to avoid the breeds on this list unless youre prepared to shell out on health expenditures. Pet insurance can help mitigate much of the cost, but these unhealthiest dog breeds may be something to stay away from if youd rather not deal with possible health complications and issues.
Some people think that its as simple as not getting a mixed breed, but even purebreds are prone to health issues because of their genetics. That said, there are no guarantees, and just because you choose or dont choose a breed on this list, you could have no health problems or many it depends on a lot more than just the breed you pick.
Great Danes
This large breed is a beautiful and majestic example of a large dog breed, but theyre also commonly referred to as the heartbreak breed because of their short lifespans, which tend to average about eight years. Some of this is because of their large size, but its also due to their propensity to develop bloat, a life-threatening condition that can cut off the blood supply. Great Danes are also prone to dilated cardiomyopathy or a weakening of the heart.
French Bulldogs
Theyre certainly cute and trendy right now, but French Bulldogs tend to develop respiratory problems due to common breeding practices. Theyre also short-nosed, meaning theyre a brachycephalic breed, which can lead to congenital breathing problems that may need surgery to correct. Furthermore, because of their breathing challenges, they can get overheated and winded easily in hot weather, so theyre not recommended in hot climates unless you have climate control.
Rottweilers
Next up on our list of dog breeds with the most health problems is the Rottweiler. Like Great Danes, theyre a large breed, which can present health problems later in life, but unfortunately, theyre also prone to cancer. While cancer is possible with any dog breed, its very common in Rottweilers, particularly at a young age. Sometimes chemotherapy and other treatments can help keep cancer at bay, but it can be expensive, especially if you dont have the right coverage.
German Shepherds
Another much-beloved breed that you may want to avoid if youre concerned about health problems is the German Shepherd. Loyal, smart, and easy to train, German Shepherds are popular with police departments and for personal protection, but theyre also prone to health issues because of their breeding. From orthopedic problems that can make it difficult to walk to sensitive digestion issues that can make it hard to eat and keep food down, German Shepherds also suffer from epilepsy, eye issues, and degenerative myelopathy, a spinal cord issue that commonly affects older dogs.
Golden Retrievers
As one of the most popular breeds worldwide, a Golden Retriever is friendly, lovable and always wants to play, but theyre also prone to cancer more than other breeds. Some studies have shown that over 60 percent of Golden Retrievers pass away due to cancer, and thats something that is noticeable in the life expectancy of a Golden Retriever, which used to be in the high teens but that has come down to around 10 in the last half-century or so. Its unclear why Golden Retrievers are more susceptible to cancer than other breeds, but its important for owners to be aware of this change.
Planning to get insurance for your fur babies? This article provides a guide to understanding pet insurance.
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