Looking for a healthy dog? We’ve compiled a list of some of the healthiest dogs in order to assist you in your search. Some of the breeds on this list have a long lifespan, while others are listed because they have few medical issues over the course of their life. So whether you are looking for a companion to keep for a very long time, or you are looking for a dog that will save you from outrageous vet bills and trips, we’ve got you covered.
It’s important to remember that it’s always up to the owner to feed their dogs the right food and to help their dog live an active healthy lifestyle if they want to extend the lives of their dogs and keep them out of the vet office. Improper diet and lack of exercise can be detrimental to any dog no matter the breed.
Another factor to consider when it comes to health is the purity of the breed. The more pure the bloodline, the fewer imperfections there are that can lead to health issues. Many breeders are intent on keeping their breeds bloodline pure for this reason. So if you are looking to get a mixed breed, be aware of the possible health issues that can come along with one. With that being said, what are the healthiest dog breeds?
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Shiba Inu
We couldn’t resist putting the Shiba Inu first on this list. Not only do they have a long lifespan of 13-15 years AND have very few common medical issues, but we have the personal honor of owning one ourselves.
There’s much stubbornness and fiery willpower packed into its small frame, but since they have been bossing people around since ancient times, we’d say it’s served them well. On a personal note, our Foster is 9 years old and has never had any health issues! Years back he even got hit head on by a car and was perfectly fine!
Australian Cattle Dog
Look up any list of the healthiest dog breeds and you are likely to find the Australian Cattle Dog there. Like the Shiba, they boast a lifespan of 13-15 years. This might even be more impressive considering the size of these dogs. They are also always listed as healthy and hardy, meaning they generally have no major health issues and are resistant to illnesses. As they get older, some have issues such as sight, but there’s a reason they always seem to be at the top of everyone’s list.
Chihuahua
Though these feisty pups are small, they are actually quite hardy and resilient. Chihuahuas are healthy dogs without too many of the issues that plague other small dogs. They are also very prone to dental diseases and are good at keeping fat off! Like some other small breeds, they have a nice long lifespan of 12-15 years. But plenty of people would tell you it’s longer than that, with owners having stories about their pet Chihuahuas living up to a whopping 19 years old!
Greyhound
Greyhounds are overall healthy dogs. They don’t have much fat on their body and are extremely athletic dogs. Lifespan ranges from 10-13 years old, which is decent for a dog of its size. The biggest health concerns with this breed seem to be infections and cancer. But most greyhounds keep in great shape!
Beagle
The beagle is another smaller breed that is a champion of longevity. These dogs have a lifespan range of an impressive 12-15 years. Though they can be rambunctious and stubborn puppies, they make great family pets and lovable companions. One major issue with this breed is obesity, which can be the result of this breeds major love of food, but also with owners not putting their dogs on a proper diet. It is best not to leave big bowls of food out for these pups, since they have a hard time controlling themselves!
Australian Shepherd
Not only are Aussies full of energy and life, they are generally very healthy dogs. Good thing too, because they will need to be healthy in order to be active enough to burn off all of their energy! With a lifespan a 12-15 years, Australian Shepherds are also one of the oldest living breeds.
Border Collie
Border Collie’s are a marvel for their size, and their life expectancy is listed at a solid 12-15 years. But border Collie owners will tell you that they can live up to an unbelievable 19 years with little to no medical issues! This kind of durability basically forced us to include these dogs on our list. Not only is the longevity massively impressive, perhaps just as much so is the fact that they really don’t have many common medical issues. Like many other breeds there have been cases of cancer or hip dysplasia, these dogs were made to last.
Siberian Husky
Compared to other breeds their size, huskies are good at managing a good weight and living off of small portions. With a lifespan of 12-15 years, you can count on this breed to keep you on your toes for a long time. Like many other breeds their size, they do run into common issues such as hip dysplasia and eye disease. One thing to especially watch out for with this breed is their skin. Huskies are known to get irritated skin and can become a problem if not treated with properly.
American Foxhound
American Foxhounds are another great example of a hardy breed, with very few common medical concerns. With this particular breed there have been some cases of a blood platelet disorder. Another issue with foxhounds are ear infections, but as long as they are well taken care of and eating a healthy diet, these are sustainable pups.
Poodle
No matter what size, Poodles have impressive health and longevity stats. With a 12-15 year lifespan and few health issues make these loving dogs part of this list. The most common health issues with this breed is cancer and heart disease, but there have been many cases of these dogs living well into their teens and even 20’s!
We hope this list has helped you get an idea of some of the healthy dogs that are out there. No matter what breed on this list you decide to go with, as long as you give your pup proper diet and exercise, you will have a new loving and playful member of the family for a long time to come!
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