A dog is your loyal companion and best furry friend, so you’ll want to do your best to keep them as healthy as possible. This includes doing things like giving your pet high-quality food every day, helping them get plenty of exercise, and making sure they’re properly vaccinated and protected against parasites like fleas and ticks.
But did you know that a dog’s breed might make them more prone to certain diseases?
Whether you plan on adopting from a shelter or breed-specific rescue, or purchasing from a responsible and caring breeder, it might be helpful to be aware of which breeds are less susceptible to various ailments.
What breed of dog has the least amount of health problems? Continue reading to learn about some of the healthiest dog breeds, but keep in mind that other factors, such as exercise needs, should also be taken into consideration when bringing a pet into your family.
What Is the Healthiest Dog Breed?
Even purebred dogs can be at risk of developing certain conditions, but some are prone to developing fewer ailments overall. Here’s a list of seven of the many dog breeds that are considered generally healthy, listed in no particular order:
1. Australian Cattle Dog
The cute Australian Cattle Dog is an example of a working canine that is considered one of the healthiest dog breeds. These smart, strong, playful, and energetic dogs might live up to 16 years, on average. However, they might develop problems like elbow dysplasia, osteochondritis dissecans, hip dysplasia, deafness, or progressive retinal atrophy.
2. Chihuahua
The adorable Chihuahua is considered another one of the healthiest breeds. And the Teacup Chihuahua is one of the healthiest teacup breeds. Although these tiny, smart, and feisty pooches might be prone to a few ailments, such as patellar luxation, pulmonic stenosis, hypoglycemia, and hydrocephalus, they might live as long as 18 years, on average. These dogs are also a good choice for those who would prefer a pooch that doesn’t need a lot of exercise.
3. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is stunning in appearance and full of energy and love. Yet another one of the healthiest breeds, these active, athletic dogs can live up to 16 years, on average. But, as is the case with any breed, some genetic problems might develop, such as eye conditions, hip dysplasia, and hypothyroidism.
4. Havanese
One of the healthiest small dog breeds is the friendly Havenese, which can live up to 14 years, on average. These pooches are energetic, affectionate, and playful, and the breed isn’t associated with any major health concerns. However, these canines might develop patellar luxation or deafness.
5. Greyhound
One of the healthiest large dog breeds, the athletic greyhound might live up to 13 years, on average. These pooches love to run and need to be able to let out their energy in a positive way through exercise. Just be aware that this breed might be prone to some ailments, such as eye problems, heart murmur, high blood pressure, and bloat.
6. Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd can live up to 15 years, on average, and it is a breed that is affectionate, active, and smart. If you are in search of a medium sized pooch that is considered healthy, this is one that’s worth looking into. However, like other breeds on this list, this one might be susceptible to certain conditions, such as Collie Eye Anomaly, hypothyroidism, and hip dysplasia.
7. Mixed Breed
Purebred dogs might be prone to health conditions simply because of their genetics. For example, these pooches might be at a greater risk of skin problems, muscular ailments, or organ diseases. And if inbreeding occurs, it might also increase the odds of problems developing. Therefore, mixed breed canines, whose genetic makeup is more varied, are also considered some of the healthiest dogs.
Pet Insurance Can Help You Care for Your Dog!
No matter what dog breed you choose for your family, it’s wise to work closely with a veterinarian to ensure your pet can remain as healthy as possible for as long as possible. There are many steps you can take, such as having your companion examined regularly and asking your vet for advice on how to care for your unique furry friend.
Unfortunately, you can’t always avoid illness or injury. But, if you are worried about affording vet bills, pet insurance can be there to help. And the great news is this insurance is surprisingly affordable! It will be there to help cover the cost of various treatments and procedures, and the right plan can also include coverage for things like wellness checks throughout your pet’s life.
Even the healthiest breeds can benefit from high-quality veterinary care! When you’re ready to shop for the plan that’s right for you, check out the Direct Benefits Marketplace to see what’s available in your area.