10 Healthiest Dog Breeds

There are thousands of dog breeds from every region on the globe. Big, small, fuzzy or furless, dogs are just as diverse in appearance and personality as humans. And just like people, some breeds are more predisposed to certain ailments and issues than others are. Here is a list of the ten healthiest dog breeds.

1 Australian Cattle Dog

Compared to other breeds, the Australian Cattle Dog is resilient. Energetic and playful, these dogs will play with you well into their advanced years. With good training and preventative health care, an Australian Cattle Dog will live well beyond the average of 13 years. Around 5 to 8 years old, these dogs may develop progressive retinal atrophy and hip dysplasia.

2 Australian Shepherd

Yay for Aussies! These intelligent, obedient dogs require physical and mental challenges to remain happy. The average lifespan runs from 12 to 15 years, and throughout that time the Australian Shepherd might experience some skin and coat issues. Other issues that are common are hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism (if they don’t get enough exercise), and the inherited condition called Collie Eye Anomaly.

3 Border Collie

An extremely healthy breed, Border Collies are susceptible only to a few disorders. One is Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA). Usually, this condition is tested for around 12 weeks of age. Other diseases include hip dysplasia and epilepsy. However, all three of these issues can be tested for and warded off. The Border Collie is a mid-sized, fun-loving friend for the entire family. Border Collies can live up to 12 to 15 years.

4 English Springer Spaniel

Affectionate, eager to please and active, the English Springer Spaniel has long been a favorite of outdoorsy people. Because spaniels generally crave to socialize, these dogs may suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for long periods of time. Medically, this breed has few issues to be concerned about and will live 10 to 15 years in good health. Eye problems, ear infections, and joint dysplasia are the most common diseases that have been reported.

5 Siberian Husky

Huskies are amazing dogs that are known for their assistance in pulling sleds through arctic conditions. Active and intelligent, these dogs need constant stimulation. Huskies usually live around 12 years. However, with proper treatment and an adequate amount of exercise, these dogs will remain strong for many years. The only conditions they are prone to are cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and hypothyroidism.

Read also – 11 Family-Friendly Dog Breeds

6 Havanese

One of the healthiest dog breeds, these friendly balls of fluff are popular for two reasons: friendliness and a hypoallergenic coat. Although brushing is required to keep the fur from tangling, maintenance is fairly easy. Havanese only needs short walks to tucker them out, but they do love being active and will stay that way for their 12 to 14-year average lifespan. The usual issues Havanese face are patellar luxation, deafness and elbow dysplasia.

7 Chihuahua

Though Chihuahua is known for their loyalty and spunk, they are also known for their longevity. The usual lifespan of a healthy Chihuahua is 14 to 18 years, but some have lived into their 20s! Should these dogs have an inactive lifestyle that leads to weight issues, they can suffer from hypoglycemia and patellar luxation. Other common conditions are pulmonic stenosis (obstructed heart valve) and varying heart disorders.

8 German Pinscher

The courageous and curious German Pinscher is one of the healthiest dog breeds and the perfect dog for those seeking an alert companion that requires minimal coat maintenance and a decent amount of exercise. This breed has a lifespan of 12 to 14 years that may be longer when in excellent health. German Pinschers generally become afflicted with cataracts. Hip dysplasia occurs at an extremely low rate.

9 Shiba Inu

This native breed from Japan is one hearty dog. The fox-like appearance, hardiness, and cat-like attitude make Shiba Inu a great companion. With good care, this breed can live beyond the usual 12 to 16 years. Owners need to be aware that Shiba Inu has a tendency to develop allergies, eye problems, patellar luxation and hip dysplasia; but with routine check-ups, these can all be avoided.

10 Schnauzer

Mid-sized with a fearlessness that this breed is known for, alongside their expressive faces, Standard Schnauzers are wonderful dogs. Sturdily built from the inside out, the Schnauzer may get the usual issues dogs seem to get – hip dysplasia and eye disease. With care, these problems will never show up, and so this breed can live an active life of 12 to 15 years or longer.

Read also – 10 Smartest Dog Breeds

Taking a look at the healthiest dog breeds out there means getting clues on how to keep Fido fit and feisty. See how the dogs with loads of energy and a need for exercise stay healthier longer?

Routine brushing, staying on top of fleas and ticks, and offering some stimulating play will not only make your dog happier but increase his longevity! Whether or not your dog is one of the healthiest dog breeds listed here, knowing the potential problems that can pop up throughout your pup’s life can help ward off those issues.