Dog Breeds With the Least Health Issues

Owning a dog is an amazing journey filled with love, loyalty, and companionship. But like people, our canine companions will age and potentially face some health challenges. While some health concerns are inevitable, certain breeds are known for their overall resilience. Intrigued by the idea of a healthier canine companion? Dive in to discover dog breeds with the least health issues!

Healthiest Dog Breeds

Why are some dog breeds healthier than others? Some simply have a longer lifespan and are less prone to developing disease. These are the dogs that, when you ensure you feed them the right balanced diet and give them plenty of exercise, have the best chance at living a very long and happy life. 

And now let’s take a look at some of those dog breeds with the least health issues:

1. Australian Cattle Dog

Known for their stamina and intelligence, the Australian Cattle Dog is one of the healthiest dog breeds around because it doesn’t seem to face many health issues! As their name implies, the breed was bred to herd animals, and so it does require daily exercise to keep them happy and in great shape. 

2. Chihuahua

If you like your dogs small and adorable, consider the Chihuahua. This breed has one of the longest lifespans out there, with the average age being 16 years, though many can live to 20 and beyond! Loyal, intelligent and energetic, Chihuahuas are short in stature but huge in personality. This breed can be prone to obesity, so be sure to exercise yours daily!

3. Beagle

Beagles are loving and affectionate companions, and oh, those eyes! Beagles often live well into their teen years with proper nutrition and exercise. And speaking of, this breed is very much motivated and obesity is common if not exercised daily. 

4. Greyhound

Known for their slender bodies and fast running, Greyhounds can live well into their teens, which is impressive for a large breed! Be warned, however this breed is a sight hunter, meaning they don’t usually make good pets in a house with smaller animals like cats and rabbits. And, with their high energy, they absolutely require regular exercise!

5. Border Collie

Border Collies are one of the hardiest dogs around. They are also incredibly smart. Bred for herding, Collies require physical and mental stimulation each day to be happy and healthy. 

6. Whippet

Whippets are known for their sleek beauty and speed. Did you know they can reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour? THis easy going dog can live well into teen years with proper care. BEcause of their thin coats, they can be chilled in cooler months and may need a coat/sweater inside and out. 

7. Old English Sheepdog

Known as a gentle giant, the Old English Sheepdog is an incredibly affectionate dog that loves being with their family. Well-behaved, this breed does well around children and is not prone to many ailments. Though large, Sheepdogs can live 10 – 12 years with the right nutrition and lifestyle.

How to Keep Your Dog Healthy

While there are those dog breeds with long lifespans and far less genetic health risks, the truth is, most dog breeds can live long and happy lives with a little help from their pup parents. 

Here are some things you can do to help your dog live a long life:

Daily Exercise

Just like people need daily exercise to to truly be healthy, so do our pups. Yes, even tiny breeds like the Chihuahua require some daily exercise to keep their heart, joints and muscles in tip top shape. Plus, exercise is one of the best ways to combat obesity, which can be a problem for most breeds.

Diet

It’s equally important to ensure you are feeding your pup the proper diet. According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), a balanced diet must have six nutrients: water, carbohydrates (including fiber), vitamins, minerals, fat, and protein. And be sure to read the back panel to know exactly how much to feed your dog.

We always recommend you speak with your vet to see which brands of food and how much they personally recommend for your fur baby.

Vet Care

And speaking of the vet, it’s important to bring your pup in for yearly checkups. This ensures your vet can catch any potential health issue BEFORE it takes hold. And yes, even those breeds that are known to be healthy can still develop some issues as they age. 

Pet Health Insurance

And finally, taking the very best care of your fur baby means ensuring you have the finances to get them the care they need should an accident or illness occur. A pet health insurance plan gives pet parents peace of mind, allowing them to focus on getting their pup healthy again.

References:

1. https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/healthiest-dog-breeds
2. https://www.dailypaws.com/living-with-pets/pet-compatibility/healthiest-dog-breeds
3. https://www.thesprucepets.com/healthiest-dog-breeds-4797081

 

Disclaimer

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.