We all want to make sure that our pooches are thriving and living their best lives. And while nobody can guarantee a life free of sickness and pain, there are ways to navigate the fear of a vet. To the joy of dog lovers everywhere, there are certain breeds that face very few health problems and are generally healthier and happier with longer lifespans. If you’re a pet parent who can’t stand the idea of their pup suffering, here are seven of the healthiest dog breeds out there.
1. Australian Cattle Dogs
Not only is the Australian Cattle Dog absolutely gorgeous, but they’re also one of the healthiest breeds in the world. These big, muscular dogs are active and athletic, one of the main factors that contribute to their stellar health.
This breed is said to live for an average of 12-16 years, which is longer than the average pooch, especially of a larger breed! The Guinness Book of World Records has it noted that the longest-living dog (ever!) was an Australian Cattle Dog named Bluey, who lived to be 29 years old, narrowly missing his big 3-0.
These dogs make incredible family pets, especially for a more active household – their history as herding dogs means that their exercise needs are higher than the average pup.
2. Border Collies
Staying on theme with the herding background, next on the list is the loveable Border Collie. The same factors apply here, too—Collies are active, energetic, and full of life. Perhaps if we took a page out of these dogs’ books and took our exercise seriously, we might all be a little healthier!
Aside from being active, healthy, and loyal, loving pets, Border Collies are also known for being one of the most intelligent breeds out there. This is just one more factor that makes them a firm favorite for dog lovers. They’re easy to train and eager to please, on top of being hardy and always ready for a rough and tumble on the grass.
3. Beagles
When it comes to smaller to medium-sized breeds, Beagles are up there with the healthiest of the hounds. These food-loving pups will do absolutely anything for a treat, but their high energy levels make up for their eating habits and keep them slim, trim, and fit.
Beagles are yet another loving and affectionate breed that is popular as a family companion. One of their very few health risks is obesity, and so their exercise needs mean that they require a lot of attention and prefer to go on longer walks. But this is something that could benefit the whole family’s health, and aside from this, they’re incredibly low-maintenance pets.
4. Siberian Huskies
Huskies are graceful and elegant-looking dogs. But don’t be fooled! These four-legged beauties have absolutely no fear of hard work or getting down and dirty. As sled dogs, they’re powerful and muscular, both factors that contribute to their great health.
As you might have guessed, Siberian Huskies require a lot of daily activity to maintain their good health, as well as to keep them mentally stimulated and prevent them from getting bored inside the house. Without burning up their energy, they can be prone to destructive behavior!
Your Husky can live for around 14 years if they’re active, well-fed, and properly loved.
5. Basenjis
A less commonly known breed is the Basenji, an African dog who doesn’t bark like your average Poodle. Instead, a Basenji is known for his slightly strange yodeling – but he’s well-loved anyway.
These dogs, often looking like they’re wearing a three-piece suit, are medium-sized pups with excellent longevity. They typically live between 12 and 16 years and struggle with very few health problems throughout their long lives, thanks to their high activity levels.
Their glossy, short coats are low maintenance, and they make wonderful pets – even coping well with a smaller space so long as they’re taken out for regular walks to burn off that energy!
6. Shiba Inus
The breed we all affectionately recognize as “Doge” is actually known as a Shiba Inu, an adorable Japanese fluff-ball of a dog. These charming dogs, one of Japan’s monument breeds, are world-famous thanks to the Doge meme, but they’ve been a popular pet choice long before.
While their grooming requirements are higher than some dogs, the Shiba Inu has a strong immune system that matches their strong personalities. They’re an active breed, which contributes to their overall health, and they’re prone to becoming anxious and agitated if they don’t get regular exercise.
7. Havanese Dogs
This native Cuban breed of dog is a pipsqueak pup, with a heart to make up for its size. They’re tiny and affectionate, the ideal pet for seniors or children, and they’re easy to train too, thanks to their high intelligence.
These dogs are highly adaptable and can happily live in a small apartment or a big home, in hot or cold weather. They have long lifespans of up to 16 years and have moderate exercise requirements due to their smaller stature. A few short daily walks will be enough to keep your Havanese healthy and happy!
Because of their longer coats, they’ll need to be bathed and brushed more regularly, and it’s important to keep their eyes clean to avoid any eye infections.
Final Thoughts
No matter which breed you choose to be your companion, taking care of their health is a part responsibility. Whether you pick a breed that has minimal health problems or a breed that’s known to struggle with genetic conditions, you’ll always need to be alert and aware of your dog’s health.
Even the healthiest breeds can become ill or hurt themselves, so make sure you prioritize a healthy diet, regular exercise, and annual vet check-ups for your pup to ensure a long and happy life for the both of you.
