Many factors play into a dog’s health, just like humans. Some particular breeds, however, are associated with fewer hereditary or genetic diseases, and fewer bone, skin, and coat problems than others. Your dog may not be a member of any of these breeds and still live a longer, healthier life than some that are. Many dogs of the breeds listed below, however, may suffer from few or no health problems for the majority or all of their lives when given regular exercise and a proper diet.

Here are 8 of the healthiest dog breeds, along with some of the potential health concerns that are associated with them.

Shiba Inu

These small but athletic dogs experience very few health problems. Originally from Japan, the Shiba Inu is known for acting like a big dog in a little, but strong, body. They’re very loyal to their owners. Shiba Inus come with a lot of attitude, personality, and energy. They make great watchdogs, as they tend to be very vocal. They typically live around 12-16 years.

Health Concerns: hip dysplasia, patellar luxation

Australian Cattle Dog

Australian cattle dogs were originally bred by sheepherders in Australia. They make good family pets, as they are known for being great around kids. Their playful, energetic, and intelligent nature make them good for owners who enjoy staying active. These dogs typically live 12-15 years and experience very few health problems.

Health Concerns: hip or elbow dysplasia, deafness

Poodle

Poodles are hardy, healthy, and have a life expectancy of 12-15 years or more. They are family-friendly dogs, extremely intelligent, and love to play and make their owners laugh. There are three types of poodles: standard (largest), miniature, and toy (smallest).

Health Concerns: hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease, Cushing’s syndrome

Greyhound

Greyhounds have sweet, mild temperaments and love the companionship of their owners. While they’re known for their amazing speed, with the ability to run over 40 MPH, they actually love to lie around the house and sleep, which is where they get the nickname, “the 40-mph couch potato.” You don’t have to be a top athlete to own a Greyhound. He’ll be satisfied with a short daily walk and life in a small home or apartment. These dogs typically live 10-13 years.

Health Concerns: bloat, bone cancer, dental problems

Border Collie

These energetic, people-pleasing, intelligent dogs typically live 12-16 years. Border collies are known as the best herding dogs in the world. They have an amazing ability to focus and get their work done. Only consider getting a Border collie if you have plenty of time and energy to devote to keeping him busy!

Health Concerns: hip dysplasia, epilepsy

Chihuahua

Make sure to buy from a good, reputable breeder, and the smallest dog in the world might also make one of the healthiest pets. The average lifespan for a Chihuahua is 14-18 years! These little dogs are loyal, smart, and only require a small amount of exercise due to their size. Chihuahuas love people and have big personalities, but be careful if you pass by a larger dog. Your Chihuahua may forget his size and aggravate the larger dog, putting himself in harm’s way. Because they are so very small, Chihuahuas are fragile and must be vigilantly supervised around children and other animals.

Health Concerns: hypoglycemia, patellar luxation

Beagle

These hound dogs are active and hardy. They are known for being extremely playful and energetic and for sniffing everything in their paths. Because they do tend to bark quite a bit, they don’t make the best apartment pets. They follow their noses wherever they lead, so make sure you have a fenced in yard to keep your pup safe and in his own space. If you plan on getting a beagle, make sure you love exercise! They typically live for 10-15 years.

Health Concerns: hip dysplasia, intervertebral disk disease

Siberian Husky

These beautiful dogs, which were originally bred for sledding and racing, make great family dogs for those who love the outdoors and staying active. They have a lifespan of 11-13 years and are considered very healthy, medium-sized dogs.

Health Concerns: hypothyroidism, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy

Other very healthy dog breeds:

• Foxhound
• German shorthaired pointer
• Belgian Malinois
• Doberman
• Australian shepherd
• Basenji
• Bichon Frise

DOG TRAINING IN SEATTLE

The Dog’s Way has several great dog training resources available, including Sean McDaniel’s dog training DVDs and The Dog’s Way Podcast. If you live in the Seattle area and are interested in being in the training video that we will be filming in August, click one of the buttons below! If you’re chosen to be in the video, you will recieve FREE dog or puppy training!

Apply for Free Dog Training!