Despite the fact that it is practically impossible to predict which dog breed will live the longest or be the healthiest, some breeds seem to have a reduced incidence of hereditary illnesses, bone-related injuries, and skin and hair issues. Examine which dog breeds are considered to be among the healthiest and how you may help your dog live a long, healthy life.
1. The Australian Cattle Dog
While it is impossible to determine which breed is the healthiest, certain working breeds, such as Australian Cattle Dogs, may have the fewest health-related difficulties
Jennifer Coates, DVM in Fort Collins, Colorado, and veterinarian adviser for petMD.com, remarked, “Unfortunately, there are no concrete statistics that give a scientific solution.” In my experience, the healthiest dogs are those who are still being bred for a specific purpose.
Due to their intelligence, problem-solving abilities, and gentle yet firm bites with cattle, Australian Cattle Dogs have remained popular working dogs. With a lifetime of 10 to 13 years, Australian Cattle Dogs are ideal companions for active families and owners who are always on the go. Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and deafness are critical health problems.
2. Foxhound
Foxhounds have been employed largely for foxhunting, and because to their working dog genes, they may be healthier than dogs developed for exhibition.
“When breeders prioritise function above appearance alone, they automatically exclude the dogs that suffer incapacitating diseases or injuries,” Coates noted.
With a lifetime of 11 to 13 years and a low susceptibility to significant health issues, Foxhounds are a good option for families living in rural regions or on big farms. They must engage in modest daily physical activity.
3. German Shorthaired Pointer
According to Coates, the German Shorthaired Pointer, a versatile hunting dog recognised for its intelligence and ability with all forms of game and sport, is another healthy breed. German Shorthaired Pointers have an average lifetime of 12 to 14 years and are susceptible to hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, and stomach torsion. As a high-energy breed that demands a great deal of daily activity, German Shorthaired Pointers will require enough access to the outdoors and, as is the case with other breeds, mental stimulation throughout the day.
“Providing dogs with mental stimulation, physical activity, and keeping them at a healthy weight will go a long way toward preserving their health, regardless of their breed,” Coates said.
4. Border Collie
According to Coates, the Border Collie is one of the healthiest high-energy breeds known for its agility, intelligence, and obedience. Border Collies have a lifetime of 10 to 14 years and are susceptible to health issues such as epilepsy and hypothyroidism. Border Collies, a breed with a high degree of trainability and eagerness to please, need a great deal of daily activity and frequent access to the outdoors.
5. Mixed Breed
Coates said that mixed-breed dogs tend to be among the healthiest due to their unique genetic makeup and reduced amount of inbreeding.
She said, “A recent research revealed that mixed-breed dogs are considerably less likely to acquire eleven genetically-based disorders, such as some forms of heart disease, musculoskeletal difficulties, allergic skin disease, and hyperthyroidism.”
6. Chihuahua
According to Denise Petryk, DVM, director of veterinary services at Trupanion pet insurance, Chihuahuas are among the healthiest breeds, are loyal and clever, and are the smallest breed in the world. Chihuahuas have an average lifetime of 14 to 18 years and are known to suffer from hypoglycemia, patellar luxation, and pulmonic stenosis, a heart valve disease. A Chihuahua with a smooth coat needs little maintenance, but those with lengthy hair require brushing two to three times each week. Chihuahuas need less exercise beyond a brief stroll due to their small size.
7. Havanese
Petryk also rates the Havanese as a healthy breed in comparison to other dogs of the same size. Havanese, a popular pet noted for its pleasant disposition, live between 12 and 14 years and are susceptible to patellar luxation, deafness, and elbow dysplasia. The Havanese, a non-shedding breed that requires brushing several times a week to prevent tangles, requires short walks to fulfil its exercise requirements.
In addition to exercising your dog, Petryk advocates providing them with high-quality food and treats to maintain their health.
8. Australian Shepherd
According to Petryk, Australian Shepherds are also very healthy, with relatively few claims for bone-related injuries and disorders affecting the hair and skin. Australian Shepherds are bright, loyal, and nimble farm dogs who need frequent exercise and mental stimulation. The breed has an average lifetime of 12 to 15 years and is susceptible to hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and Collie Eye Anomaly, a hereditary congenital eye disorder. As with many dog breeds, Petryk suggests providing your Australian Shepherd frequent, high-quality flea and tick prevention using treatments suggested by your veterinarian to preserve its health.
9. Labradoodle
According to Petryk, Australian Shepherds are also very healthy, with relatively few claims for bone-related injuries and disorders affecting the hair and skin. Australian Shepherds are bright, loyal, and nimble farm dogs who need frequent exercise and mental stimulation. The breed has an average lifetime of 12 to 15 years and is susceptible to hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and Collie Eye Anomaly, a hereditary congenital eye disorder. As with many dog breeds, Petryk suggests providing your Australian Shepherd frequent, high-quality flea and tick prevention using treatments suggested by your veterinarian to preserve its health.
10. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky, a medium-sized dog famed for its ability as a sled and racing dog, is generally healthy compared to other breeds of the same size, according to Petryk. While the breed is still used as a working dog, it has also become a popular companion dog for busy families and outdoor enthusiasts. Siberian Huskies have a lifetime of 11 to 13 years and are susceptible to progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, and cataracts.
In addition to developing a connection with a trusted veterinarian, Petryk recommends familiarizing yourself with area emergency and specialized hospitals, learning to provide pet first aid, and obtaining pet insurance in case your dog has a health-related emergency.