Whilst being rewarding in so many ways (from companionship to unconditional love), dog ownership can be a costly affair when sickness strikes – not to mention emotionally difficult for owners to see a pet unwell.
Therefore choosing a dog breed that is less prone to certain health conditions can help reduce expenses and ensure a pet has the healthiest and longest life possible.
While it’s never a guarantee, some dog breeds tend to live longer than others and there are a few generally considered by experts to be healthier than others – which means you’ll spend less time at the vets.
PDSA Vet Nurse Gemma Renwick tells Country Living: “Whilst there’s no guarantee one dog will be healthier than another, there are some common breed-related health issues that are worth being aware of if you’re considering getting a dog.
“Each dog is an individual, so even though their breed may be more prone to certain health concerns, it doesn’t mean one dog from that breed group is definitely going to suffer from a breed-related condition or illness, however the chances are higher.”
According to the Guinness World Records, some of the oldest living dog breeds include Chihuahua, and Chihuahua Crossbreed, Fox Terrier, and Australian Cattle Dog. A couple of these appear on our shortlist below, but read on for the hardiest and healthiest dog breeds, according to vets…
Australian Cattle Dog
According to Dr Liza Cahn, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance, the Australian Cattle Dog is one of the healthiest and hardiest breeds out there. These working dogs – known for their intelligence and stamina – are less prone to disease.
However, due to their high energy, they need an owner who is willing to give them plenty of physical (and mental) exercise to tire them out.
Border Collie
Another herding breed on the list, Border Collies are also considered a hardy and healthy breed, with an average lifespan of 12-15 years. Experts say their drive for work and exercise means they're more likely to stay strong as they age.
Bill Lambert, a spokesperson for The Kennel Club, previously told Country Living: “They make great working dogs, but they can also be a loving pet as long as owners provide this very energetic breed with enough exercise and mental stimulation.”
Australian Shepherd
Next on the list is the Australian Shepherd. Known for their gorgeous coats and unique markings, these working dogs are bred to be resilient – plus their active lifestyle contributes to better health.
A spokesperson from The Kennel Club previously told us: “Despite their slightly deceptive name, their origins actually come from America where they worked as a sheepdog on the ranches.
“Outside of their working background, they enjoy exercise that satisfies their herding instincts, and is a reason why they often excel in many canine activities, such as agility, obedience and heelwork to music, as well as seeing success in the show ring.”
Husky
While Huskies can be high maintenance, with a thick double coat that needs regular grooming, they are one of the healthiest dog breeds. Dr Cahn told The Express: “Bred for cold climates and tough physical tasks, Huskies have evolved into a naturally strong and hearty breed.”
Beagles
“As active hunting dogs, Beagles stay fit, contributing to their overall robust health,” Dr Cahn explains.
With their gentle, affectionate and friendly temperaments, they also make great family dogs.
Crossbreeds
Not quite a single breed, but PDSA Vet Nurse Gemma Renwick adds that crossbreeds or mixed breeds tend to be healthier, as their genetic diversity can lower the risk of inherited conditions.
Gemma adds: “Depending on the mix of breeds, certain dog breeds when bred together can be potentially healthier than purebred dogs, as extreme or exaggerated features can be reduced when crossing different breeds together.
“Purebred dogs and those bred with exaggerated or extreme features can be at higher risk of certain health problems. Some exaggerated physical features include very flat faces, often associated with French Bulldogs, Bulldogs, and Pugs. As well as excessively wrinkled skin, such as the wrinkles seen on Shar Peis.”
How you can choose a healthier, happier pet
- Gemma says: “Think about getting a different breed without a flat face and choose a pet without the extremely exaggerated features. For example, a pet with the longest possible muzzle, fewer wrinkles, or longer legs.
- “Consider a crossbreed – they have similar personalities and looks to purebred breeds but often have less exaggerated features. This means they can have a lower risk of the serious health problems.
- “If you’re buying rather than rescuing, make sure you thoroughly research a good breeder who has the best interests of the litter at heart. Also, make sure your dog’s parents have been health tested to check they don’t have any problems they might have passed on to your puppy.”
Lizzie is the Daily Editor at Country Living, where you’ll find her writing about unique property market finds and dreamy UK staycation spots. Her specialisms include interiors, property, wildlife, travel, slow living and more. Previously, she’s written for Metro, Evening Standard, Ideal Home, Woman & Home and various other home and lifestyle titles. Lizzie studied English Literature at University of Liverpool, where she also was a writer and editor for her uni paper.
