Everyone knows that getting a dog is an investment. Your new furry friend can bring plenty of joy to your life, but they come with plenty of bills too. Food, vaccines, toys and of course, the dreaded vet bill can all add up pretty quickly and leave your wallet feeling much lighter.
However, there are certain breeds of dog which are less prone to illness, which could save you some cash if you decide to invest in one of these charming canines. According Dr Liza Cahn, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance, there are 10 different breeds which are less likely to see you spending half your life at the vet.
Australian Cattle Dog
Starting off strong, the Australian Cattle Dog is known to be a hardy breed. These working dogs are incredibly high energy and need an owner with plenty of time to tire them out on walk, but they are not prone to disease.
Dr Cahn told thepioneerwoman.com that these dogs make great pets: “Australian Cattle Dogs are built for endurance and benefit greatly from an active lifestyle.”
Border Collie
Another working breed that is known for its health is the Border Collie. These dogs are not only one of the smartest breeds, but their drive for work and exercise means they’re more likely to stay strong as they age.
Australian Shepherd
Next up is another Aussie breed – the Australian Shepherd. These beautiful dogs are famous for their gorgeous coats and as working dogs, they are bred to be resilient.
Siberian Husky
Huskies can be a lot of work – their thick double coats need regular grooming to stay in tip top condition, but they are also one of the healthiest breeds you can get.
Dr Cahn said: “Bred for cold climates and tough physical tasks, Huskies have evolved into a naturally strong and hearty breed.”
Basenji
These quirky canines are not only a healthy breed but a quiet one too. Due to the structure of their vocal chords this working breed physically cannot bark which makes them great for someone who wants a quieter pet.
Shiba Inu
These dogs are an ancient breed, and known to be healthy because of their strong genetics. Their unique fox-like appearance and relatively small size make them a popular breed.
Beagle
Beagles are another active breed, originally bred for hunting which makes them one of the healthier canines. Dr Cahn said: “As active hunting dogs, Beagles stay fit, contributing to their overall robust health.”
Labrador Retriever
This breed is a family favourite for their friendly and lovable nature but they are also a relatively healthy dog.
Although they require a proper diet and regular exercise they can thrive. However, they do require maintenance to prevent joint issues which can become a problem.
Cocker Spaniel
These smaller dogs are a popular and healthy breed as their size makes them less likely to develop problems. However, their ears require regular grooming to prevent infections.
Mixed-breed dogs
Mixed-breeds like Labradoodles often benefit from “hybrid vigour,” according to the vet, which means their genetic diversity lowers the risk of inherited conditions.
