When it comes to finding the healthiest dog breeds, science has a lot to say. Studies have been conducted on everything from which breeds are most likely to suffer from certain health conditions, to which ones live the longest.
According to a study conducted by the University of Zurich, the healthiest dog breeds are Australian Cattle Dog, Basset Hound, Beagle, and the Border Collie. These dogs are least likely to experience health problems., which leads them to have a higher life expectancy.
These are 34 breeds of dogs that are relatively healthier than the rest. Keep reading to find out if your pup is on the list!
34. Beagle
Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years
This gentle breed is popular for its affable and easy-going nature which makes it a great family pet. Beagles are great companions for both children and adults due to their upbeat and charming personalities.
Though small in stature, Beagles are pretty sturdy and hardy with few genetic illnesses. This breed has a lifespan of up to 15 years and will do well in most environments due to its versatile nature.
33. American Eskimo Dog
Life expectancy: 13 to 15 years
The beautiful American Eskimo Dog is not just popular for its striking looks but also for its affable and friendly nature. This breed makes a great family pet and gets on very well with children.
Although this is one of the healthiest dog breeds, it is prone to obesity and requires proper nutrition and plenty of exercises. An Eskimo Dog that does not get enough exercise can become high-strung and destructive.
32. Bichon Frise
Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years
The feisty Bichon Frise is more than just an adorable companion. These little pups have few health problems and can live up to 15 years with the right nutrition and care.
Bichons are playful and charming pups that will do well even with small children. However, they do require frequent grooming to keep their puffy coats pristine. Bichons also love attention and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
31. Siberian Husky
Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Despite their wolf-like appearance, Huskies are affectionate, friendly, and calm dogs. Their social nature makes them lousy watchdogs but great family pets.
With a life expectancy of up to 15 years, Huskies are one of the healthiest breeds that you can adopt. However, these independent dogs can be willful and stubborn and will require firm consistent training. You will also need to ensure that your Husky gets plenty of exercise and regular grooming.
30. Poodle
Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Poodles are great for people with allergies because these intelligent pups are hypoallergenic. They shed very little and will not trigger your dog’s allergies.
Poodles are a sturdy energetic breed that is not prone to ill-health and can live up to 15 years. Although this breed is pretty easy to train due to its high intelligence, these pups can be wary of strangers if not properly socialized.
29. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years
If you fancy a pooch that will always keep you entertained, the Welsh Corgi is the breed to go for. These active pups are always up to something and require plenty of mental and physical stimulation.
Corgis are one of the healthiest dog breeds with few health issues. Adaptable, obedient, and energetic, the Corgi makes a great companion. However, this breed does have herding tendencies that can make it a nuisance around children.
28. Havanese
Life expectancy: 13 to 15 years
Havanese make great lap dogs. These pups are affable, affectionate, and small enough to do well even in small spaces. Havanese are also a healthy breed that can live an average of 14 years with the right care.
The adorable Havanese coat should be brushed frequently to avoid mats. Although they do require regular grooming, Havanese shed very little. This intelligent breed is also easy to train and makes a great family pet.
27. Whippet
Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Whippets are fast, graceful medium-sized dogs that have the same lineage as Greyhounds. These pups are one of the healthiest breeds with little to worry about in terms of health problems.
These pups make great house pets since they are one of the calmer and quieter breeds. Whippets are also very affectionate and intelligent. They make great family pets and with proper care, you can enjoy up to 15 years with these affable dogs.
26. German Pinscher
Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years
German Pinschers are lively, intelligent dogs that can be a bit spirited. These graceful dogs have few health concerns and can live up to 14 years.
This breed can be prone to cataracts but is generally a sturdy and healthy breed. German Pinschers require plenty of exercise and activity so they will not do well in small spaces. This breed also needs plenty of socialization to avoid behavioral problems.
25. Labrador Retriever
Life expectancy: 10 to 14 years
Labradors are one of the most popular dog breeds and for good reason. These dogs are adaptable, friendly, and affectionate companions.
This breed can live up to 14 years and is one of the healthiest dog breeds. However, you will need to watch out for obesity as Labs are known for their voracious appetites. Plenty of exercises and proper nutrition is paramount if you want your Labrador to enjoy a long healthy life.
24. Shetland Sheepdog
Life expectancy: 12 to 13 years
Shelties are lively intelligent dogs that make great family pets. These obedient pups are easy to train and are considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds.
Shelties live long and healthy life. However, they can be prone to eye problems so regular eye checkups are recommended. This breed requires plenty of grooming and sheds quite a bit but if you do not mind a little dog hair, these pups are delightful companions.
23. Manchester Terrier
Life expectancy: 14 to 16 years
The goofy Manchester Terrier is the perfect combination of adorable and spunky. This active breed makes a loyal and devoted companion who will do well in an active environment.
Like most Terriers, this breed can be prone to Glaucoma so you will need to have his eyes checked regularly. However, Manchester terriers can live a long and healthy life of up to 16 years and are one of the healthiest dog breeds.
22. Shiba Inu
Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Bred as a hunting dog, the Shiba Inu is known for its agility, speed, and bravery. This spirited pooch is independent and can be a handful if you are a first-time owner. That said, Shiba Inus are extremely intelligent and easy to train.
This breed is one of the healthiest breeds with few health problems. However joint supplements are recommended since like other active breeds, Shiba Inus can be prone to hip dysplasia.
21. Pug
Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years
If you want a furry friend who is affectionate and charming, Pugs definitely fit the bill. These smart pups rarely bark and will make the ideal companion if you live in a small space.
Pugs can be susceptible to breathing problems due to their short snouts but overall, this is a healthy breed that will live a long life. Watch out for obesity with these pups as Pugs can pile on the pounds fast if not exercised regularly
20. Pomeranian
Life expectancy: 12 to 16 years
Smaller breeds tend to live longer and the Pomeranian falls into this category. These sassy toy dogs are not just adorable, but they also happen to be one of the healthiest dog breeds.
Pomeranians have few health problems and they only require moderate exercise. Though small in stature, Poms can be bossy and should be supervised around children. This breed also needs regular grooming to keep its double coat healthy.
19. Miniature Schnauzer
Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Protective, alert, and spirited are some of the traits that make the Mini Schnauzer a great watchdog. This breed is sturdy and has few health problems making it one of the healthiest dog breeds.
Mini Schnauzers need plenty of exercises to expend their high energy levels. These playful and energetic pooches thrive in active environments with plenty of physical and mental stimulation.
18. German Shorthaired Pointer
Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years
German Shorthaired Pointers are energetic and boisterous dogs that are ideal for active lifestyles. Apart from hip dysplasia, this breed has few health issues and is one of the healthiest breeds you can adopt.
If you go for these affectionate pups, you will want to make sure that they get lots of exercises. This breed may not do well with other pets due to their natural hunting instinct.
17. Dachshund
Life expectancy: 12 to 16 years
Aptly referred to as the sausage dog, this short-legged breed is playful, stubborn, and energetic. While loyal and protective of their owners, Dachshunds can be aggressive towards strangers. This breed can be difficult to train especially for first-time pet parents.
Dachshunds are extremely sturdy and can live up to 16 years. However, this healthy breed is susceptible to spinal problems due to its long spinal column.
16. Border Collie
Life expectancy: 10 to 17 years
Commonly referred to as the most intelligent dog breed, Border Collies are not just smart but also incredibly healthy. These dogs can live as long as 17 years with proper care and nutrition.
Border Collies are an extremely active and energetic breed that requires plenty of exercises. You will find that these pups are excellent watchdogs because of their protective nature. However, they do have herding tendencies and may be wary of strangers.
15. Belgian Malinois
Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years
The Malinois is an alert, loyal breed that makes excellent watchdogs. This breed is pretty active and requires plenty of space and frequent exercise. Its stubborn nature can make the Malinois difficult to train for new pet parents.
Although it is one of the healthiest dog breeds, these dogs can be prone to eye problems and regular eye checkups are recommended.
14. Basenji
Life expectancy: 12 to 16 years
Basenjis are a hypoallergenic breed that is ideal for people with allergies. This low-maintenance breed needs very little grooming and sheds very little. Loyal and affectionate, Basenjis make great family pets but they can be overprotective if not socialized early.
This energetic and sturdy breed has few health problems. Although quite intelligent Basenjis can be hard to train and require lots of patience and consistency.
13. English Springer Spaniel
Life expectancy: 12 to 16 years
This breed is very affable and social so if you want a watchdog these friendly pups will not do. English Springer Spaniels are obedient and easy to train which makes them great family pets and companions.
This breed has few health problems and is one of the healthiest breeds you can adopt. Hip dysplasia can sometimes be an issue for these active pups but overall, they are sturdy low maintenance dogs.
12. Australian Shepherd
Life expectancy: 13 to 15 years
If you love the outdoors, the Australian Shepherd makes a great companion. This intelligent and hardworking breed thrives on plenty of mental and physical stimulation.
Though it can be prone to eye problems, the Australian Shepherd enjoys a long healthy life with few health problems. These dogs need plenty of attention and exercise so they will only do well in active environments.
11. Bergamasco
Life expectancy: 13 to 15 years
This patient, affable, and intelligent family dog is very unique in appearance. Its long matted coat is non-shedding and low maintenance. These muscular dogs are extremely healthy and can live up to 15 years with few health problems.
Bergamascos are independent and self-sufficient pups that require firm training. However, these pups are very loyal and make excellent family dogs that get on very well with children.
10. Pharaoh Hound
Life expectancy: 11 to 14 years
The graceful and athletic Pharaoh Hound was bred for hunting and its lithe body is strong and healthy. This breed is one of the healthiest dog breeds and has few genetic health issues.
Affectionate and playful, this breed makes a great companion and family pet. However, these pups do not do well with other pets and may have aggressive tendencies towards other dogs.
9. Brittany
Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years
The fun-loving and upbeat Brittany is a sturdy and healthy breed that can live up to 15 years. These dogs are very active and hardworking meaning that they thrive in environments with lots of physical activity.
Brittanys make great sports dogs because of their energetic and obedient nature. They can be prone to hip dysplasia so looking after their joint health is important. This versatile breed makes great family pets due to its mild temperament.
8. Canaan Dog
Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years
This naturally alert breed is a popular watchdog. Its vigilant and intelligent nature makes it territorial and protective. Canaan dogs can be wary of strangers and their confident nature requires firm handling and training.
This rare breed has a life expectancy of up to 15 years and is one of the healthiest breeds. Canaans are very resilient and adapt well to most environments.
7. Ibizan Hound
Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years
Like other Hound breeds, the Ibizan Hound has few genetic health problems. This healthy breed has a life expectancy of up to 14 years and does well in most environments.
This breed is anything but boring and its charming nature is complemented by its intelligence. These pups get on particularly well with children and make delightful family pets. This breed is not much of a barker so it will not be a noise nuisance for you or your neighbors.
6. Shih Tzu
Life expectancy: 10 to 16 years
The adorable Shih Tzu may be small in stature but this breed is quite sturdy and can live as long as 16 years. These pups are sassy, intelligent, and independent. If you love lapdogs, Shi Tzus are ideal.
While Shih Tzu is one of the healthiest dog breeds, you will need to watch out for a few health conditions, such as ear infections and eye problems.
These pups also require quite a bit of grooming but their beautiful coats are well worth the effort.
5. Pekingese
Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years
This toy breed is very sturdy and muscular for its small stature. The adorable-looking Pekingese is also quite feisty and independent. While these pups are affectionate and very loyal, they do not do well with little children.
This healthy breed can live as long as 15 years with proper care and has few genetic health issues. Pekingese can do well in small spaces but they do require regular exercise and plenty of grooming.
4. American Pit Bull Terrier
Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years
This stocky and athletic breed is quite healthy and has a lifespan of up to 15 years. Though considered playful and affectionate, Pit Bull terriers can be quite stubborn and strong-willed.
Pit Bull terriers need plenty of socialization and proper training to stave off aggressive tendencies. This breed is strong and energetic and generally does well in an active environment with plenty of stimulation.
3. Chihuahua
Life expectancy: 12 to 20 years
Chihuahuas may be the smallest dogs in the world but they are also one of the healthiest breeds. These spunky pups have very few genetic illnesses and can live up to 20 years.
Their feisty personalities and affectionate nature are what make these pups so adorable. However, Chihuahuas can be overprotective and this can lead to aggressive tendencies. If you have small children Chihuahuas may not be the best breed for you.
2. Greyhounds
Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years
Large breeds tend to have shorter life spans than small breeds. Greyhounds are the exception to this rule. These fast and agile dogs can live up to 14 years and are one of the healthiest dog breeds you can adopt.
Affectionate, quiet, and loyal, Greyhounds make great family pets. This breed is typically large and can weigh up to 75 lbs. This means Greyhounds are not suited to small spaces.
1. Australian Cattle Dog
Life expectancy: 13 to 14 years
Australian Cattle Dogs are sturdy dogs that can live as long as 14 years. They have few health problems but you will need to watch out for retinal atrophy with this breed.
Australian Cattle Dogs are popular for their agility, intelligence, and loyalty. Due to their protective nature, these dogs make great watchdogs. Blue heelers are an active working breed that will suit you if you have an active lifestyle.
Related Questions
Which Breed Of Dog Has Least Health Problems?
Chihuahuas are one of the dog breeds with the least health problems. This breed has a lifespan of 12 to 20 years and tends to live longer than the average dog lifespan of 10 to 13 years. On average, smaller dog breeds like the Chihuahuas live longer because they have fewer health issues than larger breeds.
What Dog Breed Do Vets Recommend?
The dog breed that most vets recommend is the Golden Retrievers. They are obedient which makes them easy to live with and assimilate into the family. Golden retrievers are people-pleasers and even new pet parents can cope well with this affable breed.
What Is The Most Easiest Dog To Take Care Of?
Dachshunds are considered one of the easiest breeds to take care of. Dachshunds are a low-maintenance breed that requires very little grooming. Due to their small stature, Dachshunds can get by on moderate exercise. Since this breed is also one of the healthiest dog breeds it is not prone to illnesses.
