Between feed costs, leashes, bedding, and all the goodies you end up buying, being a dog owner can become an expensive business – before you even think about insurance and veterinary bills.
To keep unexpected costs, pet fears, and stressful veterinary visits (for you and your dog) to a minimum, it may be an idea to consider which breed to choose when choosing your next puppy.
According to the American Kennel Club, these 10 breeds in particular are less prone to malaise and require as many vet visits.
Of course, all dogs will have their own individual health problems at some point, but these breeds have proven to be a bit more resilient in terms of health …
Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Australian Cattle Dog, also known as Blue Heeler or Red Heeler (depending on the coat), is a breed of dog from Australia. The breed has been used from the start to help with cattle handling. In Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, as well as Argentina and Uruguay, it is also widely used by gauchos for raising livestock.
(Image: Getty)
1. Australian cattle dog
You don’t see them very often in the UK, but an Australian Cattle Dog named Bluey is in the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest dog to reach the proud age of 29 (203 canine years). Longevity must mean healthy genes, right?
2. Chihuahua
These little puppies are really lucky in the health department. In fact, as they age, their ailments tend to mimic their human counterparts – eye problems and heart problems.
3. Greyhound
Sleepy but quick, greyhounds generally stay in good shape, although depending on their size, they can develop musculoskeletal problems.
Close horizontal portrait showing the face of a brindle and white adopted pet greyhound. Wears a fleece jacket and lays her head on a blanket
(Image: Getty)
4. Beagle
These dogs have a brilliant sense of smell and the ability to stay reasonably healthy, although they keep an eye on their hips and eyes as they age.
5. Poodle
Poodles can live up to 18 years old and can live quite happily most of the time without too many vet visits. Eye problems and joint problems can only arise in later years.
6. Havenese
Fluffy Havenese dogs tend to be small and therefore a little more prone to liver and kidney disease than larger dog breeds. That said, Havenese are generally considered to be super healthy little puppies.
Close-up portrait of young male siberian husky standing on the road
(Image: Getty)
7. Siberian husky
Given their ability to pull sleds and be happy in icy conditions, Siberian Huskies are reliably tough. However, your eyes and hips can be a bit of a problem as you get older.
8. Border collie
Deafness and epilepsy can affect older Border Collies, but most other conditions have been successfully bred out of the breed, which can put your mind at ease.
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9. Airedale Terriers
Cancer is the leading killer of Airedale terriers, but otherwise you can generally expect them to lead pretty healthy little lives.
10. German pinscher
These pointy-eared dogs have excellent longevity and resistance to badness. Old age can be a little awkward (isn’t it for everyone?) But otherwise, they are strong contenders for the healthiest breed of dog.
