When you are planning to get a dog, you have to consider their health. After all, dogs have a shorter lifespan than ours in the first place. They generally live between 10 and 15 years. And because dogs become an integral part of our lives, it is hard to say goodbye to an old champ. When you plan to get a dog, you have to consider its health. After all, dogs have a shorter lifespan than ours. They generally live between 10 and 15 years. And because dogs have become an integral part of our lives, it is hard to say goodbye to them when the time comes. So, if you are planning to get a dog, it’s essential to consider things like finding a vet near you and purchasing pet health insurance to keep it healthy throughout its life. Additionally, you probably want to adopt a dog with a longer lifespan.
There is no rule that your dog will love a longer or shorter life. After all, there are many other factors that determine that, including diet, exercise levels, environment, and more. But the breed definitely plays a role. Some breeds are just more prone to health issues that can be life-threatening. With that in mind, which are the healthiest dog breeds? Let’s take a look.
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Beagles – 15 years
If taken care of, the Beagle will live a long and happy life. He is almost invulnerable to health issues. Beagles have the ideal size, they are not large (which helps them with large dog issues like hip dysplasia), and they are not small, so they avoid breathing issues. As a purebred, the Beagle can live up to 15 years.
Beagles are friendly, energetic, and great with children. All of that makes them ideal family dogs. If trained properly, they can be emotional support animals as well. Simply put, the Beagle can adjust to any lifestyle.
Shiba Inu – 16 years
You can notice a pattern as we go along the list. Medium-sized dogs are usually the healthiest breeds. This mid-size dog has only one issue, he can become aggressive if not trained and socialized while young.
Shiba Inus are quite territorial pets, and they do not do well with other animals. But they love their humans, and they can comfort you for up to 16 years. They do require a confident owner who will be patient in their training. They can be quite stubborn and strong-willed, so make sure you are firm and consistent in your training.
Australian Cattle Dog – 15 Years
This dog breed actually holds the Guinness World Record. Bluey holds the record, after living for 29 years. This herding breed was developed in Australia for droving cattle over long distances. All of that walking and exercise help the breed to live a longer and healthier life. He is actually predisposed for a longer lifespan.
His temperament can be challenging for novice owners. He tends to be herding even at home, and if not socialized, can be grumpy and aggressive toward other animals. He does well with children if he is raised with them and accepts them as part of the family.
Belgian Malinois – 14 years
This is one of the most intelligent dog breeds you will find. No, the Malinois might not be in the top 10 smartest dog breeds. But they are quite intelligent. The problem is they have a dominant and alpha character, which might be challenging for trainers.
You have to be smart in order to be considered police and military dog. And the Malinois excels in those environments. Obedient and smart, they are also quite analytical. They analyze the situation before making a move. And because of their athletic ability and lifestyle, they can live a long and healthy life.
Siberian Husky – 12 years
The Siberian Husky is one of the more popular breeds, and it is all because of their model-like appearance. You can even say they look sexy. And when you look into their blue eyes, you just cannot help it but fall in love.
Their character is also quite positive. The Husk is affectionate, friendly, and outgoing. But be warned, they have quite an independent character. The Husky will try to go his own way, even if you have other ideas.
That is the reason they need experienced trainers and owners. Otherwise, they can be mischievous, and cause problems.
Bichon Frise – 15 years
One of the few small breeds on this list, the Bichon might be the cutest and most adorable dog here. What makes him an ideal family pet is his character and appearance. He looks cute and has a hypoallergenic coat. To translate that, it means he does not shed. With dark eyes and a big smile, the Bichon Frise will make you fall in love with him instantly.
Most importantly, they love spending time with their owners and making new friends. Despite the lack of exercise, the Bichon can live quite a long life. They are not energetic and prefer cuddling in your lap than going out.
Chihuahua – 20 years
One thing you have to pay attention to when getting a Chihuahua is a reputable owner. In the past several years, there has been a lot of inbreeding. That is because the litter of the Chihuahua is small, usually two to three puppies. Inbreeding can lead to a lot of health issues.
But when acquired from a reputable breeder, you can expect your Chihuahua to go long pass 15 years, and up to 20 years. Their small size makes them a great lap dog.
The Chihuahua has a challenging temperament. They bark a lot and are not friendly with other dogs. Instead, they are afraid of bigger dogs and can bark as a way to defend themselves. But they are not aggressive. They are all bark and no action.
Border Collie – 12 years
The Border Collie is considered the smartest dog breed alive. Well, when you are that smart, you tend to take care of your body. What helps is his need to move. The Border Collie will run around even at old age, and that is all thanks to his natural herding ancestry.
He manages to stay young at heart and stay busy well into his life.
Greyhound – 13 years
Same as with humans, health is closely linked with the body and weight. The Greyhound has a lean body, he is active, and all of that helps him stay healthy for most of his life.
Intelligent and loyal, he is easy to train. Because he has natural running instincts and ancestry, the Greyhound requires a lot of exercise. But it will pay off, as your dog will stay healthy. They can live up to 13 years.
Dachshund – 20 years
Because of his long body and short legs, the Dachshund has earned the nickname “wiener dog”. His body prevents the most common health issues. He doesn’t suffer from any joint or muscle problems, or eye problems. One thing that is common among Dachshunds is urinary stones, but those are easily treatable and preventable. Just make sure your dog drinks clean water.
With the right diet and proper amount of exercise, the Dachshund can live up to 20 years. And that is a long period in the canine world.
Labrador Retriever – 13 years
The Lab is one of the few large breeds that actually lives a long and happy life. Yes, they can be prone to diseases like hip dysplasia, but they are rarely affected by life-threatening issues like cancer.
Their high intellect and exercise keep them healthy. Playful, fun, friendly, lovable, and obedient, the Labrador is the ideal family pet. Which is why he is ranked as the number one most popular dog in America for a couple of years.
And the best part is they stay young and playful at old age as well.
German Pinscher – 15 years
This dog looks similar to the Doberman Pinscher, but that is because they share a common ancestry. He has a strong and muscular body but manages to stay lean as well. You just look at the dog and you know he is an athlete.
Considered a medium-size dog, he was accepted by the AKC in 2003.
Poodle – 14 years
Poodles are largely considered one of the healthiest dog breeds ever. They do not suffer from any serious health issues, they exercise moderately, and are a medium-sized dog. Those are all factors that play in their long lifespan.
Poodles are great for people with an active lifestyle, as they will be eager to please you and keep it up. They love spending time with the family, no matter what is happening.
Miniature Schnauzer – 15 years
Many of the terrier dog breeds live a long and happy life. That is because most terriers are considered medium-sized dog. The Miniature Schnauzer lives even more thanks to his muscular body and fearless attitude. His best trait is his versatility. He can easily adjust to a quiet family home or a farm, or even to living in a big city.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi – 13 years
These sassy dogs enjoy playing and finishing tasks. He is originally a herding dog, and if you do not give them tasks, they will entertain by herding children or pets.
Easy to train, the Corgi is obedient and loyal. They are comfortable in any weather, which is why they live a long and happy life.