16 Healthiest Dog Breeds for a Happy Pet and Lower Vet Bills

The Havenese dog breed is one of the healthiest out there. Given their breezy temperament, these types of pups often live low-stress lives, which prevents them from developing a lot of lifestyle-related illnesses. Their strong genetic diversity and well-balanced features also contribute to their exceptional health. Plus, they live up to an average of 16 years, which is especially high for a toy breed!

Chihuahuas are generally a very robust type of pup. Although they can be susceptible to dental and joint issues, they have few life-threatening hereditary issues, which makes them one of the healthiest dog breeds. Since they reach up to 20 years, their lifespan exceeds the average!

With their lean frame, Greyhounds are easily recognizable. Their build and body type are also what gives them the ability to live long, healthy lives. Since they were bred for athleticism, this kind of pet has a strong heart and great stamina. Just beware that they could develop joint issues or dental problems later in life.

Poodles of all sorts—Standard Poodles, Toy Poodles, Miniature Poodles—are some of the healthiest, especially for purebred dogs! Not only are they intelligent and loyal, but they’re also proportionate and athletic. Poodles also live nearly two decades long.

This working dog is another durable breed. As long as you get one from a reputable breeder, they’re unlikely to develop breed-specific issues. Like all dogs, with proper diet and exercise, you can minimize the likelihood of certain diseases and health concerns.

Like Greyhounds, Whippets have a lean and athletic stature that keeps them healthy. Due to their simple, well-proportioned features, they have fewer genetic issues. Compared to other larger breeds, their lifespan is relatively high.

Tough and energetic, these hardworking dogs thrive on frequent activity. “Australian Cattle Dogs are built for endurance and benefit greatly from an active lifestyle,” Dr. Cahn says.

Ranked as one of the smartest dog breeds around, Border Collies are also incredibly healthy. Their love of mental and physical activity keeps them in tip-top shape. “Their need for stimulation and movement helps them maintain excellent overall health,” Dr. Cahn adds.

With their stunning coats and endless energy, Australian Shepherds have a reputation for enjoying both work and play. “Their need for both physical and mental engagement naturally supports their health,” Dr. Cahn explains.

Beautiful and built for stamina, Siberian Huskies stay healthy through their love of exercise. “Bred for cold climates and tough physical tasks, Huskies have evolved into a naturally strong and hearty breed,” Dr. Chan notes.

This ancient, clean, and independent breed has few genetic health issues. Known for their signature yodel-like bark, Basenjis are naturally strong. As Dr. Cahn says, “Their long, natural evolution has made them less prone to genetic health risks.”

Mixed-breeds like Labradoodles often benefit from “hybrid vigor,” meaning their genetic diversity lowers the risk of inherited conditions. According to D. Cahn, mixed-breeds avoid some of the health challenges that purebreds tend to adopt.

With their distinct fox-like appearance, Shiba Inus are independent dog breeds that maintain good overall health. “Shibas are an ancient breed with strong genetics, promoting long-standing wellness,” Dr. Cahn says.

Beagles are energetic and friendly breeds that tend to remain healthy due to their love of outdoor adventures. Dr. Kahn adds that this healthy dog breed has a history of being an active hunting dog, which contributes to their overall health.

This family-favorite dog breed balances friendliness with great health. Although they do require some maintenance to ward off joint issues, according to Dr. Chan, with exercise and a proper diet, they’ll thrive.

These small dogs with a lively personality stay in good health as long as they’re given proper care. Their size makes them less prone to many major health problems, though their ears need attention to prevent infections, Dr. Cahn says.