Nine of the healthiest dog breeds for loving dog owners

If you’re searching for a dog that will be your companion for a long time — and one that will likely save you on vet bills — here are a few to take a look at.

We love our doggos.

And … we also want our dogs to be healthy.

That’s why we take care of feeding them a healthy diet, taking them on walks, and getting them to the vet regularly for wellness checks.

Because, as every dog owner can tell you — a healthy dog is a happy dog. But here’s the thing. Some breeds are prone to genetic conditions, from joint issues to serious heart conditions to a whole host of other issues.

So if you’re looking for a new dog and want a healthy breed, take a look at some of these.

German Shorthaired Pointer

Breed Description

Hardworking, friendly and enthusiastic, German Shorthaired Pointers (GSPs) excel at physical tasks. GSPs respond well to training and bond deeply with their family. If you’re looking for a happy companion who is always up for a hike, run or swim, GSPs are a wonderful breed.

Health Overview

Although German Shorthaired Pointers are generally healthy, there are some conditions the breed may be prone to. These can include hip dysplasia, eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy, and certain heart diseases. They can also be affected by bloat.

Portuguese Water Dog

Breed Description

Portuguese Water Dogs are exceptionally smart, easy to train and eager-to-please. Bred to be a fisherman’s helper, Porties are well suited to handle dog sports such as agility, therapy work, tracking, and water work. They make great family pets, and their webbed feet are a delight to people just meeting them.

Health Overview

Portuguese Water Dogs are generally healthy. A Portie’s ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste designed for dogs.

Standard Poodle

Breed Description

While some may think of Poodles as nothing more than show dogs, true dog aficionados know the truth. Behind the gorgeous coat and elegant face is a highly intelligent, athletic and eager companion who can truly “do it all.” Plus, their low-allergen coat makes them appealing to people who are allergic to dogs.

Health Overview

Most Poodles live long, happy, healthy lives. As with all breeds, however, some health issues can occur, including hip dysplasia and several eye disorders. Idiopathic epilepsy, sebaceous adenitis, von Willebrand’s disease, and immune-mediated disorders are also seen in the breed on occasion. Standard Poodles can also be susceptible to bloat and sebaceous adenitis.

Australian Shepherd

Breed Description

Fixtures at rodeos, Australian Shepherds are smart, rugged, active and high-energy dogs. With an incredible herd impulse, these pups can keep even the most active owner busy. That’s why it’s recommended to socialize and train Aussies at a young age.

Health Overview

Aussies are generally healthy dogs, and a responsible breeder will test breeding stock for health concerns such as hip dysplasia, epilepsy, cataracts and certain forms of cancer.

Brittany Spaniel

Breed Description

With their versatility, energy and cheerful disposition, Brittanys are wonderful companions. Along with their beautifully patterned coats and “soft” faces, they’re also known for being affectionate and highly trainable.

Health Overview

The Brittany is a very healthy breed, with few genetic health issues. That said, responsible breeders will screen breeding stock for health concerns such as hip dysplasia and eye disease.

Basenji

Breed Description

Known as the Barkless Dogs, Basenji are remarkable canines and quite unlike what many are used to when they think of a dog. Thanks to their short coats and self-grooming, they’re also good dogs for people with allergies.

Health Overview

Basenji are generally healthy dogs, and responsible breeders screen for health disorders such as hypothyroidism, a type of inflammatory bowel disease called IPSID and canine hip dysplasia. Gene tests are available to identify carriers of Fanconi syndrome, a kidney disorder, as well as progressive retinal atrophy.

Miniature Schnauzer

Breed Description

The Miniature Schnauzer is an outgoing, family-oriented little breed. They’re sturdy, smart and get along with kids and other animals. Bred to be farm dogs and ratters, they also enjoy exercise and are brave but not aggressive.

Health Overview

The Miniature Schnauzer is generally a healthy breed. There are a few conditions that the breed can be prone to, including cataracts, hyperlipidemia, pancreatitis, liver shunts, and urinary stones.

Shiba Inu

Breed Description

The most popular dog in Japan, the Shiba Inu is a spirited watch dog that is a bold, confidant breed that loves its owner. Given their somewhat independent spirit, early training is essential for them.

Health Overview

Like most people (and dogs), the most common health condition in Shibas is allergies. Allergies usually don’t manifest themselves until a dog is at least 6 months old. There is no way of testing breeding stock, but dogs with active allergies should not be bred.

Chihuahua

Breed Description

For a tiny dog, Chihuahuas pack quite the personality. Clever, charming and brimming with sass, these rascals can win your heart … and rule the house without proper training.

Health Overview

The majority of Chihuahuas are healthy little dogs, but there are some genetic issues that can affect the breed. Some of the issues that can possibly affect the Chihuahua include potential heart problems, eye disease, and loose kneecaps. Idiopathic epilepsy is also known to occur in the breed.

* All breed descriptions and health overviews are adapted from The American Kennel Club. To find complete breed details, visit akc.org and enter the breed type in the search bar.