Vet-Approved: These 10 Dog Breeds Stay Healthy For Years (Low Vet Bills, Long Life!)

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a commission. Here’s how it works.

Bringing a dog into your life is more than just an exciting journey; it’s a lifelong commitment filled with love, companionship, and a deep desire to give them the healthiest, happiest life possible. Whether you’re welcoming your first pup or adding to your pack, you want a dog that will thrive by your side for years to come. Many lists claim to rank the “healthiest dog breeds.” The truth is, no single list can guarantee which breeds will live the longest or avoid health issues entirely.

With hundreds of breeds and countless individual factors at play, there’s no universal formula for perfect canine health. Every breed and mixed breed has the potential to develop health problems. Instead of focusing solely on breed rankings, the key to a healthy, long-lived dog lies in a mix of genetics, responsible breeding, proper nutrition, and lifelong care. While some breeds tend to have fewer health issues, every dog deserves the best possible start in life. After all, the healthiest dog isn’t just about breed statistics. It’s about the love, care, and attention you give them daily.

Beyond the Cuteness: How to Pick a Healthy Dog

Bringing home a puppy is an exciting, life-changing decision. Choosing a healthy, happy pup from the start can make all the difference in their future. You want a dog who will grow strong, thrive by your side, and enjoy a long, vibrant life. But what matters when picking a puppy beyond wagging tails and adorable faces? From responsible breeders to early health screenings, nutrition, and genetics, every choice you make now shapes your pup’s well-being for years to come.

Do Your Breed Research: More Than Just Looks

Before bringing home a puppy, take a step back and do your homework. This decision will shape your dog’s health, happiness, and your life for years to come. No matter how adorable a pup may be, choosing a breed on impulse can lead to heartbreaking challenges for both of you.

Think about your lifestyle. A high-energy breed like a Border Collie thrives in an active home where they have jobs to do. Without enough mental and physical stimulation, they can develop stress, anxiety, and even obsessive behaviors. Yes, dogs can struggle with mental health, too.

On the other hand, trendy flat-faced breeds like French Bulldogs and Pugs may look cute, but did you know that many suffer from severe anatomical deformities that cause serious health issues (and cost you a lot to manage)? Many brachycephalic breeds suffer from serious breathing issues and other painful health problems due to extreme breeding practices. These issues aren’t rare. They’re built into the breed, and sadly, some owners don’t realize the lifelong costs (both financial and emotional) until it’s too late.

Choosing the right breed isn’t just about what you want. It’s about your future dog’s needs. Find a breed that fits your lifestyle, energy level, and ability to provide proper care. A well-matched pup will live a healthier, happier life, and you’ll build a bond that lasts a lifetime.

Genetic Testing: Unlocking Your Dog’s Health Blueprint

Advancements in genetic testing have given us an incredible window into a dog’s health and ancestry, helping both breeders and pet owners make informed decisions. Today, there are two main types of DNA testing for dogs:

1. Health Screening Tests: These detect genetic markers for inherited diseases. They allow breeders to identify and reduce the risk of passing on conditions like hip dysplasia, heart disease, and neurological disorders. Some tests can even predict a dog’s likelihood of developing certain cancers or vision problems later in life.
2. At-Home DNA Tests: If you’ve ever wondered about your dog’s breed mix or potential health risks, consumer DNA tests (like Embark or Wisdom Panel) provide a deep dive into their ancestry and genetic health markers. These kits are simple. Just swab your dog’s cheek, send it to a lab, and receive a detailed report on their breed composition and potential predispositions to health conditions.

Responsible dog breeders are working to reduce the prevalence of diseases in their breed by testing when available. If you are buying a dog rather than adopting it from a rescue organization, speak to the breeder about their puppies and testing practices. A responsible breeder will be happy to discuss this with you.

Hidden Health Risks: Why A Pup’s Environment Plays a Huge Role

A puppy’s first weeks of life shape their future health and temperament, and their environment plays a crucial role in that foundation. A responsible breeder will welcome you into their home, allowing you to see the puppies with their mother in a clean, nurturing space. If the breeder refuses a visit, insists on delivering the puppy to you, or seems to have an endless supply of puppies, those are serious red flags. Puppies raised in poor conditions may face lifelong health and behavioral issues, and many unethical breeders do everything they can to hide the reality of where these puppies come from.

Trustworthy breeders care deeply about where their puppies go. They will ask questions about your lifestyle, experience, and ability to meet the breed’s needs before allowing you to visit. This is not about making the process difficult. It is about ensuring their puppies find loving, responsible homes. If a breeder seems more interested in making a quick sale than in the long-term well-being of their dogs, walk away. A healthy, well-bred puppy is worth the wait, and finding the right match will bring years of joy and companionship instead of heartbreak and unexpected vet bills.

Beware of These Red Flags: Protect Yourself & The Puppies

Bringing home a puppy should be a joyful experience, not a heartbreaking mistake. Unfortunately, not every breeder has the well-being of their dogs in mind. Puppy mills and irresponsible sellers exploit innocent dogs for profit, leaving families devastated when their new pup develops severe health issues or worse. If you’re adopting, be wary of red flags that signal unethical breeding. Here’s what to watch for.

Internet Ads: A Breeding Ground for Scams

Be extremely cautious when browsing online ads for puppies, especially on sites like Craigslist or social media marketplaces. Reputable breeders do not rely on mass advertising. Instead, they connect with potential owners through trusted breed clubs, The American Kennel Club, word of mouth, or their own websites.

One major red flag is seeing the same seller posting multiple litters or offering several different breeds at once. This is a strong indication of a puppy mill or backyard breeder, and it is best to walk away.

The Harsh Reality of Puppy Mills

Puppy mills are high-volume breeding operations where dogs are treated as nothing more than money-making machines. Mothers are bred repeatedly until their bodies give out, then discarded when they are no longer profitable. Puppies from these facilities are often sick, malnourished, and traumatized, forced to live in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions.

Warning signs of a puppy mill include:

• The breeder will not allow you to visit or meet the puppy’s mother.
• They have multiple breeds for sale at the same time.
• Puppies are sold in large numbers or listed on multiple online platforms.
• The facility appears dirty or overcrowded, or the breeder refuses to show it.
• Puppies are separated from their mother too soon, before eight weeks of age.
• No health checks, no vaccinations, and no proper documentation
• The breeder does not ask any questions about your home, experience, or ability to care for the dog.

Even if you find yourself in a situation that screams “puppy mill,” it can be almost impossible to resist the desire to “rescue” a puppy. We’re only human, and it can be heartbreaking to see puppies suffering. However, it is best to walk away and report the facility to your relevant authority in these situations.

The puppy you bring home will likely develop severe health issues resulting from parasitic or viral infections, which can be expensive and often impossible to treat successfully. This usually means these little puppies will die soon after bringing them home, which can be extremely distressing for the whole family.

Rescue Dogs: What to Know Before Adopting

Adopting a rescue dog is more than just finding a pet; it’s saving a life and gaining a loyal companion. Organizations like the ASPCA, Humane Society, and local rescue shelters are filled with incredible dogs, most of whom are rarely purebred but always full of heart. These dogs come from all walks of life; some are strays, and others were surrendered by owners who could no longer care for them, but they all share one thing: an endless capacity for love.

Rescue dogs are often much more affordable than those purchased from breeders, and by adopting, you’re helping lower the number of homeless animals in your community. If you’ve got your heart set on a specific breed, breed-specific rescues can help you find the perfect match while still giving a dog in need a second chance. Whether mixed or purebred, every rescue pup has the potential to become a devoted, loving companion who will fill your home and your heart for years to come.

Bear’s Story: A Rescue Dog Who Gave Endless Love Despite Failing Health

When one of our team members adopted Bear from a local rescue, she thought she was giving him a second chance at life. What she didn’t realize was how much he would change hers. Bear was gentle, loving, and full of heart, but behind his soulful eyes was a body struggling with serious medical issues that would shape the rest of his life’s journey. His story is one of resilience, love, and the unbreakable bond between a dog and the person who refused to give up on him.

When I adopted Bear, I thought I was saving him. What I didn’t realize was how much he would change me. I knew he was mine from the moment I saw him, a 10-week-old Labrador Retriever mix with big, soulful eyes. He had been found on the side of the road with his littermates, their past a mystery. But at that moment, all I saw was a happy, wiggly pup who deserved a loving home.

For the first couple of years, Bear seemed like any other dog: playful, affectionate, and full of life. Then, one day, everything changed. Out of nowhere, his body stiffened, his legs trembled, and he collapsed into a seizure. It was terrifying, heartbreaking, and completely unexpected. The vet confirmed my worst fear. Bear had epilepsy. And it wasn’t just a one-time event. It was the first of hundreds of seizures that would define the rest of his life.

The vet explained that epilepsy can be genetic, and Black Labs are prone to it. Shelter dogs, despite the love and care they receive, often come with unknown medical histories. There was no way to know Bear’s lineage, no breeder records, and no DNA testing at the shelter. The only certainty was that his condition would never go away.

Some people might have chosen to give up to avoid the stress and expense of a chronically ill dog. More than one vet gently told me that many owners opt for euthanasia rather than take on the emotional and financial toll of caring for a dog with special needs. But that was never an option for me. Bear was my best friend, my family, my heart. So, I did what any dog lover would. I changed my life to fit his needs.

The medication helped, but it never stopped the seizures entirely. Over time, the disease took its toll, not just on his body but on his mind. In his senior years, I watched as his once-bright spirit dimmed, each seizure stealing a little more of the dog I knew. But through it all, Bear never stopped loving fiercely. He lived to be 12 years old, a long life for a dog who had so much working against him.

– Danielle DeGroot, Rescue Dog Mom, Canine Journal Research & Writing

Raising A Healthy Dog

Building a trusting relationship with your local veterinarian can be hugely beneficial when you bring a new puppy into your life. They will be able to guide you on important things, such as vaccination schedules and anti-parasite medications relevant to your geographic area.

They will also be able to help you make informed choices when it comes to your new puppy’s nutrition and things like training, socialization, exercise, and spaying or neutering. Knowing these things can allow you to give your pup the very best start in life, which sets them up for good health in adulthood.

A Reminder Before You Adopt: There Is No Such Thing As Perfect

Even with perfect breeding and care, any dog can get poorly. As a vet, I have had many clients blame themselves when their fur baby presents unwell. Thankfully, I can say this has rarely happened. Sadly, injury and illness are sometimes unavoidable in pet ownership in even the ‘healthiest” breeds. Each breed has a list of diseases for which they are at risk, and in-depth breed research can allow you to make informed decisions when choosing your new puppy.

Pet Insurance

Pet insurance or at least a savings account for your pup’s medical expenses should be considered an essential part of pet ownership. There is no escaping that veterinary costs can be extremely expensive, sometimes prohibitively, depending on your financial situation. Having a good insurance policy allows you to make the best healthcare choices for your pet without worrying as much about the money. Keeping your policy paid and active ensures coverage for your pet’s lifespan (within your policy coverage details) and should not leave you high and dry if your pet develops a chronic illness.

10 Healthy Dog Breeds That Stand the Test of Time

No single “healthiest” dog breed exists, but some breeds are known for their strong genetics, long lifespans, and relatively few health issues when responsibly bred and properly cared for. A recent study from the Royal Veterinary College in the UK examined over 30,000 dogs across 18 breeds to determine average life expectancy, and some of the longest-lived breeds made our list.

While every dog’s health depends on nutrition, exercise, and proper vet care, these breeds are often praised for their resilience and longevity.

Labrador Retriever: The Ultimate Family Dog with a Heart of Gold

Labradors are the classic family dog, known for their friendly nature, boundless energy, and endless appetite for snacks (watch your sandwich around a Lab!). With an average life expectancy of 10-12 years, Labs are generally healthy when responsibly bred, though they can be prone to hip dysplasia and obesity if not carefully managed. Learn more about nine common Labrador Retriever health issues before adopting.

Despite their goofy, lovable personalities, Labradors thrive with a job to do, whether it’s retrieving, therapy work, or simply stealing your heart. Responsible breeders screen for common genetic conditions, helping these affectionate companions live long, happy lives.

Greyhound: The Lightning-Fast Athlete That Loves to Lounge

Despite being built for speed, Greyhounds are surprisingly lazy and make fantastic couch companions once they are done racing. These gentle giants have very few genetic health issues and an impressive life expectancy of 10-14 years.

Their sleek, low-maintenance coats and lean build mean they are less prone to joint problems than some heavier breeds. Just be ready to provide a few quick sprints, followed by hours of lounging in their favorite spot, usually your couch.

Australian Cattle Dog: The Undisputed Champion of Longevity

This is one hearty breed. Australian Cattle Dogs are hardy, intelligent, and practically indestructible. In fact, the Guinness World Record for the oldest dog ever belongs to a Cattle Dog named Bluey, who lived an astonishing 29 years and 5 days.

With an average lifespan of 12-16 years, these energetic dogs thrive with an active lifestyle. They need plenty of mental and physical stimulation, or they might entertain themselves by redecorating your furniture with their teeth.

Beagle: A Big Nose, a Big Personality, and a Surprisingly Long Life

Beagles are curious, loyal, and always up for mischief, especially if food is involved. Their sturdy build and strong genetics contribute to a 10-15-year lifespan, and responsible breeders can screen for common health issues.

These pack-oriented dogs make great family pets, but their love of following their noses can lead to selective hearing when off-leash. If you want a Beagle, be ready for some creative training sessions and a lifetime of adorable, pleading eyes begging for treats.

Border Collie: The Einstein of the Dog World

Border Collies are brilliant, energetic, and practically unstoppable. If you don’t give them a job, they will invent one, whether that’s herding your children, chasing squirrels, or organizing their toys by color.

Border Collies have a lifespan of 12-15 years, and they are generally hardy dogs with few significant health issues. They thrive in active homes where their intelligence and agility are put to good use. If you’re not ready for a high-energy, problem-solving genius, this might not be the breed for you.

Parson Russell Terrier: The Mighty Mini and Underrated Health Champ

These lively, inquisitive little dogs are fearless explorers with a zest for life that keeps their owners entertained. With an average life expectancy of 13-15 years, Parson Russell Terriers are generally healthy and energetic, though their adventurous spirit can sometimes land them in trouble.

Parson Russell Terriers have few serious health concerns when responsibly bred, but they do require mental and physical stimulation to stay happy. If you’re looking for a small dog with a big personality and endless energy, this breed is for you.

English Springer Spaniel: A Happy-Go-Lucky Ball of Energy That Never Quits

Generally speaking, English Springer Spaniels are intelligent, affectionate, and always ready for action. They thrive in active homes where they can run, swim, and play to their heart’s content. With a lifespan of 12-14 years, they are generally healthy, though they can be a little accident-prone due to their fearless enthusiasm.

Responsible breeders screen for common conditions like hip dysplasia and ear health, but overall, these dogs are sturdy, happy companions who bring joy and chaos in equal measure.

Yorkshire Terrier: A Pocket-Sized Pup with a Remarkably Long Lifespan

Yorkshire Terriers may be tiny in size, but they have huge personalities and a surprisingly long lifespan of 13-16 years. In fact, the RVC study found that Yorkshire Terriers had one of the highest life expectancies among all breeds.

Despite their delicate appearance, Yorkies are bold, spirited, and energetic. They can be long-lived and healthy companions with proper care and responsible breeding, though their luxurious coats require regular grooming.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier: The Muscular Lovebug with a Loyal Heart

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier may have a tough exterior, but this is an affectionate, friendly, and incredibly loyal breed. Bred away from their fighting roots, today’s Staffies are gentle, loving family dogs with strong, muscular builds and relatively few major health concerns when responsibly bred.

With an average lifespan of 12-14 years, these dogs are known for their resilience and playful nature. Responsible breeders screen for hereditary conditions, but with proper care, Staffies remain healthy, energetic companions who love nothing more than being part of the family.

Chihuahua: The Tiny Titan with a Giant Lifespan

Chihuahuas may be small, but their prominent personalities and strong genetics make them one of the longest-living dog breeds, often reaching 14 to 17 years or more. Fiercely loyal and full of sass, these little dogs bond deeply with their owners and thrive on companionship.

Despite their feisty confidence, Chihuahuas are delicate and prone to dental disease, tracheal collapse, and luxating patella. Heart conditions like mitral valve disease can also develop over time, making regular vet checkups essential. With the right care, these tiny titans will keep you entertained, cuddled, and on your toes for well over a decade.

Have you adopted one of these fantastic breeds? If so, or if you have another healthy breed to discuss, please share it with us in the comments section below.

Which Healthy Dog Breed Is Right for You?

Every dog’s health depends on responsible breeding, proper care, and a loving home. While these breeds tend to have strong genetics and long lifespans, finding the right match for your lifestyle, energy level, and commitment is just as important as breed choice. Whether you’re looking for an active herding dog, a laid-back couch companion, or a tiny but mighty terrier, choosing the right breed can set the foundation for a long, happy life together.

Are Mixed Breeds Actually Healthier?

The debate over whether mixed-breed dogs are healthier than purebreds has been ongoing for decades. Many believe that mixing breeds reduces the likelihood of genetic disorders, leading to stronger, healthier dogs, a concept known as hybrid vigor. While there is some truth to this, the reality is more nuanced.

Hybrid vigor, or heterosis, suggests that genetic diversity reduces the risk of inherited health problems commonly seen in purebred dogs. However, not all mixed breeds benefit from this advantage. If two parent breeds are predisposed to the same genetic condition, their mixed-breed offspring can still inherit those health risks. This is particularly relevant in designer breeds, such as Goldendoodles or French Bulldogs, where popular parent breeds may both be prone to issues like hip dysplasia, heart disease, or brachycephalic airway syndrome.

The Science Behind Hybrid Vigor

Hybrid vigor occurs because greater genetic diversity can lower the chances of recessive genetic disorders expressing themselves. In purebred dogs, selective breeding over generations has sometimes intensified genetic weaknesses, making certain conditions more common in specific breeds. By introducing new genetic material, mixed-breed dogs may have a lower risk of these inherited diseases, but this is not guaranteed.

Additionally, mixed breeds may be more genetically unpredictable. Their size, temperament, and health risks are more challenging to predict compared to well-documented purebred lines. While some may live exceptionally long, healthy lives, others may develop unexpected hereditary conditions that responsible breeding could have helped prevent.

Purebred vs. Mixed: What the Data Says

Several studies have explored this phenomenon. A 2013 study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) analyzed 27,254 dogs and found that mixed breeds had a lower risk for 10 out of 24 genetic disorders, including conditions like elbow dysplasia and bloat. However, they were just as likely as purebreds to develop other diseases, such as cancers, heart disease, and epilepsy.

The RVC study examined over 30,000 dogs and found that the average life expectancy of mixed-breed dogs is 11.82 years. While this is longer than some purebred dogs, it is not significantly higher than many breeds known for their longevity, such as Yorkshire Terriers (13-16 years) or Border Collies (12-15 years). Interestingly, the study found wide variations in lifespan across both purebred and mixed-breed dogs, reinforcing the idea that lifestyle, veterinary care, and genetics all play significant roles in a dog’s longevity.

A more recent study by the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (VMBS) and the Dog Aging Project (DAP) gives even more insight. The 2023 study, published in the journal Frontiers In Veterinary Science, found that “purebred dogs in the DAP did not show higher lifetime prevalence of medical conditions compared to mixed-breed dogs, and a higher proportion of purebred dogs than mixed-breed dogs had no owner-reported medical conditions. Individual breeds may still show higher lifetime prevalence for specific conditions.”

5 Tips To Keep Your Dog Healthy at Every Life Stage

Your dog depends on you for a long, happy, healthy life. No matter your dog’s age or breed, you have the power to help them thrive with a few key habits.

1. Fuel Their Body With the Right Nutrition – A dog’s health starts in the bowl. Feeding a balanced, high-quality diet tailored to their breed, size, and activity level keeps their body strong and their immune system resilient. Puppies need nutrient-dense food to support growth, while senior dogs benefit from joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine and omega fatty acids. Avoid fillers and artificial additives, and keep treats to less than 10% of your dog’s daily calories to maintain a healthy weight.
2. Exercise Their Body and Mind – A tired dog is a happy and well-behaved dog. Daily exercise keeps their heart strong, their weight in check, and their energy balanced. But movement isn’t just about staying fit. Mental exercise is just as important. Incorporate puzzle feeders, scent work, and new challenges to keep their minds sharp and engaged.
3. Stay on Top of Veterinary Care – Routine vet visits catch health problems before they become serious. Puppies need vaccinations and deworming. Adults require annual wellness exams, and seniors benefit from biannual checkups to monitor for age-related issues. Dental health is also crucial. Brushing your dog’s teeth and providing dental chews can help prevent gum disease, which has been linked to heart and kidney problems.
4. Maintain a Healthy Weight – Weight is one of the most significant factors in a dog’s lifespan. Extra pounds strain joints, increase the risk of diabetes, and reduce energy levels. Instead of free-feeding, use measured portions and adjust food intake based on your dog’s activity level.
5. Create a Safe, Loving Home – Dogs thrive in safe, loved, and mentally enriched environments. Provide cozy resting spots, avoid extreme temperatures, and never underestimate the power of routine and positive reinforcement. Training should be consistent, rewarding good behavior instead of punishing mistakes.

Your Dog’s Best Life Starts With You

Your dog depends on you for a long, happy, healthy life. Whether they’re a playful puppy or a wise senior, every choice you make, from their food to their exercise to their vet care, shapes their well-being. Start today by evaluating their diet, activity level, and overall health. Schedule that vet checkup, take them on an extra walk, or simply spend more time showing them love. Small changes make a big difference, and your dog will thank you with wagging tails and endless loyalty. Ready to give your pup the best life possible? Take action today and be the reason they thrive.

Why Trust Canine Journal?

Emma Rogers-Smith, DVM, is a veterinary surgeon who earned her degree from Cambridge University. She then worked as an Internal Medicine Clinician at a large multidisciplinary referral hospital in the UK. Dr. Rogers-Smith has always been passionate about solving puzzles; the tricky Internal Medicine cases are her favorite. She has published several first-author research papers and is actively involved in ongoing Internal Medicine and Antibiotic Stewardship research projects.