The 10 healthiest dog breeds named by vet that hardly ever get ill
Whippets and beagles are among healthier dog breeds named by an expert in small animal medicine.
As we head into summer, a season reported to be one of the best times of year to get a puppy, we thought it prudent to put together a handy list of healthier dog breeds.
The health history of a breed is one of the top factors people consider when looking for a new pet, according to a study commissioned by Greyhound Board of Great Britain.
Graham Lewis is a vet and animal expert at Paragon Veterinary Group. His dedication for veterinary medicine has seen him be awarded the BSAVA Certificate in Small Animal Medicine.
The vet compiled a list of healthy dog breeds as reported by BBC Countryfile.
Graham said: “I see many dog breeds with genetic illnesses such as cavalier King Charles spaniels with heart issues, French bulldogs with breathing problems or miniature dachshunds with intervertebral disc disease affecting the spinal cord.
“These can all make good pets, however, with some breeds there is a good chance you will be seeing your vet for a lot more than the routine health checks.”
Graham then went on to choose several breeds that have a history of longevity and a decreased chance of genetic problems.
One of the top healthiest breeds according to Graham is the crossbreed.
A mongrel, especially with multiple crosses, has an excellent chance of minimising genetic predispositions to diseases and therefore can live healthier, longer lives, says Graham.
He added: “Size and shape makes a difference; as a general rule of thumb larger dogs don’t live as long as smaller dogs and flatter-faced dogs will be more prone to airway and breathing issues.
“But a true mixed breed has a low chance of any genetic problems compared to many purebred dogs. You also get the bonus of having a truly unique pet, as every single one will be a different mix.”
Here are the healthiest dog breeds according to an expert
- Crossbreed
- Australian cattle dog
- Jack Russell terrier
- Border collie
- Chihuahua
- Whippet
- Belgian Malinois
- Afghan hound
- Poodle
- Beagle