Top 5 Healthiest Dog Breeds in Centennial, CO

We all want our pets to live for as long as possible, but some dogs are generally known to be much healthier than others. This means they tend to have fewer health problems, which means less frequent vet visits and a potentially longer life.

In this article, we will be taking a closer look at the top five healthiest dog breeds. Additionally, we’ll explain why some dogs are healthier than others and how you can ensure you’re getting the healthiest dog possible.

 

What Dog Breeds Are the Healthiest?

Good health is determined by good breeding. Now, this does not exclusively refer to reputable dog breeders. All kinds of mixed breeds can benefit from genetic characteristics passed down by their predecessors, and not experience certain congenital defects that mainly affect purebred dogs.

To increase the chances of a healthy litter, dog breeders have a responsibility to properly test and evaluate their dogs before breeding them. For example, the PennHIP test helps breeders determine a German Shepherd puppy’s risk for canine hip dysplasia and painful osteoarthritis. With responsible breeding, a German Shepherd is much less likely to pass on hip dysplasia to its offspring.

 

So, which dog breeds are less at-risk for deformities and other health issues? Below is our list of the top 5 healthiest dog breeds.

The Top Five Healthiest Dog Breeds

Currently, the five healthiest dog breeds we have today are:

  • Australian Cattle Dog
  • Shiba Inu
  • Standard Poodle
  • Whippet
  • Beagle

Let’s take a closer look at each of these dog breeds and see why they’re among the healthiest!

 

The Australian Cattle Dog

Australian Cattle Dogs are high-energy and highly athletic, so it’s no surprise they’re on this list. Of course, with responsible breeding practices that aim to reduce instances of hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and deafness, many naturally-occurring health issues can be prevented or lessened.

Another testament to the health and hardiness of the breed is an Australian Cattle Dog named Bluey, who made it to the ripe old age of 29 (1910-1939). His memory lives on as he continues to hold the title of world’s oldest dog, bestowed by Guinness World Records.

Top 5 Healthiest Dog Breeds in Centennial CO

 

The Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is a cute and petite Japanese dog breed known to be quite healthy. Some health conditions to look out for in this breed include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, allergies, epilepsy, and eye issues. Fortunately, these problems are not exceedingly prevalent, and they can be reduced or alleviated with good breeding.

As far as we know, the oldest Shiba Inu lived to nearly 27 years old.

 

The Standard Poodle

Standard Poodles are generally quite healthy as well, with few serious health problems plaguing the breed. As with other pure dog breeds, Poodles can be screened for health issues and bred responsibly to minimize those issues. Health problems that can affect Poodles include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, thyroid disorders, and progressive retinal atrophy. Even so, the average lifespan of a Standard Poodle is about 12-15 years.

 

The Beagle

Beagles are yet another dog breed that is known to be very healthy. Health issues they can experience include congenital heart defects, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), patellar luxation, and glaucoma. With careful breeding and routine health checkups with a veterinarian, the beloved Beagle can live about 10-15 years, on average.

healthiest dog breeds in Centennial, CO

 

The Whippet

The last entry in our top 5 healthiest dog breeds list is the Whippet! Whippets originated in England, and are closely related to Greyhounds. As with other breeds, Whippets can live long, healthy lives if they are well-bred and see their vet regularly for checkups and treatments.

Conditions that can affect this breed include genetic eye problems, such as progressive retinal atrophy and corneal dystrophy, allergies, and Von Willebrand’s Disease, a condition in which the blood is unable to clot properly. Fortunately, such conditions are rare, and the average life expectancy for Whippets is about 12-15 years.

 

What About the Unhealthiest Dog Breeds?

We think all dogs are wonderful the way they are. However, just as there are plenty of healthy, hardy dog breeds around, there are also some dog breeds that are more likely to have health issues. This does not mean one breed is necessarily better than the other, of course. If you tend to favor one of these less generally healthy breeds, be sure to do your research before adopting and make sure you’re prepared to take good care of your new pet! They deserve the best, just like any other canine companion.

 

Here is a short list of some of dog breeds more susceptible to health problems:

  • Bulldog (English and French)
  • Pug
  • Shar Pei
  • Great Dane
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
  • Cocker Spaniel

At the end of the day, every dog breed has its pros and cons, especially if you’re looking for a loving companion that fits best into your home and lifestyle. A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel just might be a better addition to your household than an Australian Cattle Dog, the latter of which requires a lot of activity, exercise, and enrichment. The dog you can love, cherish, and live harmoniously with is the right dog for you.

 

If you have any questions about your canine or need to schedule an appointment, give us a call today at [303-850-9393]!

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