Just like us, dogs can also be susceptible to certain health conditions based on their genetics. These problems often include heart disease, cancer, orthopedic problems, and even allergies and skin conditions. But some dog breeds tend to stay healthier than others and are less susceptible to certain diseases.
Here we bring you 10 dog breeds that tend to stay healthier during their life years.
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Beagle
Known for its keen sense of smell and hunting skills, the beagle is a medium-sized, moderately active dog with an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Beagles generally lead healthy lives. Health conditions associated with the breed, including eye and hip problems, usually occur when these dogs are older.
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Australian Mountain Dog
An athletic and intelligent breed, the Australian Cattle Dog can make an excellent running or hiking companion. These dogs have an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years with few health problems associated with the breed. However, its active nature can sometimes lead to joint or ligament difficulties due to wear and tear. But it can often be corrected with rest, medicine, or surgery.
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Chihuahua
Chihuahuas have a lot of personality and intelligence despite coming in a small bottle. It is also not uncommon for these little dogs to live close to 20 years. They generally remain healthy for most of their lives. But some breed-related health problems include heart and eye problems, along with patellar luxation.
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Greyhound
The greyhound is one of the fastest dog breeds in the world. These dogs live between 10 and 13 years. They are generally very healthy throughout their lives. However, like other dogs of similar physiognomy, they are susceptible to bloating and gastric torsion (twisting of the stomach), especially if they eat too quickly. This can be life-threatening, so it is important to monitor your diet.
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Poodle
Poodles have a reputation for being somewhat finicky, but these canines are really anything but. Poodles are not only highly intelligent, they are also extremely athletic and can be super active. In fact, they were originally bred as hunting dogs. With an average lifespan of 10 to 18 years, Poodles live longer and healthier lives than many other breeds. However, they can also be prone to joint and eye problems.
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Havanese
Hailing from Havana, Cuba, and securing its place as Cuba’s only native dog breed, the Bichon Havanese is a small, intelligent dog that is easy to train and extremely social. It usually has a long life, from 14 to 16 years. These dogs are generally healthy, but some can be prone to hereditary deafness.
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Siberian Husky
Best known for his sled-pulling strength and stamina, the Siberian Husky is a strong, athletic dog with boundless energy. It is ideal for those who like to take long daily walks or go for a run. These dogs have a lifespan of 12 to 16 years and are generally very healthy. Some are prone to eye and hip problems.
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Basenji
Basenjis are quite intelligent and athletic hunting dogs that have an almost cat-like nature. In fact, instead of barking, they make more of a yodeling sound and tend to preen like cats. These dogs have an average lifespan of around 13 to 14 years and typically do not develop many serious health problems. But the breed is prone to hypothyroidism and hip problems.
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Border Collie
Border collies are highly intelligent, athletic, and lively dogs. These dogs are hardy and generally healthy, with an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, although some can be prone to deafness and epilepsy.
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Mixed race/no race
Mixed dogs are the result of putting together different purebred dogs or different mixed dogs. They are usually not pedigreed or registered, but they can inherit the traits, both good and bad, of all the breeds in their bloodline. Still, because mixed-breed dogs have an extremely broad gene pool (unlike purebred dogs), it’s less common for them to be prone to specific genetic disorders. But, like any dog, mestizos are also a product of their environment and can develop conditions, such as canine obesity, if they do not lead a healthy lifestyle. They can live for many years, reaching 16-18 years.