The 30 Healthiest Dog Breeds In The World

Thinking about adding a new furry friend to your life? It’s an exciting step filled with joy and hopeful anticipation—though it’s perfectly normal to feel a twinge of sadness knowing that pets don’t stay with us forever. But what if you could stretch those precious years a little longer? Certain breeds, like Poodles and Shih Tzus, are known for their impressive lifespans, often living up to 18 years.

Of course, longevity isn’t just about the breed. A nutritious diet, consistent exercise, and regular vet checkups all play a huge role in your dog’s overall health. Even high-energy breeds like Dachshunds can enjoy long, vibrant lives with proper care. So if you’re looking for a companion who’ll stick by your side for many years, let’s explore the breeds that are known for their lasting, loving presence.

Bergamascos Aren’t Prone To Many Things

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Bergamascos are considered “robustly healthy” and aren’t known for breed-specific health problems. While hip and elbow evaluations are still advised, these dogs are typically in good overall health.

Their playful temperament and low aggression levels are as memorable as their unique, dreadlock-like coats. The thick, woven hair—known as flocks—offers both insulation and protection, which may contribute to their impressive average lifespan of up to 15 years.

English Springer Spaniels Are Tougher Than They Look

English Springer Spaniels charm everyone with their gentle expressions and cheerful personalities, making them a delight to be around. But beneath their adorable appearance lies a determined, energetic breed originally developed for hunting.

These dogs need regular daily activity to stay physically and mentally fit, and they thrive when they can work closely with their humans. Affectionate and eager to please, they enjoy interactive play and being part of the family routine. While they can be susceptible to a few health issues, the American Kennel Club reports they are generally robust and often live up to 14 years.

Cairn Terriers Are Adaptable Little Companions

Cairn Terriers may be small—reaching up to 10 inches in height and weighing about 14 pounds—but they have a bold spirit. These versatile pups are just as happy racing around the yard as curling up for cuddles on the couch, needing only a moderate amount of exercise.

Whether you call a bustling city or peaceful countryside home, these little dogs thrive with plenty of love and attention. They’re typically healthy and often enjoy lifespans of up to 15 years.

Shiba Inus Live Long Despite Their Allergies

If allergies tend to trouble you but you still want a pet who might be a good match, a Shiba Inu could be the perfect fit. These stunning dogs generally enjoy a healthy lifespan of 13 to 16 years, with few health concerns aside from occasional itching caused by allergies.

Top breeders work diligently to avoid passing down allergy-prone genes, but even Shibas with sensitivities can lead long, happy lives. Compared to more serious health problems, mild allergy symptoms are a minor inconvenience that shouldn’t affect your Shiba’s remarkable longevity.

Border Collies Are A Hardy Breed

Border Collies are highly agile and driven working dogs who thrive on staying active. Because of their energetic nature, they require plenty of exercise, which contributes to their overall good health. The AKC advises routine hip and eye exams, along with regular ear checks to prevent infections.

With proper care, a Border Collie typically lives between 12 and 15 years. While they enjoy burning off energy, downtime is equally important to reveal their loving and affectionate nature.

Azawakhs Are Known For Healthy Lives

Azawakhs are often compared to larger Whippets, thanks to their sleek frames, elongated snouts, and visibly lean bodies. The American Kennel Club notes that their natural build emphasizes their bone structure, which can sometimes make them appear underweight to the untrained eye. That’s why it’s crucial for owners to consult with veterinarians or breed specialists to maintain the dog’s optimal health.

Although they stand tall, Azawakhs usually weigh just around 44 pounds. This light frame may contribute to their impressive average lifespan of about 15 years, making them one of the longer-living large breeds.

Poodles Have Low Risk For Disease

Poodles—whether standard, miniature, or toy—are known for their elegance and longevity. According to the American Kennel Club, they can live up to 18 years, especially when well cared for. Despite their size differences, all three varieties share a balanced, athletic build and a graceful, almost dancer-like physique that reflects their agility and intelligence.

As a breed, Poodles are typically healthy and resilient. However, like all dogs, they benefit from routine health screenings. Regular evaluations for hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye conditions are recommended to catch any issues early and ensure a long, healthy life.

Ibizan Hounds Have Lasted Centuries

Ibizan Hounds may give off a delicate, deer-like impression, but their roots trace back to Ancient Egypt, where they were bred for speed and agility to chase down rabbits. With their powerful legs and sleek frames, they’re natural athletes who thrive when they have room to run and play.

Despite their energetic nature, these hounds are surprisingly well-mannered and composed indoors. They flourish in spacious environments and enjoy an active lifestyle. According to the American Kennel Club, Ibizan Hounds are generally healthy and can live up to 14 years, although, like all breeds, they may be prone to certain health issues.

The Pharaoh Hound Is Free Of Disorders

With a regal name like Pharaoh Hound, it’s no surprise that this breed carries itself with elegance and poise. Known for their sleek build and incredible speed, these dogs are both graceful and affectionate. One of their most charming quirks is their ability to “blush”—their ears and noses turn a rosy hue when they’re excited or happy.

According to the chair of the Pharaoh Hound Club of America, this breed is notably free from major genetic disorders. Still, routine health screenings are encouraged to support their well-being and help them reach their full life expectancy of around 14 years.

Siberian Huskies Live Longer Than You May Think

Siberian Huskies may appear more muscular than they truly are due to their thick, luxurious coats, but they’re actually much smaller than their Alaskan Malamute relatives. Topping out around 60 pounds, these agile dogs can live up to 14 years.

Part of their impressive lifespan can be credited to the strict breeding standards enforced by the Siberian Husky Club of America, which emphasizes proper health screenings. The AKC also advises owners to work with veterinarians experienced with working breeds and to schedule both hip and eye evaluations to keep Huskies in top form.

Basenjis Are Typically Healthy Dogs

Basenjis might not be the most well-known breed, but that doesn’t make them any less remarkable. With their elegant demeanor and independent spirit, these quiet canines are famous for not barking at all. According to the AKC, modern testing can screen for inherited conditions like Fanconi syndrome and progressive retinal atrophy, reducing the likelihood of these issues in today’s Basenjis.

Thanks to responsible breeding practices and advanced screening, this breed tends to stay in good health. To support their well-being, it’s recommended that Basenjis receive evaluations for hips, thyroid function, and eye health—helping ensure 13 to 14 years of loyal companionship.

Australian Shepherds

Australian Shepherds are medium-sized stunners known for their strong work ethic and boundless energy. Driven by a desire to please, they thrive when given tasks and responsibilities. With a well-proportioned frame—neither overly muscular nor delicate—these dogs are both nimble and full of endurance.

According to the AKC, Aussies are typically healthy, though their ears should be checked often for wax buildup. Since they’re naturally active and love to stay on the move, regular hip and elbow evaluations are recommended to help ensure they remain comfortable and mobile throughout their 12 to 15-year lifespan.

English Foxhounds Have Healthy Lungs

English Foxhounds are more famous for their hunting skills than for being family pets. With dedication to training, these dogs have a strong, long frame and impressive lung capacity to support their endurance.

While they may not be as high-energy as some other breeds, they still need plenty of exercise to stay calm indoors and aren’t fond of being in tight spaces. Although they can be prone to certain health issues, they are generally healthy dogs, with an expected lifespan of up to 13 years.

Whippets Are Lean And Healthy

Whippets are very thin dogs by nature, and as such their weight needs to be watched carefully. Though they may look like they could afford to gain a pound or two, the AKC warns that a Whippet’s hipbones “should not appear sunk into dimples of fat.”

Additionally, you can expect to see 2-4 vertebrae, though they shouldn’t have protruding ribs in adulthood. Their weight constrictions have to do with their body’s thin frame, which can only support a lean build. So long as you maintain your Whippet’s physique, these non-barking dogs can be expected to live as much as 15 years.

Belgian Malinois

As with Alaskan Malamutes, Belgian Malinois are a large breed with a lifespan of up to 16 years! Like their German Shepherd doppelgängers, they bond deeply with their human companion, who they love to work alongside.

Their long and lean muscles support the Belgian Malinois’ high energy level, so it isn’t surprising it is recommended they have a hip and elbow evaluation. They need plenty of exercise for both their physical and mental wellbeing, at which point they are likely to live healthy lives.

German Pinschers

You may have noticed that the German Pinscher looks similar to a Doberman Pinscher. That’s because the German Pinscher is the progenitor of the well-known Doberman, obvious in its strong build and squarely face.

The sleek, muscular dogs are keenly intelligent and breeders have had centuries to refine their genes. Though they are prone to some diseases, they are generally very healthy and typically live to long as 14-years-old. It is recommended that the breed undergoes a hip and ophthalmologist evaluation and a cardiac exam.

The Brittany

Brittany Dogs, also sometimes called Brittany Spaniels, are bursting with energy and will entertain whatever physical activities you can give them. These athletic family dogs have few genetic health issues, according to the AKC.

It is recommended that breeders give Brittanys a hip and ophthalmologist evaluation, which is standard for most active dog breeds. Other than ear and teeth cleanings, these dogs are low maintenance so long as you can keep up with them. Their life expectancy is 12 to 14 years.

Dachshunds

Dachshunds stand at a mere 5-9 inches, depending on if they are standard or miniature. However, a standard can rack up as many as 32 pounds thanks to its long and stocky body. Their legs are so small that a couple of daily walks can provide the moderate exercise they need.

This modest exercise requirement is vital to ensure their muscles can support their thick back. For the same reason, a healthy diet and moderation is imperative so they don’t become overweight. Owners who stay on top of their health routine can expect to spend 16 years with these spunky pals.

Shih Tzus Don’t Need Much Activity To Live Long Lives

The Shih Tzu typically maxes out at 11 inches to the shoulder and 16 pounds and can become buried in their long locks. Not tremendously active, the Shih Tzu’s number one dog activity is looking cute. Daily walks and playing around with their owner is enough for these little pups.

Active owners will want to leave their Shih Tzu at home as they are not heat tolerant nor are they good swimmers. As long as you don’t push these pups to be more active than they are, you can expect to spend 18 years with these playful snuggle buddies.

Schnauzers Tend To Have Great Health

Schnauzers come in three sizes, but the standard size has a life expectancy of up to 16 years, as opposed to the 15-year expectancy of both the miniature and the giant. The medium-sized Schnauzers are also the only ones included in a survey performed every five years by the Standard Schnauzer Club of America.

Their findings have shown that the Standard Schnauzer is not plagued by the health concerns many other breeds experience. The AKC also reports that a new DNA test has helped breeders prevent cardiomyopathy in these dogs.

Shetland Sheepdogs Are In It For The Long Haul

Shetland Sheepdogs, fondly called Shelties, look strikingly similar to their Collie cousin. The 15-25 pound dogs are almost a miniature version of the Collie and have the same striking, long fur and obedient but intelligent nature.

Shelties are sensitive, bright watchdogs who enjoy staying active but only need moderate exercise. The American Shetland Sheepdog Association has set forth minimum health testing recommendations to help ensure that Shelties are bred to live long. Shelties are generally healthy and have a life expectancy of up to 14 years.

Canaan Dogs

Canaan Dogs, celebrated as one of the oldest dog breeds and Israel’s national dog, are naturally vigilant and attentive companions. Despite their watchful demeanor, they only need moderate exercise to keep fit and especially thrive during training sessions that engage their sharp minds.

The American Kennel Club highlights that Canaan breeders form a passionate and tight-knit community committed to preserving the breed’s qualities. Thanks to their careful breeding practices and the dog’s ancient lineage, Canaans tend to be quite healthy. Weighing around 45 pounds, these dogs often enjoy a lifespan reaching up to 15 years—impressive longevity for a breed of their size.

Pomeranians Can Live For Up To 16 Years

Pomeranians appear to have the body of a Chihuahua with a coat that’s as fluffy as a Sheltie’s. They grow to be about half a foot tall to the shoulder and no more than seven pounds. These little fluffballs can be easily mistaken for squirrels and rabbits.

That’s why keeping them protected from predatory birds is so imperative, especially since these tiny dogs can manage to squeeze under fences and get loose. Aside from the need to stay in your sight, Poms are typically healthy dogs who you can expect to live for up to 16 years.

Beagles Are Great Family Dogs

The AKC reports that Beagles have spent years as the most popular hound dog in America. Their sweet disposition yet energetic and sturdy build make them wonderful family dogs, and generally as healthy as they are happy.

As with other breeds, their genetic exposure to diseases relies on the breeder taking the necessary precautions. AKC recommends the typical hip and ophthalmologist evaluations along with a MLS DNA Test to ensure that your Beagle is on track to live a solid 15 years.

An Ear Infection Is The Worst Of It For A Bichon Frise

Bichons have a plush coat that makes them seem almost unreal. The AKC notes that they are generally healthy dogs. They typically need extra attention to their teeth and ears to prevent infection, but that’s about it.

They recommend putting your Bichon Frise through the same evaluations you would a poodle: hip, patella, and ophthalmologist. So long as you keep up to date with their hygiene and checkups and purchase from a responsible breeder, you can expect to enjoy your Bichon’s company for 14 to 15 years.

Australian Cattle Dogs Can Live For 16 Years

Australian Cattle Dogs need just as much mental exercise as they do physical. These intelligent dogs are bursting with energy and have enough intelligence to outsmart their owners, so keeping them challenged is a must.

This breed has more tests and evaluations recommended than other breeds we’ve seen, so it is all the more vital that their breeder is a careful one. At the same time, Australian Cattle Dogs can outlive some smaller dogs, having a life expectancy of up to 16 years!

Havanese Are Naturally Adaptable

Havanese are little fluffy balls of joy with adaptability and social skills. This extraverted breed can entertain a crowd with its comical behaviors and light-hearted attitude. They also take the position of watchdog very seriously, even if they are only 10 pounds.

Though Havanese are prone to multiple conditions, the Havanese Club of America encourages proper breeding by offering awards to those whose dogs can pass health tests. As a result, they generally have happy and long lives, usually between 14 and 16 years long.

Alaskan Malamute Can Live Long For A Large Dog

As we’ve mentioned before, larger dog breeds tend to have shorter life expectancies than smaller dogs, which is what makes the Alaskan Malamute so impressive. Though males often weigh as much as 85 pounds, healthy ones can live up to 14 years!

While they aren’t the most energetic dogs of all, they are built to work and have incredible endurance, so exercise is vital. They are prone to some diseases making it important that their breeder is responsible. If you notice their hearing has weakened don’t fret; it’s likely just some ear wax buildup.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis Are Packed With Strength

The AKC calls the Pembroke Welsh Corgi one of the most agreeable of the small house dogs. These strong dogs are small but compact, standing at only a foot tall at the shoulder and packing in about 30 pounds.

Their dense composition may help to explain their 12-13-year life expectancy, which falls a little shy of some of the other dogs on this list. Still, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are generally healthy dogs who only need to receive hip and ophthalmologist evaluations, as is common in many breeds.

Chihuahuas From A Responsible Breeder Can Live Long

It is generally noted that smaller dogs tend to live longer than large ones, and the Chihuahua is no exception. Weighing in at fewer than six pounds, these little pups generally live 14-16 years. The main concern with Chihuahuas is who their breeder was.

As with all breeds, a responsible breeder should screen for genetic issues, especially since Chihuahuas can be at risk for heart problems if not properly bred. A cardiac exam, along with an ophthalmologist and patella evaluation, should reveal all you need to know to keep your chihuahua well to the fullest extent.