Deciding on what type of dog to get — or rather, having a dog choose you when you go to adopt a dog at your local animal shelter — is a big deal. You’re welcoming a new member of your family into your life when you adopt or purchase a dog, and naturally, you’re going to want to spend as much time with them as possible.
Though dogs usually don’t live as long as their feline counterparts, there are a number of breeds, mixed breeds, and smaller dogs who are known for their relatively minimal health complications. If you’re currently searching for a dog that’s likely going to live a long, lasting, healthy life with few complications and very little pain (even into old age), then you’re in the right place.
Rescue & Foster Discounts From Our Veterinary Clinic
Before we dive in, our local animal hospital in Gaithersburg encourages you to adopt, rather than “shop,” whenever possible. Remember that there are millions of dogs up for adoption every single year — the ASPCA estimates that about 1.6 million dogs and 1.6 million cats are adopted each year. Become one of these owners! Goshen Animal Clinic even offers a rescue and foster discount for our veterinary services, so adopting is a win/win no matter how you look at it.
Keep reading below to learn more about several healthy dog breeds to keep in mind before you welcome a new member of your family home. Let’s get started!
#1: Australian Cattle Dog
It’s well understood that Aussie Cattle Dogs are among the healthiest working breeds ever conceived. While the hard, scientific data to prove this still remains limited at best, the consensus among the greater veterinary community is that working dog breeds usually tend to have the fewest health problems.
With plenty of daily activity to utilize their problem-solving skills, Australian Cattle Dogs will likely live at least 10 to 13 years.
#2: Foxhound
These fox hunters are another breed that proves working dog breeds don’t usually experience the same health complications that show dogs deal with. Many vets agree that dogs bred with function in mind, as opposed to simply looking good, naturally weed out the bad genetics that carry debilitating injuries or illnesses.
Foxhounds are a great choice for folks living in rural areas or on a relatively large plot of land. You can expect a happy, healthy lifespan of roughly 11 to 13 years with the average Foxhound.
#3: German Shorthaired Pointer
Another purpose-built breed, the German Shorthaired Pointer is extremely intelligent, energetic, short-haired (as the breed name might imply!), and generally experiences few premature health complications. Though these Pointers aren’t immune to health issues such as hypothyroidism, gastric torsion, and hip dysplasia, a well-exercised and well-fed Pointer is likely to circumvent these complications until they naturally arise as a result of old age. Pointers usually live between 12 to 14 years.
Regardless of whichever breed you’re considering purchasing or adopting, know that daily exercising and ample mental stimulation are essential to living a long, healthy, and fulfilling life for your pup — not unlike for humans!
#4: Chihuahua
Though Chihuahuas are far from what you’d consider being a “hunting breed,” one of the world’s smallest dog breeds is also one of the healthiest. This is true for many small dog breeds, but it certainly doesn’t hurt that Chihuahuas are also very loyal and intelligent.
Chihuahuas typically average a very impressive lifespan of around 14 to 18 years, outliving practically any other dog breed out there. They’re also great for sedentary individuals because Chihuahuas require very little exercise beyond a short walk.
#5: Australian Shepherd
While an Aussie Shepherd requires a lot more attention and exercise than a Chihuahua, they tend to live long, healthy lives generally spanning about 12 to 15 years. Health complications typically surface into old age, and if your Aussie has proper space to roam around and exercise, they’re more likely to ward off these health complications longer.
Visit Our Local Animal Hospital In Gaithersburg For Unparalleled Care!
Cat or dog, Golden Retriever or Chihuahua, know that Goshen Animal Clinic is ready to help you — and your valued pet — live your best lives. To learn more about our veterinarians in Gaithersburg, contact us today or feel free to schedule an appointment.
