Australian Cattle Dog
Life Span:12 to 16 years
Energy Level:High

Australian Cattle Dogs are also friendly and playful. This breed is well-known for its intelligence and high energy level. They love to go on adventures and are great family dogs. These dogs are also known for herding and great for people who live on a farm with other animals. If well cared for they can live about 13 years. An athletic and intelligent breed, the Australian cattle dog can make a great running or hiking buddy for active people. These dogs have an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years with few health issues associated with them, so this is one of the healthiest dog breeds. In fact, Bluey the Australian cattle dog was named oldest dog that ever lived. However, their active nature sometimes can result in joint or ligament issues due to wear and tear. But these problems often can be corrected with rest, medication, or surgery.





Beagle
Life Span:10 to 15 years
Energy Level:High

Known for their keen sense of smell and savvy hunting skills, the beagle is a moderately active, medium-sized dog with an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Beagles generally lead healthy lives. The health conditions associated with the breed, including eye and hip problems, usually occur in older dogs. Also, these dogs should have a controlled diet to prevent them from eating too much - as scent dogs, they are easily drawn to food. Beagles are friendly and great with kids, making them excellent family dogs. Beagles do love to bark and howl, so they will need to be trained to minimize that and they make great Emotional Support Animals.





Chihuahua
Life Span:12 to 20 years
Energy Level:High

Chihuahuas have a lot of spirit and intelligence for coming in such a small package. 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 health issues linked to the breed include heart and eye problems, along with patellar luxation (loose kneecaps). They are also prone to obesity and require exercise.





Greyhound
Life Span:10 to 18 years
Energy Level:Medium

The greyhound is one of the fastest dog breeds in the world, as well as one of the healthiest dog breeds, and they need exercise to get their adrenaline out. On average, these dogs live between 10 and 13 years. They are generally very healthy throughout their lives. However, like other dogs with deep chests, they are susceptible to bloat and gastric torsion - twisting of the stomach, especially if they eat too quickly. This can be life-threatening, so it is important to monitor their eating.





Poodle
Life Span:12 to 16 years
Energy Level:High

Poodles have a reputation of being prissy, but these coifed canines are anything but. Not only are poodles highly intelligent, but they are extremely athletic, too. In fact, poodles 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 be prone to joint and eye issues, whether they’re standard, miniature, or toy poodles.





Havanese
Life Span:14 to 16 years
Energy Level:Medium

Hailing from Havana, Cuba—and securing the spot as the only dog breed native to Cuba—the Havanese is a small, smart dog that is easy to train and extremely sociable. The typical Havanese has a lifespan of 14 to 16 years. These dogs are generally healthy, but some can be prone to hereditary deafness, as well as patellar luxation and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).





Siberian Husky
Life Span:12 to 14 years
Energy Level:High

Best known for sled-pulling strength and endurance, the Siberian husky is a powerful, athletic dog with boundless energy. They are ideal for those who like to take long daily walks, runs, or hikes. These dogs have a lifespan of 12 to 16 years, and they're usually very healthy. Some are prone to eye and hip issues, but breeders have worked to remove some of that genetic predisposition to help make this one of the healthiest dog breeds.





Basenji
Life Span:12 to 15 years
Energy Level:High

Basenjis are quite intelligent, athletic hunting dogs that have almost a cat-like nature. In fact, rather than barking, they make more of a yodeling sound, and they tend to groom like cats. These dogs have an average lifespan around 13 to 14 years, and they typically do not develop many serious health issues. But the breed is prone to hypothyroidism and hip problems. A DNA test for dogs can aid in providing you and your veterinarian with a wealth of information about your dog's breed and genetic makeup.








A D V E R T I S E M E N T










Alaskan Malamute
Life Span:10 to 14 years
Energy Level:High

Alaskan Malamutes are friendly and playful dogs. They prefer cold temperatures and are known to "talk." They love to climb and roam, which is why you will need to have a tall, strong enclosure to keep him safe. This breed is great with kids but does not do well with other animals. These dogs can live about 13 years if well taken care of.





Border Collie
Life Span:12 to 15 years
Energy Level:High

Border collies are highly intelligent, athletic, and driven dogs. They thrive when they have a job and are up to learning most tasks, especially ones that require lots of mental and physical energy. These dogs are hardy and healthy overall with an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, though some can be prone to deafness, collie eye anomaly, and epilepsy.





Australian Shepherd
Life Span:12 to 15 years
Energy Level:High

The Australian shepherd, also known as Aussie, is an intelligent, athletic herding dog that is perfect for active families who will be able to keep up with their high energy level. These dogs thrive when they’re able to work, and enjoy everything from dog sports to therapy work. Their average lifespan is 12 to 15 years, but the breed is prone to hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and cataracts.





German Shorthaired Pointer
Life Span:12 to 14 years
Energy Level:high

Also known as GSP, the German shorthaired pointer is an energetic, alert hunting dog. This is another breed that is best for active people, as these dogs need a lot of exercise. They have a high prey drive, so they are not suitable for households with other pets that might be viewed as prey. Like other breeds, they can be prone to a few genetic conditions, and they are prone to injuries because they are so active, but their lifespan is 12 to 14 years.





Old English Sheepdog
Life Span:10 to 13 years
Energy Level:Medium

If you are in search of a large and shaggy dog, the Old English sheepdog might be perfect. These are obedient and friendly dogs known for their bubbly personality. They are also affectionate, but they are high-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their average lifespan is 10 to 12 years, and they’re prone to some health problems like hip dysplasia, bloat, cataracts, and hypothyroidism.





Shiba Inu
Life Span:13 to 16 years
Energy Level:Medium

The fox-like Shiba Inu can be stubborn and strong-willed, but these dogs are also affectionate, attentive, and intelligent. They even groom themselves like cats do. Muscular and athletic, they need exercise daily. The breed is generally healthy, with just a few hereditary health concerns like hip dysplasia, luxating patella, and eye problems. This is another one of the healthiest dog breeds, as this dog's average lifespan is longer than other breeds at 13 to 16 years.





Chinese Crested
Life Span:13 to 18 years
Energy Level:Medium

The Chinese crested is a fun little dog and a great choice for anyone looking for a hairless canine. A tiny dog at 8 to 12 pounds, this breed is very affectionate and friendly. They also have a long average lifespan of 13 to 18 years, but they can be prone to eye problems, luxating patella, and epilepsy. There is a full-coated variety, but if you go with the hairless variety, it is important to take care of their skin.





Anatolian Shepherd
Life Span:11 to 18 years
Energy Level:Medium

The Anatolian shepherd is a good choice for anyone looking for a dog that will be protective and more independent than other breeds. They are very loyal and can be a lot of fun, but they are prone to barking loudly because of their watchful nature. With an average lifespan of 11 to 13 years, this breed is also one of the healthiest, as it isn’t prone to some of the health concerns that other breeds are susceptible to.





Bichon Frise
Life Span:14 to 15 years
Energy Level:High

The cute little bichon frise looks like a cotton ball and wants to be near you all the time. They make wonderful, loving companions, and can get along well with kids and other pets in the home. They also have a longer lifespan, averaging 14 to 15 years. And they are overall healthy, though they can be prone to a few conditions like luxating patella, hip dysplasia, and cataracts.





Belgian Malinois
Life Span:14 to 16 years
Energy Level:High

Intelligent, energetic, and athletic are words that describe the Belgian Malinois. These herding dogs can live an average of 14 to 16 years, and are good for families that are active and will be able to give their dog the exercise they need every day. Only a few hereditary problems are associated with this breed, such as eye problems and hip and elbow dysplasia, making this one of the healthiest dog breeds.





American Foxhound
Life Span:11 to 18 years
Energy Level:High

The American foxhound is dog that thrives when they are a part of a pack, so they aren’t the right choice if you are looking for a more independent breed. In fact, they can develop separation anxiety, so they shouldn’t be left alone for long periods of time. They can be prone to ear infections, hip dysplasia, and a blood platelet disorder known as thrombocytopathy, but their average lifespan is 11 to 13 years.





Dachshund
Life Span:12 to 16 years
Energy Level:Medium

The lovable dachshund is hard to resist with their adorably short legs. These devoted dogs are clever, playful, and sometimes stubborn. They are great family dogs, and are also a good choice if you are in search of a lapdog. Though they are prone to a few health problems that include intervertebral disc disease, epilepsy, and diabetes, they can live an average of 12 to 16 years.





German Pinscher
Life Span:12 to 14 years
Energy Level:High

The German pinscher is known for their energy and intelligence. They have so much energy that it is best to give them the chance to exercise for at least one to two hours every day. Hereditary health concerns for this breed include hip dysplasia, eye problems, heart disease, and von Willebrand disease, but this breed has an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years.





Miniature Schnauzer
Life Span:12 to 15 years
Energy Level:Medium

For pet parents in search of a hypoallergenic dog breed, the miniature schnauzer is an option. These friendly yet alert dogs make good watchdogs, but they can be quite vocal. They need daily exercise, and training and socialization from a young age are important. Also, this dog rarely sheds and is generally healthy, with an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, so it’s yet another good choice if you are looking for the healthiest dog breeds.





Whippet
Life Span:12 to 15 years
Energy Level:Medium

The whippet looks like a greyhound in a smaller body. These fast dogs are fairly easy to care for, as they are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming and they need a moderate amount of exercise. Plus, they have a great personality because they are gentle and affectionate. Their average lifespan is 12 to 15 years, and they are not prone to a lot of health problems.





Bergamasco
Life Span:13 to 15 years
Energy Level:Medium

Bergamasco is a dread-locked breed that is very popular among dog shows. They are great with kids and are one of the healthiest dog breeds. Unfortunately, their popularity has led to many inbreeding by unethical breeders. Bergamascos from a proper breeder can live about 14 years if well taken care of.





English Foxhound
Life Span:10 to 13 years
Energy Level:High

English Foxhounds are friendly and playful. They are perfect family dogs because they are great with kids and pets. Like most hound breeds, these dogs love exploring and following their nose. That is why it is important to keep your Foxhound secure and consider microchipping them to ensure if they get lost they can be found and brought home. With proper exercise and being well cared for, English Foxhounds can live up to about 13 years.





English Springer Spaniel
Life Span:12 to 14 years
Energy Level:Medium

The average English Springer Spaniel lifespan is 12–14 years, which is normal for a medium-size dog. According to the ESSFTA, these spaniels lead healthy, happy lives and retain their vigor into old age. Genetic-based disorders are not uncommon, however. English Springer Spaniel is a loving and energetic breed. They love being with their humans and do not make great guard dogs because they just want to play all the time. These dogs are very obedient and easy to train. They can live up to about 15 years of age. They love playing fetch and swimming, so an active family is the best option for them.





Azawakh
Life Span:10 to 12 years
Energy Level:High

The Azawakh is an active breed, requiring daily exercise to keep both mind and body healthy. Adult Azawakhs can make great running companions. Failing that, a daily half-hour play session in a well-fenced field, park, or yard will keep the hound happy and healthy. Azawakhs are very calm dogs and rarely bark. They do not like cats and do not do well with rowdy kids, but they are affectionate with their humans. They want to spend as much time with their humans as possible, which is why they make better indoor dogs. They are healthy dogs and can live to be about 11 years old.





Labrador Retriever
Life Span:10 to 12 years
Energy Level:High

Labradors are some of the friendliest dogs you will ever meet. These dogs are highly intelligent and love to please, which is why they are so easy to train. They love playtime and are great with kids and other pets. These dogs continue to be playful up until they are old and can live up to about 13 years.





Pharaoh Hound
Life Span:11 to 14 years
Energy Level:Medium

Pharaoh Hounds are not as well-recognized as some of the other breeds, but they have been around for a long time and they are one of the healthiest dog breeds around. So long, in fact, that they were first domesticated by the Egyptians. These dogs do well in cold and warm climates, although they prefer the ladder. They are very intelligent, but they are also independent and strong-willed, making them a bit harder to train. Pharaoh Hounds are very healthy dogs and can live up to about 13 years of age.





Brittany Spaniel
Life Span:12 to 15 years
Energy Level:High

Brittany Spaniels are excellent with kids and pets, making them great family dogs. They are an intelligent breed that is easy to train and loves to play. They are very energetic and need more than just a walk around the block to remain mentally and physically healthy. With proper diet and exercise, Brittany Spaniels can live up to 12 years.





Canaan Dog
Life Span:12 to 15 years
Energy Level:Medium

Canaan Dogs are territorial, which is why they make excellent watchdogs. While they are very affectionate to their humans, they absolutely do not like strangers. These dogs are calm, but they don’t do well with young children or other pets. Canaan Dogs are a healthy breed and can live up to about 13 years.





Ibizan Hound
Life Span:12 to 15 years
Energy Level:High

Ibizan Hounds are great with children and make fantastic family pets. This racing breed has a lot of energy and loves to run around and jump, which is why you will need to have an enclosure that they won't be able to escape. They are well-known escape artists! They have short fur and barely shed. These dogs can live happily in hot weather, not so much in cold weather. Ibizan Hounds can live up to about 12 years of age.





Shih Tzu
Life Span:10 to 18 years
Energy Level:Low

Its long mane disguises 16 pounds of strength underneath it. Well known for its affection toward children, the Shih Tzu can live 18 happy years.





Manchester Terrier
Life Span:14 to 16 years
Energy Level:High

The Manchester Terrier is equals parts goofy and clever. This breed loves companionship, bonding with owners doing sports. Both varieties (standard and toy) have a lifespan of 15 years.





Airedale Terrier
Life Span:10 to 12 years
Energy Level:High

Also known as the Bingley Terrier, the King of Terriers or the Waterside Terrier, the Airedale Terrier is a breed that was first bred in the West Riding of Yorkshire. It's a dog a relatively low number of health concerns, with cancer being the leading cause of death.





American Water Spaniel
Life Span:13 to 15 years
Energy Level:Medium

The American Water Spaniel is a working breed from the Great Lakes area. These dogs loves to swim and play in the water. They can live 12 to 15 years with nutritious food and plenty of exercise. However, some pups from this breed may be prone to issues like hip dysplasia, eye disorders, and heart conditions.





Cairn Terrier
Life Span:10 to 12 years
Energy Level:Moderate

Cairn Terriers, which you might recognize as the iconic pup Toto from The Wizard of Oz, are spirited and hearty dogs. Some may be likely to develop health concerns like allergies, epilepsy, and heart defects, among others. However, most Cairn Terriers live 13 to 16 years, giving you plenty of time for adventures together.





Mixed Breed
Life Span:12 to 16 years
Energy Level:High

Mixed breeds are often considered healthier because they have a wider range of genes, which helps protect them from some inherited health problems. The health of each individual mixed-breed dog depends on their specific genetic makeup. But some older research suggests that mixed-breed dogs are less likely to inherit ten different genetic health conditions, such as atopic dermatitis and cataracts, when compared to purebred dogs. That said, experts found no difference between mixed breeds and purebreds for 13 other health conditions, including hip dysplasia and cancer.

In the past, it was generally accepted that purebred dogs were significantly more likely to suffer from genetic disorders than mixed-breeds. Recently, however, science has begun to change its tune, thanks to research comparing the health and longevity of purebreds to mixed-breed dogs—research which on the whole found that while some purebreds are more likely to suffer from some genetic disorders, the overall differences in health outcomes fall beneath the level of statical significance. One surprising fact that emerged is that mixed breeds don’t necessarily have fewer inherited disorders. Among 24 genetic disorders studied, while 10 were found more frequently among purebred dogs, 13 showed up almost equally within purebreds and mixed-breeds.

In 2020, the first major lifespan study of dogs seen in U.S. private veterinary practices showed similar results, finding little difference in lifespan between purebred and mixed-breed dogs. This research did reveal, however, that dog breeds with more genetic diversity lived longer than breeds with less. Current studies bear this out, finding that purebred dogs have no greater frequency of owner-reported medical conditions during their lifetimes than mixed-breed dogs. These and other studies consistently show that while different breeds may be susceptible to breed-specific diseases, one breed is not intrinsically "healthier" than another.

As for so-called "designer dogs" - mixes such as the Labradoodle, Goldendoodle, and Cockapoo—the few rigorous studies that have been done tend to dispel the myth that these mixes exhibit greater "hybrid vigor" than their progenitor breeds. Almost 90 percent of the health comparisons showed no significant differences between the designer and purebred dogs. Further, the same types of genetic disorders that affect purebreds can impact designer dogs as well: because of the limited number of these mixes, breeders may mate relatively closely related dogs to expand the "breed." Whenever two relatives mate, the chances are significantly greater that the offspring will inherit two copies of a recessive gene that leads to genetic abnormalities.