Dog owners just finding out ‘healthiest’ breeds with lowest vet bills

A vet has unveiled a list of five dog breeds he believes to be the “healthiest” options for owners as, in his experience, they lead to the “lowest vet bills.” It’s no surprise that many people are eager to welcome a dog into their households, with an estimated 10.6 million pet dogs in the UK per PDSA figures.

Choosing to get a dog involves much more than affection; they require a lot of effort and commitment. Dogs need continuous exercise, mental stimulation and care, including regular visits to the vets which can accumulate substantial bills.

Prospective dog owners often turn to social media seeking advice from seasoned pet owners and insights from dog professionals to find the breed that most complements their lifestyle and wishes.

Popular social media platform TikTok plays host to a range of novices and experts alike. Veterinarian Dr Amir Anwary has attracted a large following by sharing expert tips, personal anecdotes, and animal care guidance, as well as trending, light-hearted dance videos offering funny takes on his veterinary encounters.

In one of his latest videos, Dr Anwary presented a video ranking the “top five healthiest dog breeds” that typically result in the “lowest vet bills” based on his professional experience.

Beagle

Claiming the fifth spot is the beagle. Dr Anwary said: “Number five is the beagle. So, this breed was originally bred as hunting dogs. They have an extremely strong, robust immune system.

“Very few genetic issues – the main problem you’re going to have to deal with here is obesity because they love eating everything, and a few ear infections. Otherwise, they’re really healthy.”

The PDSA warns overweight or obese dogs are at a higher risk of suffering from a host of health issues.

These can range from arthritis, diabetes, back problems such as slipped disks, Cushing’s disease, urinary incontinence, injuries, certain cancers, to a shortened lifespan and many other complications.

Australian shepherd

In fourth place is the Australian shepherd. The vet shared: “Number four is an Australian shepherd.”

“So, this breed is very high energy, very beautiful and the working lines have a very strong genetic base with very few genetic abnormalities.”

He added: “If a dog does happen to have certain genetic abnormalities, they will usually not allow them to breed meaning that they won’t propagate those diseases which is why this breed is actually so healthy.”

Chihuahua

The vet laughingly declared the chihuahua the third healthiest dog breed, something he expected would be a “shock” to viewers.

Famous for their tiny stature, this breed is one of the smallest globally and is characterised by their spirited, bold, and loyal temperament.

Dr Anwary noted: “This breed can live up to 20 years.”

“They are very, very healthy and because they’re so small, this often puts so little pressure on their joints that their joints survive for very, very long.”

The expert elaborated: “Now, they can suffer from dental disease and luxating patellas (where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position in the knee joint) but compared to your other toy breeds, this is definitely one of the healthiest.”

Australian cattle dog

The vet ranked the Australian cattle dog in second place, praising it as an “active” and highly “intelligent” working dog. He also highlighted their “strong and robust immune system”.

He warned: “They can suffer from certain genetic conditions but this is minimised through really, really good breeding.”

Dr Anwary added: “The oldest dog to ever have lived is actually a 29-year-old Australian cattle dog.”

Basenji

In the coveted top spot sits the basenji, lauded by the vet for their athleticism, intelligence, and curiosity – traits the small hunting dog is known and loved for. The basenji’s ability to run up to 30-35 miles per hour further impresses.

Dr Anwary explained: “Many people do not know about this dog breed; it is an ancient African hunting dog and it doesn’t actually bark, it yodels.”

He attributed the basenji’s robust health to its heritage and continued: “The reason it’s so healthy is because it’s an ancient, pure-bred dog that has been minimally inbred so if you’re looking for a dog that doesn’t bark and that’s pretty healthy, basenji’s definitely for you.”

Do bear in mind that the opinions expressed by veterinary experts on social media reflect their own experiences and are thus inherently generalisations.

If you have any concerns about any of your pets, visit your vet for a thorough assessment and tailored treatment plan.