One of our top priorities regarding our dogs is their health. The unfortunate fact is, despite our best efforts, some conditions and diseases are simply hereditary. When buying a purebred, finding a responsible breeder that tests their dogs for the presence of genetic health problems can certainly eliminate a lot of the guesswork. But if you’d like to rescue–which is a great thing to do!–there is no way to know who the pup’s parents or siblings are.

Luckily, there are a good number of breeds that are less prone to devastating genetic conditions. And while it’s certainly not a guarantee that your dog will live to a healthy, ripe old age (which is always the goal!), purebred lovers might have the best luck with the following generally-healthy breeds.

#1 – English Springer Spaniels

English Springer Spaniels are believed to be rarely affected by hereditary diseases, although when they do have problems they tend to be eye related.





#2 – Shiba Inus

These foxy little pups have remained predisposed to a healthy life. They may be small, but they’re certainly tough.







#3 – Poodles

Poodles of all sizes share the same knack for staying healthy. Despite their overwhelming popularity, a well-bred Poodle is typically very hardy.



#4 – Greyhounds

Major health problems in the Greyhound are rare, making these gentle creatures even more beautiful than they first appear!







#5 – Border Collies

Another incredible working dog, the Border Collie has also evaded many of the most common problems in popular breeds today.







#6 – Bichon Frise

Although Bichons may be prone to allergies, they rank as one of the healthiest small breeds around.





#7 – Belgian Malinois

It’s no surprise that the Belgian Malinois, arguably the most versatile working dog in the world, has an impeccable health record. Bred almost entirely for performance, these dogs lack the usual ailments found in most other working breeds.







#8 – Beagles

No breed is immune to health problems, but Beagles stay fairly lucky in regards to the most common issues.



#9 – Basenjis

Basenjis may not be able to bark (a normal breed characteristic), but there are little to no ailments holding these adventurous dogs back.

#10 – Australian Cattle Dogs

The ACD holds the world record for the longest living dog, with a pup named Bluey. With their few health problems, it’s no wonder that Bluey lived to be 29-years-old!

