The Healthiest Large Dog Breeds That You Can Get
Like humans, dogs may be genetically predisposed to particular medical issues. However, certain dog breeds usually have healthy lives and don’t have many major health problems.
Genetics contribute significantly to the life span of the dog as well as the type of health issue the dog may have to deal with.
With all that said, before blindly choosing a dog breed, you may start with research based on the healthiest dog breed. So, to help you with this, we have listed the top 10 healthiest large dog breeds, explaining their nature and health problems.
10 Healthiest Large Dog Breeds That You Can Choose From
Before bringing the healthiest large dog breed to your home, you may want to know a few on the list. Read on further as we briefly describe each of the ten healthiest large dog breeds.
1. Greyhound
The Greyhound is distinguished by its strong long legs, streamlined physique, and short, silky hair. The dog’s deep chest, long neck, and small head can also identify the breed. The Greyhound is the world’s quickest breed because of these physical qualities.
Despite being huge dogs, Greyhounds can make good companions for many types of people, and many of them get along well with kids. They may prefer not to be left alone since they are very attached to their relatives. Due to their sensitivity, greyhounds demand consideration and tolerance.
When training your Greyhound, remember that while they can withstand high temperatures, they will become chilly in low temperatures due to lack of body fat; thus, always carry a dog sweater.
Common Diseases And Life Span
Gastric Dilatation, Osteosarcoma, and Hip dysplasia are a few health issues typical to the breed. These active puppies have a 10- to 14-year lifespan on average.
2. Standard Poodle
Standard poodles are elegant and remarkable athletes that are proud, intelligent, energetic, and gorgeous canines. Contrary to popular belief, these dogs are incredibly robust, adaptable, and excellent family pets overall.
They are regarded as “standard” poodles since toy and miniature poodles share the same breed features but are smaller. Standard poodles are wonderful, flexible canines, even for first-time pet owners.
They don’t shed a lot and are quite amiable. Although these very clever dogs are simple to teach, they require a lot of exercise and care to maintain their physical and mental health. A standard poodle should also be highly lively and perform agility and obedience tests well.
Common Diseases And Life Span
Gastric Dilatation, premature graying, and Cushing’s disease are a few health issues typical to the breed. These active puppies have a 10- to 15-year lifespan on average.
3. German Shorthaired Pointer
Despite being a large dog, the German Shorthaired Pointer is one of the smallest breeds on our list, weighing between 45 and 70 pounds. Although it was developed as a hunting breed, this breed is also a dependable and devoted friend.
German Shorthaired Pointers require lots of physical activity to burn off their excess energy. Because they are clever, they also need ample mental stimulation, and they can be disruptive when they aren’t pushed or exercised enough. Still, German Shorthaired Pointers typically behave themselves if you keep them busy and interested.
This dog adores being outside. German Shorthaired Pointers can be a bit energetic, so they get along well with children, toddlers, and young children. They enjoy being around people and become depressed if left at home alone for an extended period.
Common Diseases And Life Span
Hip dysplasia, some cancers, bloat, and a blood clotting ailment called Von Willebrand’s Disease are a few health issues typical to the breed. These active puppies have a 12- to 14-year lifespan on average.
4. Siberian Husky
The Siberian husky is a sleek, athletic dog with excellent endurance and a willingness to work. The temperament of this friendly dog breed is energetic and cheeky.
If given the proper care, Huskies may be friendly and kind even though they are active and occasionally aggressive canines. This breed is ideal if you have lots of time with your dog. The Siberian husky may be a fantastic companion if given the proper care and consideration.
Running is beneficial for huskies if the weather isn’t too warm. As the husky breed is only somewhat heat-tolerant, you might need to devise inventive indoor workout routines for it while it’s hot outside.
Common Diseases And Life Span
Hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and progressive retinal atrophy are a few health issues typical to the breed. This dog breed has a 12- to 15-year lifespan on average.
5. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are the smallest and most intellectual dogs on the list, with strong, elegant bodies and innate herding skills. Their initial purpose in breeding was to make working dogs.
When fully grown, Australian shepherds stand 18 to 24 inches tall and weigh 40 to 65 pounds, with males often bigger than females.
Australian Shepherds are energetic canines who like working. They are well-known for being loyal, intelligent dogs that can take their time warming up to strangers while generally being amiable.
Common Diseases And Life Span
A 13- to 15-year life expectancy makes Australian Shepherds one of the largest dog breeds with the best overall health. However, they are susceptible to a few health conditions that affect the breed, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, iris coloboma, and lymphosarcoma.
6. Labrador Retriever
The most well-known breed of dog is the Labrador Retriever. They are a large breed of dog that typically weighs between 55 and 80 pounds and were developed for physically demanding jobs. When they don’t receive enough exercise, Labs become destructive, like most energetic dogs.
Given its intelligence, this breed is relatively simple to teach. Obedience lessons are often incredible because they’re enthusiastic, especially for younger ones.
Given how much they like eating, Labradors must maintain a normal weight to be healthy. They will consume almost everything, even trash, and non-food items. Don’t overfeed them, and remember that getting enough exercise is crucial.
Common Diseases And Life Span
The Labrador has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. Being the healthiest dog breed, they are susceptible to a few diseases, including hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, cataracts, epilepsy, heart abnormalities, and joint problems.
7. Doberman
The medium-large-sized, deep-chested Doberman pinscher is a sturdy-looking breed of dog. Dobermans are courageous, devoted, and exceptionally smart. They are excellent security, police, and military dogs, but they also make excellent friends.
Doberman pinschers who have received proper training frequently perform well with kids and other social settings, making them excellent therapy dogs. The temperament of the breed is typically described as gentle and protective.
Doberman Pinschers are a loving, intelligent breed that adapts well to various living settings, despite their menacing look.
Dobermans are an excellent choice for families or owners who live on prominent areas of property because they are energetic, devoted, and great security dogs.
Common Diseases And Life Span
The Doberman has a life expectancy of 10 to 13 years. Being among the healthiest dog breeds, they are susceptible to a few diseases, including Dilated cardiomyopathy, wobbler syndrome, and gastric dilatation-volvulus.
8. Alaskan Malamute
Consider an Alaskan Malamute if you’re an experienced dog owner seeking to add a big new dog to the household. Managing their unusual combination of intellect and tenacity will be difficult if you don’t have any prior dog training expertise.
Malamutes want to be in command, and they’ll want to take over your home. Everyone in the family should be prepared to prove that the dog is not the pack leader to stop the dog from trying to boss the family.
They may learn to get along with other animals and indoor pets with training and early socialization. Malamutes are energetic dogs who need daily exercise, but the effort is worthwhile. These pack animals are incredibly caring and devoted to their families, creating strong bonds.
Common Diseases And Life Span
Although this breed is typically healthy, there are several conditions they are more likely to acquire, including cataracts, dwarfism, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and day blindness. This large dog lives 10 to 12 years on average.
9. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd can be an excellent fit if you’re searching for a big, robust breed that’s highly athletic and fiercely clever. They often weigh 75 to 95 pounds. One thing to bear in mind with this breed is that they require constant mental and physical stimulation.
German Shepherds develop close relationships with their families and dislike spending much time alone. They can become restless and worried, frequently leading to disruptive behavior like excessive chewing, digging, or barking.
Because of their natural tendency to be wary of strangers, this giant dog breed makes excellent watchdogs, but it’s also crucial to socialize them from a young age. Ensure that your young German Shepherd becomes accustomed to being around unfamiliar people and environments.
Common Diseases And Life Span
This breed usually is in good condition and lasts 9 to 13 years. They frequently suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and a spinal cord disorder called degenerative myelopathy that impairs communication between the brain and the rear legs.
10. Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a large and strong dog. It is well-known for its strong body built and self-assured, dedicated attitude. This breed is protective and loyal to its family and also safeguards close family members. However, once it is relaxed, it can be loving and playful. Despite what some may believe, not all Rottweilers are dangerous and aggressive dogs.
However, they could be wary of outsiders because of their protective nature. The Rottweiler makes an excellent security dog, watchdog, or working dog.
Common Diseases And Life Span
Although this breed is typically healthy, there are several conditions they are more likely to acquire, including hip dysplasia, osteochondrosis, and entropion. This large dog lives 8 to 10 years on average.
Choosing The Healthiest Large Dog Breed?
It is challenging and fun to choose an ideal dog that suits your lifestyle as it is a huge responsibility to look after for the rest of its life.
What kind of dog should I get? This is just one of your many thoughts when choosing a new dog. Which dog breed is best for me? Will he fit in well with my family?
Before buying a dog, you must ensure that you are responsible, can share your space, and spend a life together with another companion. Consider all the pros and cons before making any decision.
Along with that, you may also consider the region you are in, and you may opt for a breed that suits the climate conditions of your area. Also, you may want a specialized vet for that breed to take care of all the health issues that can occur with your dog.
Keeping Your Dog Healthy
It makes sense that you’d want to give your dog the best care possible so he can stay by your side for a long time. Get preventative veterinary care, learn how to maintain a healthy diet of high-quality food, and try your best to provide a safe, loving environment for your pet.
Summing It All
The dogs on the list above generally have good health overall, with low-risk factors for genetic disease. Frequent visits to the vet can greatly minimize all the health problems, as mentioned earlier, a specific breed can have.