Dogs offer huge benefits to their owners’ well-being: they can help lower the risk of heart disease by promoting activity, reduce stress, boost mood and even strengthen an infant’s immune system, according to WebMD.
But saying “yes” to bringing a dog into your home means more than improving your own health — you’re also committing to making sound health choices for that dog for the duration of its life.
Pets.WebMD.com is a helpful place to learn about the ailments dogs may face, and one piece outlines the most frequent issues: ear infections, intestinal parasites, fleas, hot spots, vomiting and diarrhea. While these are milder than severe conditions like fractures, cancer or arthritis, they still carry costs.
A routine visit to my veterinarian here in Nashville, Tennessee, costs over $50 just to be seen, with extra fees for diagnostics and treatment — and that’s before factoring in preventive products like flea topical solutions and heartworm tablets. Because my dogs spend a good amount of time being treated or checked by the vet, I’m a strong proponent of pet insurance.
Clearly, veterinary bills for a dog can add up. In fact, medical expenses rank among the biggest financial responsibilities of dog ownership. Before you adopt, think beyond adoption or rescue fees and consider future medical expenses. Will you be able to provide the care your dog may require?
Of course, you can proactively help keep your dog healthy by feeding a balanced diet with a reputable food, ensuring regular exercise, socialization and play, and staying on top of vet checkups, vaccinations and medications.
To further curb healthcare costs, you might consider a breed that typically experiences fewer medical issues over its lifespan. Remember, though, there are no guarantees.
Below are several dog types known for tending to have lower medical expenses across their lives.
Mixed Breeds (Mutts)
Many breeders will claim mixed breeds are unpredictable because you can’t always foresee temperament and health issues. Veterinarians and other specialists, however, tend to argue that mutts, benefiting from less inbreeding, are less likely to inherit genetic ailments and often enjoy longer lifespans.
Border Collies
Experts widely acknowledge Border collies as having relatively few health complaints compared with other breeds, but they are highly intelligent dogs that need mentally sharp owners who will provide stimulation. While you might save on medical care, be prepared to invest significant time in training and keeping a Border collie engaged and physically active.
Australian Cattle Dogs
The world’s oldest recorded dog was Bluey, an Australian cattle dog, who reached 29 years (1910–1939). Unofficially, Maggie, an Australian Kelpie, reportedly reached 30 last year, but due to paperwork problems, Bluey remains the official record holder.
Dogsaholic.com reports that Australian cattle dogs seldom develop serious conditions, which likely contributed to Bluey’s long life. The three more commonly noted issues are progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia and deafness.
Australian Shepherds
Australian shepherds rank among the healthiest and most energetic dogs available for adoption. (What can I say? Aussies tend to breed sturdy dogs.) The principal health concerns with these industrious animals include hip dysplasia, ocular diseases, drug sensitivity and epilepsy, VetStreet.com notes.
English Springer Spaniels
English springer spaniels are playful companions with relatively few inherited ailments. Most canines of this breed pass through life without major problems, though eye disorders are commonly their top issue.
Beagles
Beagles can experience typical ailments such as hypothyroidism and hip dysplasia, but the biggest challenge tends to be weight gain, which an attentive owner can manage. With proper portion control and exercise, beagles often enjoy long, relatively healthy lives.
German Shorthaired Pointers
PetMD.com includes the German shorthaired pointer among the world’s healthier breeds but cautions they may still be affected by issues like gastric torsion, hip dysplasia and hypothyroidism. Like many active breeds here, German shorthaired pointers need ample attention, exercise and mental engagement to thrive.
Poodles
Although often seen as fancy and fluffy, poodles are just as playful and energetic as many of the other dogs on this roster. Generally healthy, two noted conditions for poodles are Addison’s disease and Cushing’s syndrome.
Greyhounds
One of my dogs, Greyson, is a curious cross between a greyhound and a Weimaraner, and he’s the most gentle companion I’ve had. Calm and devoted, Greyson typifies many greyhounds who, despite loving to run, would gladly lounge indoors all day. VetStreet.com describes greyhounds as “generally healthy” but warns of conditions such as gastric torsion, heart murmurs and hip dysplasia.
Bichon Frises
Among small breeds, Bichon Frises rank as some of the healthier options, though they may be susceptible to allergies. Keep in mind Bichons can display small dog syndrome, so it’s essential to invest time in training your Bichon Frise from the moment you bring them home from the shelter.
One last note: a breed appearing on this list doesn’t guarantee an individual dog will remain free of health problems. My own greyhound mix, for instance, might be expected to have a relatively uncomplicated life; instead, he’s developed several minor and major issues.
Always ask yourself whether you can afford a dog before rescuing, keeping potential medical expenses in mind. As a devoted dog parent, though, I can assure you the emotional return makes it a worthwhile commitment.
If asked what his top role is, Marcus Lane would probably answer, “Dog dad.” When he’s not tending to his dogs or hiking with his partner, Marcus is often writing, reading, editing or enjoying a craft beer with friends.
