Choosing the right breed and keeping them healthy...
Once the decision is made to welcome a new furry companion in to your home, the next step is choosing the right breed. Knowing all the facts about dog health, pet insurance and how to best take care of this new member of your family is essential. This blog with talk you though the top 10 healthiest dog breeds globally. Concluding with a few dog treats and supplements which promote healthy joint care for dogs.
No two dogs are alike. Each one is unique in size, personality, and health. Although it's not definitive, certain breeds are known to have longer lifespans than others. These dogs may be the healthiest because of their endless energy and, in some cases, a small frame.
Top 10 dogs with the least health problems globally:
1) Australian Cattle Dog
Bred to help ranchers keep herds in check, Australian Cattle Dogs are born to be outdoors with lots of exercise contributing to their long health. The Guinness Book of World Records named Bluey an Australian Cattle Dog as holding the Guinness World Record for being the oldest dog. Bluey passed away at 29 years old.
2) Australian Shepherd Dog
By their name you would expect this dog to originate in Australia, right? Well in fact they originated in the western united states in the time of the gold rush and are often associated with historical ties to the Wild West. Australian Shepherds, also nicknamed Aussie, thrive on being put to work and are happiest when they have a job to do. Their active lifestyle ensures a long, happy life and make then wonderful family companies. Living anywhere from 12 to 15 years.
3) Basenjis
A Basenjis is a pure breed dog originally from Africa. This breed was found in the Congo, using both scent and sight to flush out small game into hunter nets, along with keeping rodent populations at bay. An interesting fact about the Basenjis is that they love licking their fur clean like cats, and unlike most dogs they don’t bark. Instead they express themselves with a yodel.
4) Beagle
The Beagle is an active companion and best described as a compact, hardy, and mighty dog. Being a hound, you’ll often find their nose to the ground, hunting out that interesting sent. This characteristic can also make them stubborn however, with patient and creative training techniques required. Living between 10-15 years, beagles make loyal companions.
5) Belgian Malinois
Did you know dogs could skydive? The Belgian Malinois is one of the most loyal, hardworking dogs there is and for this reason it is often favoured over the German Shepard by the US police and military. These dogs served in World War I, acting as messengers and assistants to the Red Cross. Now the US military parachutists do tandem jumps with their Malinois and can even train them to jump on their own, landing safely in water. Now that is one pretty impressive dog!
Check out this hero war dog, skydiving with his soldier > https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg198ixDfw4
6) Bichon Frise
With its white coat and jet-black eyes, the Bichon Frise is a cheerful little dog breed that enthuses happiness. The Bichon also benefits from a hypoallergenic coat, making them and ideal companion. They love spending time with their owners and enjoy making new friends.
Searching for Bichon Frise gifts? Take a look at our gifts for small dogs section.
7) Border Collie
Originated in the hilly border country between England and Scotland, the Collie was bred to control sheep. Interestingly, they do this using their intense stair which controls the flock. Collies have a need to move, ultimate energy, and a working drive. All this exercise keeps the Border Collie young at heart, well into old age with an average lifespan of around 12 years. Looking for a dog to train in canine sports? The Collie excels in flyball, tracking and flying disk competitions.
8) Chihuahua
A small dog with a big personality. Chihuahua’s are fans of short walks and lots of cuddles in a warm lap. They may be known as the smallest breed in the world, but they are also among the top 10 watchdogs, recommended by experts! Living as long as 18 years, these are perfect family dogs which require a minimum amount of grooming and exercise.
Searching for Chihuahua gifts? Take a look our gifts for small dogs section.
9) Dachshund
Another hound breed, the Dachund may also be known by other names such as Sausage Dog, Wiener or Doxie. Don’t let it's size fool you! The Dashunds tough enough to take on a badger, in fact that’s where it got it’s name (Dachs meaning badger, hund meaning dog). The Dashunds versatility makes them excellent companions, show dogs and small game hunters. Good daily exercise could help them stay healthy until their 20th birthday.
Searching for Dachshund gifts / Sausage dog gifts? Take a look at our gifts for small dogs section.
10) German Pinscher
The German Pinscher is a muscular and agile dog breed. Powerful, yet graceful, the Pinscher has an elegant appearance always poised and ready for any adventure. This breed makes for a great guard dog along with being a loving family pet. Be warned though, these are working dogs and for this reason need lots of exercise to get them to their maximum lifespan of 12-15 years.
When discussing dog lifespans, people are often under the misconception that the smaller the dog, the longer it will live. Although several of the breeds listed in our list have got a smaller frame, the top spot go’s to a larger dog. The key, as with humans is lots of exercise and a healthy diet.
Motivated by these statistics to focus on dog health? How can you help supplement a healthy diet you ask?
1) Look after your dogs joints with the Vets Kitchen Active Joints Glucosamine Gravy. Issues with joints are a common problem, so any treats or supplements which can help joint care for dogs are a great addition to the weekly diet in our opinion.
2) Promote gum, teeth and mouth hygiene with the Pet Munchies Buffalo Dental Chew. These premium gourmet dental chews are made with 100% natural human-grade grass-fed Buffalo. They are low in fat, gluten & grain free, and even feature Salmon oil to help with the skin and coat. These long-lasting chews keep our pup Barney busy for a good hour. It's great to know that they can be so invested in a treat which is healthy too.
3) Does your dog suffer from stress or anxiety? The Forthglade Calming Treats could be the answer. Lovingly hand-baked, these heart shaped treats contain a mix of natural botanicals widely known for their calming properties. The Camomile & lemon balm are two of the main ingredients for nervous or anxious dogs.
Love all these dog health products? You can find them perfectly packaged in our Dog Health Hampers or check out our range of individual dog health products here.
