12 Healthiest Small Dog Breeds

Are you searching for a small breed of dog for your little one? The cost of possible veterinary bills might be critical to your choice.

Are some small breeds of dogs healthier than others? Perhaps. Some small dog breeds are known to be healthier than others.

Some dog breeds are susceptible to specific genetic medical issues, like hip dysplasia, because of poor breeding approaches.

This does not signify that each dog of which breed will develop concerns. It only means that they are at higher risks.

If you are getting or adopting a new dog or pet, it is wise to know which genetic diseases are common to the dog breed you are interested in.

You can do this by asking about the breeding concerning the physical wellbeing of your potential pup parents as well as other relatives.

Many people are keeping asking what the healthiest small dog bird are. Keep on reading to know the answer.

havanese-dogs

Here are the Top 12 Healthiest Small Dog Breeds According to Expert 

One vital thing you have to know before getting started is that it is impossible to forecast a dog’s future wellbeing regardless of breed.

On the other hand, based on the specific breed, we may make an informed guess, and as of now, that is what you can do.

Even breeds of dogs with known health issues may live a healthy and longer life.

Nevertheless, you should be aware of the feasible conditions which affect each breed, so you take measure immediately.

For this list, we have chosen a small breed of dogs with few known health issues and are generally in good physical shape or healthy. 

1. Affenpinscher 

Affenpinscher

On top of the list of the healthiest small dog breed is Affenpinscher. This is a lovely and cute dog that will surely melt anyone’s heart.

This is also called Monkey Do because of its capability to make pet owners laugh with its stunts. 

Those living with this breed of dog will tell you that they are sensitive, smart, and brave.

Affenpinscher does not allow his small body size to stop protecting you and your belongings from the threat. This is a tough and sturdy breed with twelve to fourteen years.

2. Bolognese

bolognese

There’s no doubt that Bolognese is considered one of the healthiest and most remarkable and lovely breeds of small dogs.

With a friendly disposition, playful nature, as well as devotion to its master, this breed of dog is fun to have in your house. 

When it comes to health, this has the usual issues you will hear about dogs, such as kneecaps, hip dysplasia, and Legg-Calve Perthes illness.

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It has a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Worry no more about how you will survive those irresistible puppy eyes.

He is renowned for getting what he likes and has superb manipulative skills. 

3. Havanese 

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Aside from being the fluffiest breed of dog, it is also considered the healthiest amongst small dog breeds.

It is a remarkable family pet that thrives on attention and loves to observe what is occurring from up high. 

Despite its miniature size, it required daily exercise. This breed of dog has the usual small dog issues, so meaning elbow and hip dysplasia.

You need to call your vet about these issues before adopting. This is also prone to cataracts and deafness but has a lifespan of 13 to 15 years. 

4. Norfolk Terrier 

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This breed of dogs has fewer health problems than other dogs out there.

This puppy has an astoundingly fearless feature for such a miniature body, and you will have your hands full attempting to tame her stubborn nature. 

On the other hand, this breed of dog makes a superb companion and always ready and available to have fun.

Norfolk is a playful dog, which you may not be able to keep up with her. 

When it comes to wellbeing, this breed of dog does not have many health problems.

On the other hand, your main concerns are MVD or heart abnormality and hip dysplasia. 

This breed of dog is very sensitive to vaccines, so ensure to pay attention to her after vaccination. It can live up to 15 years. 

5. Boston Terriers

small-guard-dogs-boston-terrier

If you are looking for the healthiest breed of dog and at the same time adaptable, adorable well as dapper little fellows, then you have to consider this one.

Boston Terriers are amongst the simplest and easiest pet to train and groom.

While this breed of dog is susceptible to some health issues, the problems can be avoided easily if care is taken once they are still puppies.

Boston Terriers need some attention to their daily diet to keep away from flatulence.

In general, aside from being one of the healthiest small dog breeds, Boston Terries also make loveable and healthy family companions. You should get this one for your kids and loved ones.

6. Pembroke Welsh Corgis

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Sounds strange, right? This is also one of the healthiest breeds of dog available today.

This is a lively and energetic dog that will forever love its friends and families. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are smart and, at the same time, easy to train.

However, compared to other dogs on the list, this one sheds a lot. Therefore, it is essential to keep away from this dog if you or any family members have allergies.

Like Beagles, this breed of dog possibly tends to gain weight that makes an appropriate, balanced diet and daily exercise.

This breed of dogs also has a lifespan of up to 15 years, making it a good and lovely companion. You should consider this one. 

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7. The Shetland Sheepdog

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Are you looking for a smart dog and at the same time healthiest and not prone to various medical issues to keep away from spending a huge amount of money on the vet?

If so, look no further than Shetland Sheepdog. This is considered one of the smartest breeds of dog that originates in Scotland.

Like other dogs, Shetland Sheepdogs shed a lot and hard to groom. So, lots of patience is required if you plan to get this one.

In general, this is a quiet dog. However, he will bark once he or she senses strangers.

This breed of dog is also very energetic and needs a lot of room to exercise and play.

Therefore condo and apartment life aren’t suggested. Once he isn’t mentally stimulated, he might become destructive or troublesome as of his natural intelligence.

This breed of dog has a lifespan of 13 to 15 years. Make sure to pay attention to some medical issues and see that the vet regularly checks him.

8. Schnoodles

schnoodle

This is a hybrid breed of a small dog from Schnauzers and Poodles. Most often, owners opt for this breed as they are smart and hypoallergenic.

This breed of dog has the playfulness and spunk of s Schnauzer. He is also very active and more than willing to please his owners.

This is considered a great pet for the whole family as it reacts well around kids. However, this is also prone to various health issues, so proper care and maintenance are required.

It is highly advisable to do a regular checkup to maintain his healthiness. This breed of dog has a lifespan of 12 to 15 years old. 

9. Welsh Terriers

welsh-terrier

If you are searching for the healthiest and, at the same time, very active dog, then you should get this one.

Welsh Terriers is a very active dog that just loves life. This is a wonderful family dog who is ideal for children and seniors as well.

It requires lots of exercises and a good diet to maintain a high metabolism.

This dog doesn’t shed a lot, and in general, it is considered one of the healthiest small dog breeds today. This can live up to 15 years.

10. Chihuahuas

miniature-chihuahua

This is the most popular breed of dog on the list and one of the healthiest.

This breed of dog is renowned for their longevity once they are taken care of.

Chihuahuas can live up to eighteen years as long as proper care and regular maintenance are provided.

This is a very small dog with big personalities. Chihuahua is also very protective of their masters and owners.

Despite the bad reputation, this is ideal for little ones and is very friendly once socialized early enough. This also sheds a little and is easy to groom. 

It is vital to maintain a regular regimen of exercise and a balanced diet to avoid nutritional issues. 

11. Coton De Tulear 

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Like Bolognese, this breed of dog is not just healthy but also very fluffy and adorable that will surely melt the heart of everyone with its cure face as well as expressive eyes.

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This breed of dog has a gentle disposition and enjoys hanging out with family. It is also affectionate with little ones and other pets or dogs. 

This is an extremely healthy breed of dog, with some exceptions being progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, and knees, which slip out of place.

This is one of the best dogs to have if you live in a condo or apartment. This dog has a lifespan of up to 15 years.

However, to last this long proper maintenance and a balanced diet are required. You are also advised to bring this dog to the vet for a regular checkup. 

12. Lakeland Terrier

lakeland-terrier

This breed of dog was made to hunt as well as kill foxes. No wonder that is one of the healthiest small breeds of dogs. 

It’s an aggressive, stubborn well as a smart fellow, which gets on well with kids, seniors, and other pets.

One thing that makes this apart from the rest is that it doesn’t have major health issues. On the other hand, you must keep an eye on some medical issues such as von Willebrand’s disease and Leg-Perthes.

On the other hand, you are looking forward to spending 16 years with this lovely and cute do. 

On the other hand, if you get him from a reliable breeder who is adverse with the dog, for sure, you wouldn’t have any problems with this cute buddy. 

So, what’s the Healthiest Small Dog Breed? Balance Diet Matters a Lot 

The healthy food for your four-legged friend will differ depending on nutritional requirements, size as well as breed.

In general, a small breed of dog needs a high caloric content for every pound than bigger dogs.

Small dogs don’t essentially require bigger portions. It just a matter of the right components in the appropriate amounts. Deficiency in calories can lead to hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. 

Small dogs have a higher metabolism, thus require more calories to keep the body functioning properly.

Many breeds need a balanced diet with veggies, proteins, fruits, and grains.

Luckily, many commercial brands come with enough components for a good diet. The problem occurs in the portion sizes.

One common misconception is that smaller breeds need a small portion throughout the day.

It’s vital to keep in mind that some small breeds might require smaller portions, however, more often all through the day.

Diverse brands have diverse serving recommendations. So, it’s always vital to ask your vet for your little friend’s right brand and diet.

A lot of other small dog breeds are inherently healthy as well as have longevity.

To ensure good wellbeing, always adopt from reliable breeders with health records from parents. Keep away from adopting from careless breeders, pet stores, and puppy mills when possible.

You also need to ensure that the living area is safe for your four-legged friend and that you’re utilizing the right methods like positive reinforcement.

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