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We’re a nation of dog lovers, with around one-in-three households including at least one four-legged friend.
By far the most popular pet in the UK, they make for wonderful companions, all the while improving both our mental and physical health - and that’s a scientific fact.
The army of dog owners continues to grow, with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
There’s also always the option of adopting a dog from a dog shelter for a minimal fee - for example from the Dogs Trust.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts the ability to adapt.
And one thing you might like to consider is that some breeds tend to stay healthier for longer, meaning your vet bills shouldn’t be too painful and your pet has a better chance of a pain-free and lengthy life.
Meanwhile others - including some of the most popular breeds - are prone to developing health problems.
Here are the 26 most - and least - naturally healthy breeds of dog.
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21. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards have two main health concerns - a predisposition to bone cancer and an abnormality in the heart muscle called cardiomyopathy. Owners should keep a close eye on their pets to look out for signs of pain when the dog walks, or changes in breathing indicative of a heart problem. | Photo: Canva/Getty Images
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22. Cocker Spaniel
Owners of friendly and loyal Cocker Spaniels should be aware that their pet is susceptible to a range of health issues, including a variety of orthopaedic issues, epilepsy, heart disease and liver disease. | Canva/Getty Images
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23. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland's huge size is responsible for its most common health problem - a condition called Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis which decreases the blood flow to the heart causing cardiac arrest. They are another breed prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. | Canva/Getty Images
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24. Boxer
The Boxer's cute shirt snout may look cute but, combined with its excitable nature, it means this dog is particularly susceptible to heatstroke. They are also known to have a high cancer risk, with a predisposition to lymphoma and brain tumors. Cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia, and allergies can also be issues to look out for. | Canva/Getty Images