We’re officially a nations of dog owners, with the UK’s most popular pet living in around one-in-three households (and rising).
That means that there are around three million pooches living here, with more people choosing to join the army of dog lovers every week.
Of course, if you are looking to welcome a dog into your family, there are 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
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.
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.
The Labrador Retriever, for instance, may be the world’s favourite dog, but they are predisposed to ear, eye and joint problems.
That’s why they don’t make this list - of the 16 healthiest beeds of adorable dog.
1. Australian Cattle Dog
A relatively rare breed in Britain an Australian Cattle Dog called Bluey made it into The Guiness Book of Records as the world's oldest dog. He reached the amazing age of 29. While longevity and health don't always go hand-in-hand, the breed are known to stay fairly fit until a ripe old age. | Canva/Getty Images
2. Shiba Inu
Loved in their native Japan for their extreme loyalty, the Shiba Inu is not usual amongst dogs in that it can ofter suffer arthritis in their later years. Other than that though, they have every chance of living issue free for many years. | Canva/Getty Images
3. Belgian Malinois
Bred as herding dogs, the Belgian Malinois is a close cousin of the more popular German Shepherd. Like many working dog breeds they are naturally intelligent, very hardy and tend to stay healthy. The one condition they are predisposed to is cataracts. | Canva/Getty Images
4. Poodle
No matter which size of Poodle you go for - Standard, Miniature or Toy - these immaculate dogs tend to stay in good health, with a lifespans of up to 18 years. Only older dogs tend to develop the joint and eye issues common to the breed. | Canva/Getty Images