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.
5. Border Terrier
A tough and affectionate breed of pup, Border Terriers are naturally hardy and suffer from relatively few genetic health issues. With regular activity, they live long, healthy lives, often celebrating their 14th birthday and beyond. | Canva/Getty Images
6. German Pinscher
The German Pinscher is not known for any particular breed-specific health conditions, other than the usual eye and hip complaints later in life. Regular excercise and proper care should lead to a long and healthy doggy life for these born entertainers. | Canva/Getty Images
7. Whippet
The perfect combintion of elegance and sturdiness, Whippets are low-maintenance dogs with excellent health overall. They rarely suffer from hereditary diseases, living to the age of around 12–15 years. Give them a daily run and they shouldn't need much in the way of vet visits. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Border Collie
The lively and loveable Border Collie used to suffer frem several genetic conditions but DNA testing by breeders has helped eliminate many of them, meaning they tend to now be one of the healthiest breeds. Deafness and epilepsy are the two most common conditions to still affect the world's most intelligent breed of dog. | Canva/Getty Images