Top Ten Dogs With the Least Amount of Health Problems

Standard poodles have a long life expectancy (about 15 years) compared with other large breeds and have few health concerns. Most health problems that can appear in poodles are eye-related, such as cataracts, teary eyes and progressive retinal atrophy.

Beagles are active little dogs who like a lot of exercise. Plenty of physical activity with a quality diet, will help keep them healthy for the long-term. Although there are a few genetic health concerns with beagles, such as epilepsy and heart problems, not all lines exhibit these problems, so getting the health background from the breeder will prepare you for difficulties your dog may face.

Black, yellow, chocolate or silver, whichever lab you choose, you'll be getting a dog with minimal genetic health problems. Talk to the breeder to see if your labrador's line is prone to joint dysplasia or eye disorders.

Chihuahuas have experienced genetic health problems in the past due to irresponsible breeding. However, if you get your Chihuahua from a reputable breeder, your dog won't likely experience problems with epilepsy or hip dysplasia. You can do your part to minimize stress-related problems by providing a safe environment that makes her feel secure.

Loyal and brave, greyhounds are a surprisingly healthy breed. Some can have problems with bloat, but feeding them smaller, more frequent meals -- rather than giving them their entire ration of food at once -- will eliminate that problem. Some greyhounds have dental issues; but by providing regular cleanings and toys that encourage chewing you should be able to keep your greyhound from significant dental problems.

The highly intelligent and active border collie has a fairly long life expectancy at around 15 years. This breed isn't known for experiencing a number of health issues, although some may have seizures or hip dysplasia.

Basenjis are an athletic and curious breed that are friendly and intelligent as well. The minimal health concerns for Basenjis include possible kidney and eye problems, which are treatable if caught in the early stages.

The fluffy and charming Bichon Frise is fairly low-maintenance when it comes to health concerns. They can be prone to allergies, which can cause ear and skin conditions, but thankfully those are treatable ailments.

Like the Chihuahua, the Doberman pinscher was once known for a number of health problems due to irresponsible breeding. But just as with any purebred dog, if you consult with the breeder on the puppy's genetic lineage, you can be reassured that your Doberman shouldn't have a tendency towards joint dysplasia or heart defects. There are two conditions, however, that Doberman pinschers are prone to, and both are serious. Those are Von Willegbrands disease, a blood disorder, and wobbler disease, a condition that affects the spine.

Although Australian cattle dogs have an average life expectancy of about 15 years, there have been Aussies that lived more than 20 years -- the oldest dog on record was an Aussie. These hardworking herd dogs are an extremely healthy breed with only hip dysplasia and deafness as possible health concerns.