The Healthiest Dog Breeds
These breeds earn our top health grades, S and A — the fewest inherited diseases, based on data rather than gut feeling.
Key takeaways
79 dog breeds earn a grade of S or A, putting them among the healthiest breeds.
- Top grades go to breeds with few and usually mild inherited diseases.
- Many robust breeds are original types not bred toward physical extremes.
- Even with healthy breeds, check the tests a good breeder still runs.
The healthiest breeds at a glance
- 13 recommended
As an original pariah dog, the Carolina Dog has benefited from centuries of natural selection, which is why hereditary diseases are extremely rare in this breed. Typical defects such as hip dysplasia (HD) or degenerative myelopathy (DM) are practically non-existent in this robust landrace. Due to the absence of selective breeding extremes, the breed is in an excellent genetic position, which is why there are no mandatory health tests required.
- 22 required tests3 recommended
As an extremely high-performance working dog, the Alaskan Husky benefits from a high level of genetic diversity and is very robust compared to pure show breeds. Nevertheless, there are specific risks such as the fatal neurological condition Alaskan Husky Encephalopathy (AHE) as well as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), which can lead to blindness. Since there are no strict kennel club requirements for this breed, buyers must independently ensure that the parent dogs have been tested for these hereditary diseases.
- 32 required tests3 recommended
The American Eskimo Dog has a manageable health risk profile, which is why it receives a grade of B. Key mandatory health tests for this breed include screenings for hip dysplasia (HD) and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), a condition that can lead to blindness. By ensuring that the parents have certified test results when purchasing your puppy, you can effectively minimize the risk of these conditions.
- 41 required tests1 recommended
The American Leopard Hound is considered a very robust working breed with a low genetic disease burden. Particular attention should be paid to the M-locus and associated M-locus issues, which can lead to severe hearing and vision impairments if dogs are bred improperly. However, by consistently performing mandatory health tests for this coat color genetics, these health risks can be effectively avoided.
- 52 required tests5 recommended
As an extremely robust working dog, the Australian Kelpie is genetically well-positioned and shows almost no breed-specific weaknesses. Nevertheless, buyers should be aware of rare but serious risks such as cerebellar abiotrophy (a neurological condition) and hip dysplasia (HD). Since official mandatory health tests are often lacking, puppy buyers must actively inquire about the health of the parents directly with the breeder.
- 61 required tests4 recommended
As a specialized hunting dog, the Bayerischer Gebirgsschweißhund benefits from strict selection for fitness, which is why the breed is considered very healthy. Nevertheless, buyers should pay attention to hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED), both of which are strictly monitored by the responsible breed club. Eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) are also monitored in breeding programs to ensure the breed remains robust.
- 73 required tests2 recommended
The Bergamasker Hirtenhund is a robust working breed, but it does carry a certain risk for elbow dysplasia (ED), which is why screening of the parents is mandatory. Furthermore, breeders must pay close attention to M-locus (merle factor) issues to prevent health complications in the puppies. Overall, the genetic burden is manageable, making this breed a solid and healthy choice.
- 82 required tests1 recommended
The Bolonka Zwetna is a largely robust small dog, though there are breed-specific vulnerabilities that require attention. Patellar luxation and the eye condition progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) are the most well-known risks, which are, however, well-controlled through mandatory health tests in breeding programs. Prospective buyers should insist on seeing certified test results for both parents to avoid potential issues with lameness or blindness later in the dog's life.
- 93 required tests
The Bouvier des Ardennes receives a B grade because, as a robust working breed, it carries an average genetic risk. Mandatory health tests for hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) are essential to effectively minimize common joint issues within the breed. Additionally, potential eye conditions should be ruled out through appropriate screenings before you commit to a purchase.
- 105 required tests4 recommended
The Brandlbracke is considered an exceptionally robust working breed for which there are currently no specific mandatory genetic tests. Nevertheless, buyers should look for hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED), which can occasionally occur in hunting dogs of this size but are well-controlled through performance-based breeding. Overall, the breed exhibits excellent functional health with no known breed-specific hereditary diseases.
- 115 required tests
The Braque d'Auvergne is generally a healthy breed with a very manageable genetic risk profile. As is typical for the breed, the primary concerns involve the musculoskeletal system, which is why mandatory health tests for hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) are essential for breeding dogs. If you ensure that the parents have been screened and have the appropriate X-ray results, you will be choosing a very robust hunting dog.
- 122 required tests
The Braque Francais is a robust hunting breed with a very low number of known hereditary diseases. Breeding efforts focus primarily on the common joint conditions hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED). Since mandatory health tests for these are well-established, you can effectively minimize the risk when buying a puppy by choosing a responsible breeder.
- 135 required tests
The Braque français (type Gascogne) is a robust hunting breed with an average health profile. Breeding efforts primarily focus on the musculoskeletal system, with hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) being well-monitored through mandatory health tests. Prospective buyers should consistently ask to see the official, clear X-ray results for both parents.
- 141 required tests5 recommended
The Braque français (Pyrenees type) is considered a very robust hunting breed with a low known disease burden. Since there are hardly any mandatory breed-specific genetic tests, buyers should primarily pay attention to general risks such as hip dysplasia (HD) and eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Without targeted health screenings of the parent animals, a certain residual risk for these typical problems remains.
- 155 required tests
The Braque Saint-Germain has a solid health profile for a larger hunting dog and receives a grade of B. Hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) are the primary focus regarding common joint conditions, but these are well-managed through mandatory health tests within the breeding program. Aside from these standard orthopedic risks, the breed is considered very robust and genetically unremarkable.
- 161 required tests2 recommended
The Cesky Fousek is a very robust hunting breed with an extremely low genetic disease burden. Hip dysplasia (HD) is the only significant concern regarding the musculoskeletal system, but it is effectively managed through mandatory health tests within the breeding program. Since other typical hereditary diseases play virtually no role in this breed, the risk for buyers is very manageable.
- 171 required tests4 recommended
The Chien d'Artois is considered a robust French hunting breed for which there are currently no mandatory genetic health tests. Nevertheless, buyers should be mindful of issues typical for larger scent hounds, such as hip dysplasia (HD) and chronic ear infections (otitis) due to their long, floppy ears. Since there is very little systematic data available, taking a close look at the health of the parent dogs is essential.
- 185 recommended
The Cirneco dell'Etna is an extremely robust primitive breed for which hereditary diseases are virtually non-existent; there are not even any mandatory health tests required. Nevertheless, breeding dogs should be screened for patellar luxation and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) to rule out even these minimal risks. If you are looking for a fit dog without a heavy genetic burden, this breed is an excellent choice.
- 191 required tests6 recommended
The Papillon is considered a very healthy breed, as there are only a few known breed-specific hereditary conditions. The primary focus is almost exclusively on eye diseases such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and the breed-specific Progressive Retinal Atrophy 1 (PRA-Pap1). Since reliable DNA tests exist for both conditions and are mandatory health tests for breeding, this risk can be effectively managed when purchasing from reputable breeders.
- 202 required tests3 recommended
The Coton de Tulear is a largely robust small dog breed, though it can be prone to breed-specific issues such as patellar luxation and various eye conditions. These two risks are well-managed through mandatory health tests. By consistently ensuring that the puppy's parents have been screened and have the corresponding health certificates, you can significantly minimize the risk of these conditions.
- 21
The Kritikos Lagonikos is an ancient, extremely robust landrace breed for which breed-specific hereditary diseases such as hip dysplasia (HD) or patellar luxation play virtually no role. As there are no known genetic predispositions, the breed is considered to be exceptionally healthy. Prospective buyers should still ensure that the parents are fit and active, as there are hardly any standardized genetic tests available for this rare breed.
- 221 required tests4 recommended
The Hrvatski Ovcar is a hardy, primitive working breed with no known breed-specific hereditary diseases on record. Nevertheless, breeding dogs should be screened for hip dysplasia (HD) and patellar luxation to rule out these skeletal conditions common in active breeds. As there are virtually no genetic predispositions, the breed is considered to be exceptionally healthy overall.
- 233 required tests3 recommended
The Danish-Swedish Farmdog is considered an exceptionally robust and vital breed with a very low genetic burden. Nevertheless, buyers should be mindful of hip dysplasia (HD) and patellar luxation, which can occur sporadically despite the breed's general hardiness. Furthermore, the eye condition primary lens luxation (PLL) should be ruled out through appropriate genetic testing of the parent animals.
- 241 required tests6 recommended
The Nederlandse Kooikerhondje is a vital breed, but it is susceptible to specific hereditary conditions due to a historical genetic bottleneck. Thanks to consistent breeding tests, the fatal Kooiker paralysis (Hereditary Necrotizing Myelopathy) and Von Willebrand disease (a blood clotting disorder) are now very well controlled. When purchasing a puppy, you should also check the patellar luxation status of the parent dogs.
- 253 recommended1 exemplary
As a robust working dog, the English Foxhound is genetically very healthy, with almost no documented breed-specific hereditary diseases. Nevertheless, buyers should look out for hip dysplasia (HD) and the rare but serious condition of renal amyloidosis. Since there are hardly any standardized genetic tests for this breed, choosing a responsible breeder who clinically screens the parent dogs is particularly important.
- 2610 required tests1 recommended
The English Pointer is a very robust working dog, with the breed association strictly monitoring and effectively minimizing hip dysplasia (HD) through mandatory health tests. Buyers should also occasionally look out for elbow dysplasia (ED), although the breed is largely spared from the severe hereditary diseases that affect other large breeds. If you ensure the parents have healthy joints, you will find this breed to be a genetically very fit companion.
- 271 required tests3 recommended2 exemplary
The Finnish Spitz is a very robust, primitive breed with a refreshingly low disease burden. Among the few mandatory health tests are screenings for hip dysplasia (HD) and hereditary eye conditions, which are kept well under control thanks to consistent selective breeding. By checking the official test results of the parents when purchasing a puppy, you can effectively minimize the risk of these typical health issues.
- 285 required tests
The Epagneul Français is a robust hunting breed with a manageable genetic health profile. As with many larger breeds, the primary risks involve the musculoskeletal system, specifically hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED). Since mandatory health tests exist for both conditions, you can significantly minimize the risk when buying a puppy by choosing a responsible breeder.
- 291 required tests7 recommended
As a robust hunting dog, the Deutsch Langhaar is generally in good health, though the breed association mandates numerous health tests. Joint conditions such as hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED), as well as incurable epilepsy, are the most well-known risks, which are, however, well-controlled through consistent selection. Buyers should insist on seeing complete health reports for both parents to minimize the risk of these hereditary conditions.
- 303 required tests2 recommended2 exemplary
The Deutscher Pinscher has a solid, average health foundation with only two mandatory health tests. Hip dysplasia (HD) and hereditary eye conditions are the primary risks here, though these are well-controlled and minimized through mandatory breeding tests. As long as you verify the certified test results of the parent dogs, you can expect a robust and agile companion.
- 311 required tests3 recommended
The Griffon Nivernais is considered a very robust and primitive hunting breed for which there are currently no mandatory genetic tests. Nevertheless, buyers should be mindful of hip dysplasia (HD) and eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), as these can occur in scenthounds of this size. Without official breeding programs, a residual risk remains, which is why the parent animals should be carefully vetted.
- 323 required tests2 recommended
The Havanese is a very robust and long-lived breed with a pleasingly low genetic disease burden. A key concern is cataracts, which are well-managed through mandatory health tests within breeding programs. While one should remain mindful of breed-specific vulnerabilities such as patellar luxation and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), the Havanese stands out as an exceptionally healthy breed compared to many others.
- 332 required tests4 recommended
The Hovawart is considered a robust and exceptionally healthy breed, with hereditary conditions effectively managed through strict breeding regulations. Nevertheless, prospective buyers should remain mindful of hip dysplasia (HD), which remains a concern despite successful breeding programs, as well as the neurological condition degenerative myelopathy (DM). Hypothyroidism also occurs occasionally in the breed, so it is advisable to check that the parent dogs have undergone the appropriate health screenings.
- 345 recommended
The Hygenhund is considered a robust working breed for which there are currently no specific mandatory genetic tests. Nevertheless, prospective buyers should be mindful of conditions common in larger scenthounds, such as hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED), as these joint issues can occur if selective breeding is neglected. Additionally, due to the breed's characteristic pendulous ears, they are prone to painful ear infections.
- 352 required tests4 recommended
The Podenco Ibicenco is a very primitive and robust breed with above-average health. Genetic risks are almost exclusively limited to the eyes, with cataracts and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) being the primary concerns. However, since these conditions are easily managed through targeted breeding tests, the risk for puppy buyers is very low when choosing a responsible breeder.
- 363 required tests
The Irish Glen of Imaal Terrier is a very robust breed with a refreshingly low genetic disease burden. The primary hereditary condition, the eye disease Cone-Rod Dystrophy 3 (crd3), is effectively managed through mandatory DNA testing in breeding programs. As there are few other serious hereditary diseases common to the breed beyond crd3, it is considered one of the healthiest terriers.
- 371 required tests4 recommended
The Jura Laufhund is considered a very robust hunting breed for which there are currently no mandatory genetic tests. Nevertheless, buyers should be mindful of breed-specific vulnerabilities such as hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED), which can occur in larger scenthounds. Additionally, their long, pendulous ears require regular care to prevent chronic ear infections (otitis).
- 385 recommended
The Koolie is considered an extremely robust working breed, but it is not immune to risks typical of herding dogs. When purchasing, it is essential to ensure that the parents have been tested for the MDR1 gene defect (drug sensitivity) and Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) to prevent blindness. An examination for hip dysplasia (HD) is also advisable despite the breed's agility, as there are often no strict mandatory health tests in place for this rare breed.
- 391 required tests
The Löwchen is an exceptionally robust small dog breed with a very low genetic disease burden. The primary focus is on patellar luxation, which is well-managed through consistent selective breeding. Aside from occasional screenings for Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), there are hardly any serious hereditary conditions, making this breed a very healthy choice.
- 401 required tests4 recommended
The Luzerner Laufhund is considered a very robust and functional hunting breed for which there are currently no specific mandatory genetic tests. Nevertheless, prospective buyers should be aware of general issues common in larger scenthounds, such as hip dysplasia (HD) and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Additionally, their long, pendulous ears require regular care to prevent chronic ear infections (otitis).
- 412 required tests1 recommended2 exemplary
The Magyar Agár is a very robust and athletic breed with a low genetic disease burden. Important eye conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and cataracts are already well-controlled through mandatory health tests within breeding programs. By choosing a reputable breeder, you will gain an exceptionally healthy companion with minimal breed-specific risks.
- 421 required tests4 recommended1 exemplary
The Montenegrin Mountain Hound is considered a very robust working breed for which there are currently no specific mandatory genetic tests. Nevertheless, buyers should be mindful of typical issues in larger scent hounds, such as hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED), as there is very little official data available on these conditions. Without targeted health screenings of the parent dogs, the purchase remains a minor health risk despite the breed's natural hardiness.
- 437 recommended
The Mountain Cur is considered an extremely robust working dog, for which no mandatory health tests are required due to a lack of breed-specific hereditary diseases. Nevertheless, buyers should be mindful of hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED), which can occur in any large, active breed. Overall, the breed benefits from a strict selection process focused on performance, which keeps it genetically very healthy.
- 443 recommended
For the Niemandsländer, there are currently no established mandatory genetic tests, which makes comprehensive preventative screening difficult. Nevertheless, buyers should be aware of potential eye conditions such as cataracts or Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), which can occur sporadically in this breed group. Since there is very little standardized data available, the most important protection here is to ensure the breeder has specifically screened the parent dogs.
- 451 required tests2 recommended
The Norrbottenspitz is an extremely robust, primitive breed with a refreshingly low genetic disease burden. Nevertheless, when purchasing a puppy, you should be aware of isolated cases of patellar luxation and hereditary eye conditions such as cataracts, even though there are no strict mandatory health tests for these. If you are looking for a fit, natural dog, this breed is an excellent choice in terms of health.
- 463 required tests1 recommended
Der Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen steht gesundheitlich sehr gut da, da die Rasse im Vergleich zu anderen nur von sehr wenigen Erbkrankheiten betroffen ist. Ein Hauptaugenmerk liegt auf Augenerkrankungen wie dem Primären Offenwinkelglaukom (POAG), das sich jedoch durch gezielte DNA-Tests in der Zucht hervorragend kontrollieren lässt. Zudem sollten allgemeine Augenanomalien vorab tierärztlich bei den Elterntieren untersucht werden, um das Risiko für spätere Sehbeeinträchtigungen zu minimieren.
- 471 required tests4 recommended
The Petit bleu de Gascogne is considered a robust French hunting breed with few known hereditary burdens, which is why no specific genetic tests are mandatory. Nevertheless, prospective buyers should be aware of breed-specific vulnerabilities such as hip dysplasia (HD) and chronic ear infections due to their long, pendulous ears. There is also a risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) in this deep-chested breed.
- 481 required tests4 recommended
The Pharaoh Hound is a very primitive and robust breed with an excellent health record. Since there are hardly any breed-specific hereditary diseases that occur frequently, there are no strict mandatory health tests; however, you should still look out for hip dysplasia (HD) and patellar luxation. Occasionally, eye conditions such as cataracts can occur, which is why it is advisable to check the health status of the parent dogs.
- 496 required tests
The Epagneul Picard exhibits an average health profile typical for hunting breeds, earning it a B grade. Important joint conditions such as hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) are known risks, but they can be effectively managed through responsible selective breeding and radiographic screening. Additionally, breeding dogs should be examined for non-specific eye conditions to preserve the robustness of these rare French pointing dogs.
- 504 recommended
As an original hunting breed, the Podenco Andaluz has been selected for extreme robustness, which is why no breed-specific hereditary diseases affect its profile. Nevertheless, buyers should be aware of general orthopedic risks such as hip dysplasia (HD) and patellar luxation, which can occasionally occur in active dogs of this size. Since the breed has been spared from extreme breeding trends, it is in an excellent state of health.
- 514 recommended
As an ancient hunting breed, the Podenco Canario is extremely robust, which is why there are no mandatory genetic tests for conditions like Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) or hip dysplasia (HD). Since there are hardly any known breed-specific hereditary diseases, the breed enjoys excellent health. Prospective buyers should simply look for the general fitness of the parent dogs, as genetic defects are an absolute rarity in this breed.
- 522 required tests
The small Podengo Portugues is a very primitive and robust breed with minimal genetic burden. The only notable risk concerns patellar luxation (dislocation of the kneecap), which is well-controlled through mandatory health tests in breeding programs. Since serious hereditary diseases are practically non-existent in this breed, it ranks among the most health-stable breeds available.
- 531 required tests3 recommended
The Podengo Português (wire-haired, small) is considered an exceptionally robust and primitive breed with excellent genetic health. Occasional risks such as patellar luxation and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) are extremely rare compared to other breeds and do not represent a structural issue. Buyers can expect a very resilient dog with almost no known breed-specific hereditary diseases.
- 542 recommended
The Poitevin is considered a very primitive and robust scenthound, for which, however, no specific mandatory genetic tests exist. Prospective buyers should primarily look out for hip dysplasia (HD) and the risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), as these typical problems in large dogs are hardly monitored by breeders due to a lack of data. Ear infections are also a concern due to their heavy, pendulous ears.
- 551 required tests4 recommended
The Gonczy Polski is a very robust hunting breed with an excellent health foundation, for which no specific genetic tests are required. Nevertheless, breeding dogs should be screened for hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) to prevent joint issues. Due to their pendulous ears, there is also a slightly increased risk of ear infections (otitis externa), which can be easily managed with proper care.
- 561 required tests3 recommended3 exemplary
The Porcelaine is a very primitive and robust French scenthound breed with a refreshingly low genetic disease burden. Nevertheless, buyers should look out for hip dysplasia (HD), which can occur in dogs of this size, as well as a susceptibility to ear infections due to their long, hanging ears. The risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) should also be kept in mind, as is the case with many larger hunting breeds.
- 572 required tests3 recommended
As an ancient breed, the Podengo Português (Small Smooth-Haired) is extremely robust and has very few genetic health concerns. Occasional risks such as patellar luxation or Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) occur only sporadically and are well-managed through responsible breeding. Buyers are choosing one of the healthiest small dog breeds available.
- 583 required tests1 recommended
The Berger des Pyrénées is considered a robust working breed with an average health profile. Key mandatory health tests primarily focus on hip dysplasia (HD) as well as tail deformities to prevent skeletal and spinal issues. Since these risks are well-managed through targeted breeding tests, the breed is overall in a solid state of health.
- 592 required tests1 recommended
The Berger des Pyrénées (Langhaar) is a very robust breed with a refreshingly low genetic disease burden. Mandatory health tests, such as those for hip dysplasia (HD) and tail deformities, provide a solid foundation for breeding and help prevent major health issues in daily life. Since severe, life-shortening hereditary diseases are rarely an issue, the breed is exceptionally stable in terms of overall health.
- 602 required tests3 recommended
The Berger des Pyrénées (Kurzhaar) is a robust working breed with a very low number of known hereditary diseases. Nevertheless, buyers should be aware of hip dysplasia (HD), which is well-managed through mandatory health tests within the breeding program. Additionally, the risk of tail deformation should be actively discussed with the breeder before purchase.
- 613 recommended2 exemplary
The Redbone Coonhound is considered a very robust working breed, but official mandatory health tests for breeding are lacking in the registry. Buyers must therefore look closely themselves, as hip dysplasia (HD) and eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) can occur in this breed as well. Without documented health screenings of the parents, the purchase remains a bit of a gamble regarding the dog's health.
- 622 required tests1 recommended
The Russkiy Toy is generally a healthy breed, with patellar luxation being the primary focus of mandatory health tests. As is typical for toy breeds, prospective owners should also be mindful of dental malocclusions and a susceptibility to tracheal collapse. If you prioritize a robust breeding line, you will find this breed to be a quite fit and active companion.
- 634 required tests8 recommended4 exemplary
The Russo-European Laika is considered a very robust working dog, though the breeding regulations require extensive preventative eye care. Conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and eyelid abnormalities (entropion) must be ruled out through mandatory health tests. Together with the standard screening for hip dysplasia (HD), the typical risks for this otherwise fit breed are well-managed.
- 642 required tests1 recommended
The Saluki enjoys excellent health, as this ancient sighthound breed is largely unaffected by most hereditary conditions common in larger breeds. Breeders should perform mandatory heart screenings via ultrasound to rule out cardiac issues like cardiomyopathy. Since joint conditions such as hip dysplasia are also rare in this athletic breed, the Saluki is considered an exceptionally robust and healthy dog.
- 656 recommended
The Schillerstövare is considered a very robust Swedish hunting breed, though there are no official mandatory health tests in place. Nevertheless, prospective buyers should look for screening regarding hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED), as these conditions can occur in scent hounds of this size. Given the small population size, it is also advisable to inquire about the risk of epilepsy and the level of inbreeding before purchasing.
- 662 required tests3 recommended
The Schipperke is an exceptionally robust and long-lived small dog with very few genetic health concerns. Brachyury (congenital short tail) is the only formal issue recorded; additionally, buyers should ensure that parents have been tested for Mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIB (MPS IIIB) and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). If you are looking for a fit, primitive companion, this breed is an excellent choice in terms of health.
- 674 recommended
As a primitive hunting breed, the Segugio Italiano is extremely robust and has very few known breed-specific hereditary diseases. Nevertheless, buyers should be aware of general issues such as hip dysplasia (HD) and rare cases of epilepsy or Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), as there are no official mandatory health tests for this breed. By choosing a puppy from healthy parents with voluntary joint and eye screenings, you are ensuring a genetically very fit companion.
- 681 required tests4 recommended
As an original Italian working dog, the Segugio Maremmano is extremely robust and free from known breed-specific hereditary diseases. Since there are no mandatory genetic tests, buyers should still look for general risks such as hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED) in the parent dogs. Overall, the breed is exceptionally vital and presents very few health concerns compared to other breeds.
- 691 required tests1 exemplary
Progressive retinal atrophy (rcd1a-PRA) is the only significant hereditary disease in the Sloughi, but it is exceptionally well-controlled through targeted genetic testing within the breeding association. Since typical large-breed issues like hip dysplasia (HD) are rarely a concern for this athletic sighthound, the breed is considered extremely robust and long-lived. When purchasing a puppy, buyers should primarily ensure that the parents have a clear rcd1a status.
- 702 required tests1 exemplary
The Slovenský Čuvač is a robust working breed with a very low genetic disease burden. Hip dysplasia (HD) is the only condition subject to mandatory screening, and it is well-controlled through breeding tests. Nevertheless, as this is a large breed, buyers should remain aware of general risks such as elbow dysplasia (ED) and gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) to be on the safe side.
- 711 required tests4 recommended
The Slovakian Rough-haired Pointer is considered a robust working breed for which no specific genetic tests are currently mandatory. Nevertheless, buyers should be mindful of conditions common in large hunting breeds, such as hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED), as these can severely limit mobility. Additionally, eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) should be addressed by verifying that the parent dogs have undergone the necessary health screenings before you commit to a purchase.
- 724 required tests1 exemplary
The Slovensky Kopov is an extremely robust hunting breed and receives an A grade. Hip dysplasia (HD) is the only relevant hereditary condition known, and it is effectively managed through mandatory health tests in breeding programs. Other serious genetic defects play virtually no role in this primitive breed.
- 732 required tests
The Steirische Rauhhaarbracke is an exceptionally robust hunting breed with a very low genetic disease burden. Hip dysplasia (HD) is the only mandatory health test required to help prevent joint issues in later life. Since other serious hereditary conditions are rarely an issue in this breed, the health risk when purchasing from a reputable breeder is considered very low.
- 741 required tests3 recommended
The Erdelyi Kopo is considered a very robust and primitive hunting breed for which no specific genetic health tests are currently mandatory. Nevertheless, prospective buyers should be mindful of conditions common in larger dogs, such as hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED), which should be ruled out by ensuring the parent dogs have been X-rayed. Isolated cases of epilepsy can also occur, which is why, despite the breed's generally high level of health, careful selection of a breeder is highly recommended.
- 752 required tests
As an original hunting breed, the Tiroler Bracke is genetically well-positioned, with hip dysplasia (HD) being the only notable hereditary condition. This potential weakness of the musculoskeletal system is already effectively controlled through mandatory health tests in breeding programs. Other typical hereditary diseases or breed-specific defects are practically non-existent in this robust breed.
- 764 required tests9 recommended5 exemplary
The West Siberian Laika is a robust working dog, yet it requires an above-average number of mandatory health tests, particularly concerning the eyes. Hereditary eye conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma must be consistently ruled out through regular breeding tests. Additionally, screening for elbow dysplasia (ED) is essential to prevent painful joint issues at an early stage.
- 771 required tests5 recommended4 exemplary
The Whippet is an exceptionally robust and athletic breed with above-average health. Potential risks such as Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), the MDR1 gene defect (drug sensitivity), or the rare myostatin deficiency can be reliably ruled out through simple DNA tests prior to breeding. If you consistently check for these test results in the parents when purchasing a puppy, you will gain an extremely fit and long-lived companion.
- 784 required tests4 recommended
The Korthals Griffon is considered a robust hunting dog, but its breed profile shows a few typical vulnerabilities that are monitored through mandatory health tests. Hip dysplasia (HD) and eyelid defects such as entropion, in particular, require attention in the parent animals. Since dental defects are also consistently recorded, buyers should specifically ask breeders for their test results.
- 791 required tests4 recommended
The Yakutskaya Laika is a very primitive and robust breed, with hereditary issues being rare. Nevertheless, prospective buyers should specifically ask for test results regarding hip dysplasia (HD) and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), as these can occur despite the lack of strict mandatory testing requirements. By ensuring the parents are healthy, you will gain a genetically very fit companion.
Why these breeds are so healthy
Few inherited diseases
These breeds carry comparatively few documented genetic conditions.
Moderate build
No extreme conformation (no extreme flat faces, no overlong backs) that burdens health.
Solid breeding base
A broad gene pool and established tests keep the risk low.
Frequently asked questions
What is the healthiest dog breed?
The healthiest breeds carry a grade of S or A — they have few known inherited diseases. The full, data-driven list is at the top of this page.
Are mixed breeds healthier than purebreds?
Often yes, thanks to a broader genetic base. But a healthy breed from health-tested parents can be just as robust.
What should I still watch for despite a good grade?
Even with healthy breeds: health-tested parents and a responsible breeder are decisive. Ask which tests were done.
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