The last few years have seen many of us welcome a new four-legged friend into our homes, as the Kennel Club has seen dog ownership rocket to record levels.
But with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your perfect pup.
Those with active lifestyles might want to consider a larger dog, while somebody with young children will want a family-friendly dog.
It’s also worth thinking about health issues that can affect certain breeds, for instance bulldogs are particularly susceptible to respiratory problems, while pugs commonly develop eye infections.
Of course, there’s no guarantee that a dog won't develop issues, but some are less likely to than others. So, if you want a happy dog while avoiding hefty vet bills, here are 10 of the healthiest dog breeds you should consider, according to the American Kennel Club.
9. Beagle
Developed primarily for hunting, the Beagle is now a popular pet with a keen sense of smell. The breed tends to stay healthy, with eye and hip problems only developing in later life. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
10. Siberian Husky
Given they've been bred to pull sleds over long distances in sub-zero conditions, it's perhaps not surprising that a Siberian Husky will tend to remain healthy as a family pet. While some individual animals will suffer from eye and hip issues, they are unusual early in life. Photo: Canva/Getty Images