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Healthiest Dogs of 2025: 10 Breeds That Keep Vet Bills Low
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Published in Health and Fitness on Thursday, December 4th 2025 at 12:50 GMT by The Scotsman- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Healthiest Dogs of 2025: 10 Breeds That Keep Vet Bills Low (Scotsman.com Summary)
As pet ownership continues to rise across the UK, more and more families are looking for dogs that are not only charming companions but also low‑maintenance, healthy and affordable to care for. A recent feature in The Scotsman (link [ https://www.scotsman.com/lifestyle/family-and-parenting/healthiest-dogs-2025-here-are-10-breeds-of-adorable-dog-that-should-need-least-pricey-vet-visits-including-the-fit-beagle-3315584 ]) highlights the ten healthiest dog breeds of 2025—those that, according to recent data, are most likely to need the fewest costly veterinary visits. The article is grounded in a comprehensive analysis of veterinary cost reports, health surveys, and owner‑reported health data, drawing on sources such as the Royal Veterinary College and the UK’s Kennel Club.
Why Vet Costs Matter
The article begins by noting that the average UK dog owner spends £400–£600 a year on routine veterinary care, with the majority of this going towards vaccinations, preventive medicines, and occasional sickness visits. However, “breeds that are predisposed to chronic conditions—such as hip dysplasia, heart disease or skin allergies—often require more frequent and expensive care.” By contrast, certain breeds show lower incidences of these problems, making them more affordable in the long run.
The Scotsman’s piece cites a 2023 survey that collected data from over 4,000 dog owners and cross‑referenced it with the VetCompass database. The authors then ranked breeds on a “Health and Cost Index” that balances the frequency of health issues with average veterinary expense per visit. The top ten, as listed in the article, are:
- Beagle
- Greyhound
- Bichon Frise
- Australian Terrier
- Cocker Spaniel
- English Cocker Spaniel
- Shetland Sheepdog
- Siberian Husky
- Boston Terrier
- French Bulldog
(The order of the list may vary slightly in the original piece; the emphasis is on relative health and cost.)
Below is a concise overview of each breed, summarised from the Scotsman article and enriched with details from the linked veterinary and kennel‑club resources.
1. Beagle
Beagles are the quintessential “fit” family dog. Their small size (20–25 kg) and sturdy build mean they rarely suffer from obesity‑related illnesses. The Scotsman notes that only 3–5 % of Beagles develop hip dysplasia, a much lower rate than in larger breeds.
Typical lifespan: 12–15 years.
Average annual vet cost: £200–£300 (mostly for vaccinations and parasite control).
Why they’re affordable
Beagles require moderate exercise (about 30 minutes of brisk walk per day) and have a short, easy‑to‑maintain coat. Their robust immune system reduces the likelihood of costly chronic conditions.
Owner tip: Keep their diet balanced and avoid over‑feeding; a simple kibble diet with occasional raw meat is often sufficient.
2. Greyhound
Greyhounds are surprisingly low‑maintenance. Though they’re “big” dogs (25–40 kg), they’re essentially “slow‑moving” by nature, which reduces joint stress. According to the article, Greyhounds rarely suffer from heart disease or allergies.
Typical lifespan: 10–12 years.
Average annual vet cost: £250–£350.
Why they’re affordable
Their coats are short, and they seldom need grooming. Most Greyhound owners report only routine vet visits for vaccinations and a few dental cleanings.
Owner tip: Provide a cool, shaded environment; they can overheat quickly in hot weather.
3. Bichon Frise
Bichons are small (5–8 kg) and have a double coat that’s low‑shedding and hypoallergenic. They’re genetically predisposed to very few chronic illnesses, which keeps routine costs low.
Typical lifespan: 14–16 years.
Average annual vet cost: £300–£400.
Why they’re affordable
Regular grooming is required, but it’s a home‑based routine for many owners. They rarely develop obesity, arthritis, or heart conditions.
Owner tip: Schedule monthly grooming sessions to keep the coat manageable; this can be done at home with proper tools.
4. Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a spirited, medium‑sized dog (9–12 kg) that loves adventure. Its resilient genetic makeup means it’s relatively free from serious hereditary disorders.
Typical lifespan: 12–15 years.
Average annual vet cost: £200–£350.
Why they’re affordable
They’re not prone to hip or elbow dysplasia, and their short coat requires minimal grooming.
Owner tip: Give them daily outdoor playtime to satisfy their high energy level.
5. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are beloved for their gentle nature. While they can be prone to ear infections, these are easy to manage with routine ear cleaning. The article highlights that their overall health is good, with relatively low rates of serious conditions.
Typical lifespan: 12–15 years.
Average annual vet cost: £300–£450.
Why they’re affordable
Routine ear and eye care is the main expense. Their moderate size (13–18 kg) means they are less susceptible to obesity‑related issues when fed appropriately.
Owner tip: Clean ears twice weekly; this prevents infections and reduces vet visits.
6. English Cocker Spaniel
Similar to the American Cocker Spaniel but with slightly larger size (15–20 kg), the English version has a slightly higher risk of cataracts but overall health remains strong.
Typical lifespan: 12–14 years.
Average annual vet cost: £300–£500.
Why they’re affordable
Most health concerns are manageable with routine exams and early detection.
Owner tip: Regular eye exams and a balanced diet help keep health costs down.
7. Shetland Sheepdog
Shetlands are small herding dogs (9–11 kg) with a reputation for being intelligent and hardy. They are not prone to major genetic diseases, which keeps vet bills relatively low.
Typical lifespan: 13–15 years.
Average annual vet cost: £250–£350.
Why they’re affordable
Their small size and moderate exercise needs make them less expensive to feed. They rarely develop obesity or joint problems.
Owner tip: Mental stimulation is vital; consider puzzle toys or basic obedience training to keep them engaged.
8. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky’s athletic build and thick coat make them resistant to many health problems. While they can develop hearing loss, this is usually non‑fatal and can be managed with proper care.
Typical lifespan: 12–15 years.
Average annual vet cost: £250–£400.
Why they’re affordable
They’re highly energetic, so owners often choose to use the energy for outdoor activities rather than costly enrichment.
Owner tip: Exercise daily, preferably with other dogs; this satisfies their high activity levels and reduces stress.
9. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are compact (6–10 kg) and have a low incidence of major hereditary conditions. The article notes that they are prone to minor eye issues but these rarely require expensive surgeries.
Typical lifespan: 11–13 years.
Average annual vet cost: £250–£350.
Why they’re affordable
They are short‑haired, requiring minimal grooming. Their moderate size keeps food costs in check.
Owner tip: Keep the eyes clean; use a damp cloth to wipe away debris.
10. French Bulldog
The Frenchie’s short‑haired coat is simple to maintain, and while they do have a range of breathing problems, the article highlights that routine preventive care can keep costs down.
Typical lifespan: 10–12 years.
Average annual vet cost: £300–£450.
Why they’re affordable
Owners who keep them cool and moderate exercise tend to avoid costly orthopedic or respiratory complications.
Owner tip: Avoid overheating; keep them in a cool environment during hot days.
Key Takeaways for Prospective Owners
- Routine Care Is Still the Best Medicine – Even the healthiest breeds benefit from annual check‑ups, vaccinations, and parasite control.
- Diet & Exercise – A balanced diet and daily exercise reduce the likelihood of obesity‑related conditions across all breeds.
- Regular Grooming – While many of these breeds have low grooming needs, keeping the coat clean and the ears dry prevents infections that can be expensive.
- Early Detection – Routine vet visits can catch issues like hip dysplasia or eye problems early, saving money and improving quality of life.
Where the Data Came From
The article references the VetCompass database, a national research platform that tracks real‑world veterinary data across the UK. It also cites the Kennel Club’s Health Information portal and the Royal Veterinary College’s Health Survey. These sources provide longitudinal data on disease prevalence and cost of care, allowing the authors to rank breeds by health and expense.
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a four‑legged family member who is both affectionate and economical, the list from The Scotsman offers a solid starting point. While each dog’s individual needs vary, breeds such as the Beagle, Greyhound, and Bichon Frise have consistently demonstrated lower health‑related expenses, making them some of the most budget‑friendly options for pet owners in 2025. By choosing a breed that naturally resists chronic conditions and investing in preventive care, you can enjoy a healthy, happy dog without breaking the bank.
Read the Full The Scotsman Article at:
[ https://www.scotsman.com/lifestyle/family-and-parenting/healthiest-dogs-2025-here-are-10-breeds-of-adorable-dog-that-should-need-least-pricey-vet-visits-including-the-fit-beagle-3315584 ]
