Thinking about getting a pooch, but unsure what breed is right for you? Veterinarian Ben has shared five ‘robust’ dog breeds he would personally own, including a ‘super gentle’ type you’ve probably never even considered
Life is just better with a dog, even when they do shred up your brand new blanket and eat your socks. But finding the right breed for you can be an arduous task – one that takes time, plenty of research, and the ability to tune out everyone’s unwanted opinion of what pooch they think you should get.
Parents introducing a furry friend into the home should be extra cautious, and preferable go for dogs with a calm temperament. Of course, obedience training, proper exercise, and the right diet can improve any dog’s behaviour and attitude – there are certain breeds that tend to be a little more zen and laid-back in general. Perhaps it’s genetics, perhaps they’re just lazy.
Veterinarian Ben (aka Ben the Vet on TikTok) has recently revealed five dog breeds he would personally get after coming across most types at his work. “Now I’m definitely not telling everyone to go out and get these five dog breeds,” he clarified. “I’m also not saying these are the five healthiest possible dog breeds, because every dog breed has some issues that they’re prone to.”
5 vet-approved dog breeds
Greyhound
With their slinky frame and slightly nervous disposition, Greyhounds might not seem like a dog you can cuddle on the sofa, but Ben says they’re ‘really gentle’ breeds and are worth considering. “There are so many of them leading homes after their racing career’s end,” he added.
“They are unfortunately renowned for having very bad teeth, so I’d put in the effort from the beginning to get them used to having their teeth brushed. They’ll happily plod along on a walk but they like the opportunity to sprint around so I’d make sure that I give them that time and opportunity.”
Border Terrier
This no-frills pooch is the kind your kid would draw if you asked them for a painting of a dog. They’re Ben’s ‘top choice’ if he was going to get a small breed and are known for being ‘quite affectionate’.
“Their physical appearance isn’t exaggerated in any way and on the whole they tend to be quite robust health wise,” the pro said. “Although, like all breeds, there are some issues they’re prone to as such as luxating patellas [a dislocated kneecap].” Ben warned anyone thinking of getting a Border Terrier to check whether the dog’s parents have a history of ill health.
Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla
From afar, you could end up mistaking this dog for a Lab. Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla aren’t very common in the UK, and you’ve probably never heard of them.
“I just have found that the ones that have met tend to have a really lovely temperament,” Ben said. He also hailed the breed for not having an ‘exaggerated’ appearance but did warn they can be prone to some joint issues such as hip dysplasia. that again moderate and unexaggerated in their appearance. “I would definitely ask if the parents have been hip scored,” he added. “They do need lots and lots of exercise and stimulation, so I would only get one if I had time to take them out for two long walks everyday.”
Labrador
A family classic, labradors are known for being gentle, affectionate, and loyal (and adorable). “I’m slightly conflicted about them because they are unfortunately genetically prone to quite a few different problems,” Ben added.
He pointed out that many Labs suffer with their joints, so advised checking to see if the parents have been hip and elbow scored, as well as enquiring about any inherited eye issues. “They also very prone to getting fat so I’d be extremely careful to keep them trim,” Ben added.
Mongrel
Despite their bad reps, a proper mongrel could be an ideal choice for those not wanting to constantly fret over vet bills. You might not be able to predict their activity levels and temperament etc due to not knowing what breeds they’re made up of, but they’re less prone to diseases by ‘virtue of being less inbred’. “For me as a vet, that’s really important,” Ben added.
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