About Breed Health Score
Breed Health Score is an independent, data-led project that turns veterinary research into a single, comparable health score for every dog breed. The goal is simple: help people understand, before they choose a breed, how long it typically lives and what health problems it is prone to.
Where the data comes from
Median lifespans come from McMillan, K.M. et al. (2024) "Longevity of companion dog breeds", Scientific Reports (584,734 UK dogs). Data CC-BY 4.0. A peer-reviewed study published under an open licence, so we can show and cite it transparently. Breed conformation and hereditary-condition associations are compiled from RVC VetCompass, the AKC, PDSA and the UK Kennel Club. Photos are from Pexels.
How we stay independent
Each score is calculated from published data by a transparent, published method, not opinion or sponsorship. Where the site earns money (for example, pet-insurance referrals) it never changes a breed's score. See our affiliate disclosure.
Important. Our scores are independent estimates for comparing breeds, not veterinary advice. Always speak to a vet about your individual dog. A median lifespan is a population figure, not a prediction for one dog.