Top 10 dogs of 2024.

Australians love dogs, and last year, they loved these 10 breeds above all others, according to PetSure policy data for dogs born in 2024. In PetSure's Pet Health Monitor 2025, the top three conditions affecting dogs of all ages were gastrointestinal issues, ear infections and skin allergies. In this section, we've highlighted the prevalence of these top conditions for each breed - including the percentage that claimed for each condition - plus, we've identified other breed-specific health issues the breed claimed for more frequently compared to other breeds.

Knowing breed insights can help you stay informed when it comes to your pet's health - whether it's spotting symptoms early, understanding potential risks or knowing what questions to ask your vet.

Below is a limited summary only based on PetSure's Pet Health Monitor 2025. 

As you’ll read later in this report, the top three conditions affecting dogs of all ages were ear infections, skin allergies and gastroenteritis. In this section, we’ve highlighted the prevalence of these top conditions for each breed - including  the percentage that claimed for each condition - plus, we’ve identified other breed-specific health issues the breed claimed for more frequently compared to other breeds.

1. Cavoodle.

Cavoodles are prone to gastrointestinal issues and anal sac disorders, which occur approximately 25% more frequently than in other dogs. They are also twice as likely to develop mitral valve disease (MVD), possibly due to the genetic predisposition from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel in their lineage. Regular heart health monitoring is essential for early detection and management of this condition.

Percentage of Cavoodles who claimed for these conditions in 2024:*

Ear Infections: 12.3%

Skin Allergies: 12.1%

Gastroenteritis: 12.7%

Learn more about the Cavoodle dog breed

Cavoodle
Mini Dachshund

2. Dachshund (miniature).

Miniature Dachshunds are significantly more prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and spinal issues - about 4.8 times more likely than other dogs due to their long body structure. They're also more likely to experience lameness and back pain. To help prevent these issues, owners should avoid excessive jumping and strain, keep up with vet check-ups, and maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise.

Percentage of Miniature Dachshunds who claimed for these conditions in 2024:*

Ear Infections: 4.9%

Skin Allergies: 10.7%

Gastroenteritis: 9.1%

Learn more about the Mini Dachshund dog breed

3. Golden Retriever.

Golden Retrievers are particularly susceptible to skin, ear, eye, and digestive issues. Their long ears trap moisture, inviting infections, while loose skin and droopy eyelids make them sensitive to wind, dust, and pollen, increasing the risk of eye problems. They're also more than twice as likely as other dogs to develop hip dysplasia, leading to joint pain and mobility issues. Plus, their habit of swallowing foreign objects often causes digestive trouble and emergency vet visits.

Percentage of Golden Retrievers who claimed for these conditions in 2024:*

Ear Infections: 14.8%

Skin Allergies: 16.9%

Gastroenteritis: 13.3%

Learn more about the Golden Retriever dog breed

Golden Retriever
Labrador

4. Labrador.

Labradors are overtly vulnerable to skin and ear issues and have a 50% higher risk of developing mass lesions, especially mast cell tumors. Their curious nature and eating habits often lead to swallowing foreign objects. They're also about 1.6 times more likely to develop lameness and arthritis, driven by genetics and weight. To help reduce these risks, owners should focus on maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise and good nutrition.

Percentage of Labradors who claimed for these conditions in 2024:*

Ear Infections: 15.8%

Skin Allergies: 16.2%

Gastroenteritis: 9.9%

Learn more about the Labrador dog breed

5. French Bulldog.

French Bulldogs are especially prone to skin and ear issues - twice as likely as the average dog. Their flat faces and small nostrils put them at high risk for brachyocephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), making respiratory problems more than 17 times more likely. They're also five times more likely to develop intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and 2.5 times more likely to experience patella luxation. Due to these risks - especially IVDD and BOAS - owners should monitor excessive exercise and breathing, avoid overexertion (particularly in warm, humid weather) and ensure regular vet visits.

Percentage of French Bulldogs who claimed for these conditions in 2024:*

Ear Infections: 16.7%

Skin Allergies: 30.3%

Gastroenteritis: 12.8%

Learn more about the French Bulldog dog breed

French Bulldog
Groodle

6. Groodle.

Groodles are more likely to experience skin and ear conditions. Ear issues are nearly twice as common as in the average dog, likely due to their coat type and floppy ears. They're also slightly more prone to gastrointestinal problems and have a higher chance of developing eye and eyelid issues, including conjunctivitis. Given these risks - especially with skin and ear conditions - Groodle owners should stay on top of grooming, ear care, regular vet visits and overall health monitoring to catch issues early.

Percentage of Groodles who claimed for these conditions in 2024:*

Ear Infections: 20.8%

Skin Allergies: 16.2%

Gastroenteritis: 11%

Learn more about the Groodle dog breed

7. Border Collie.

Border Collies are generally a robust and healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. While their risk for hip dysplasia is relatively low, it's slightly higher than the average (0.5%) at 0.7%. They're also considered more likely to develop arthritis as they age. Regular exercise, a healthy weight and watching for signs of discomfort are key to managing these conditions and keeping your Border Collie healthy.

Percentage of Border Collies who claimed for these conditions in 2024:*

Ear Infections: 4.5%

Skin Allergies: 8.1%

Gastroenteritis: 8.6%

Learn more about the Border Collie dog breed

Border Collie
Staffy

8. Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are highly prone to skin conditions, with a risk 1.8 times higher than the average dog. They are also more likely to experience lameness (1.3 times higher) and arthritis (1.3 times higher). Additionally, Staffordshire Bull Terriers are at an increased risk for cruciate ligament issues. Owners should prioritise joint health, including regular appropriate exercise, and ensure regular veterinary check-ups to manage these risks.

Percentage of Staffies who claimed for these conditions in 2024:*

Ear Infections: 13%

Skin Allergies: 26%

Gastroenteritis: 9.2%

Learn more about the Staffy dog breed

9. Dachshund (standard).

Dachshunds are highly susceptible to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and spinal issues, with their risk being 4.5 times higher than the average dog. This significantly increased risk is due to their long body structure and short legs, which place additional strain on the spine. As a result, they are more prone to spinal disc degeneration and herniation, leading to pain, mobility issues, and potential paralysis in severe cases.

Percentage of Dachshunds who claimed for these conditions in 2024:*

Ear Infections: 5%

Skin Allergies: 11.3%

Gastroenteritis: 8.7%

Learn more about the Dachshund dog breed

Dachshund
German Shepherd

10. German Shepherd.

German Shepherds are more prone to certain health issues than the average dog, especially skin conditions, with a 1.2 times higher risk. They also face a much higher chance of hip dysplasia (3 times more likely) and arthritis (1.5 times more likely), likely due to breed disposition. While gastrointestinal and ear issues are less common, owners should focus on joint health, good nutrition, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular vet check-ups to help manage these conditions.

Percentage of German Shepherds who claimed for these conditions in 2024:*

Ear Infections: 11.2%

Skin Allergies: 18.3%

Gastroenteritis: 8.2%

Learn more about the German Shepherd dog breed

* These insights are based on aggregated insurance PetSure claims data from 2024 and reflect the conditions reported in insured pets over a 12-month period. They are not predictive of  individual outcomes and should not be used as a substitute for veterinary advice. Sample sizes vary by breed and are noted for context, but results may not be representative of all pets within a breed.

Learn more about the top 10 health conditions in dogs by cost.

When it comes to pet health, some conditions can come with a surprisingly high cost. Learn more about the top 10 health conditions in dogs by cost based on PetSure's Pet Health Monitor 2025.

Learn more
dog in vet

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* These insights are based on aggregated insurance PetSure claims data from 2024 and reflect the conditions reported in insured pets over a 12-month period. They are not predictive of  individual outcomes and should not be used as a substitute for veterinary advice. Sample sizes vary by breed and are noted for context, but results may not be representative of all pets within a breed.

You should consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement or policy wording available from the relevant provider. Please note that values calculated are based on all claims for that condition and medically related conditions in each calendar year.

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† Offer available to new Everyday Pet Insurance policyholders, and is limited to 1 membership per eligible policy. The free membership offer (valued at $199p.a) is from the date of your policy commencement, provided your Everyday Pet Insurance policy remains active. You are not eligible to redeem the free membership subscription for cash or credit. VetAssist is a separate subscription based service to the Everyday Pet Insurance product, and is provided independently by Everyday Insurance third party service provider, VetChat Services Pty Ltd (VetChat). Click here for full VetAssist Service terms and conditions. Everyday Insurance reserves the right to vary or remove this offer at any time and will provide reasonable notice of any such changes.

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= The gap is defined as the difference between the vet's invoice and the claim benefit under your policy. Policy terms and conditions apply. GapOnly® is only available at participating Vets. Please visit GapOnly® to search for GapOnly® enabled vets. GapOnly® is a trademark owned by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd (PetSure) (ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183).

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** Offer is valid until 31 December 2025 (Offer Period). This entitles you to a 30% discount off your prescription medication purchase from PetScripts Pty Ltd ABN 73 610 444 427 (PetScripts) whilst your policy remains in force during the Offer Period and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. This offer only applies to medication prescribed to the pet insured under Everyday Pet Insurance Policies. Services provided by PetScripts are separate to your pet insurance policy. The 30% discount offer is subject to PetScripts' general Terms and Conditions, including the Privacy Policy which are available online at www.petscripts.com.au. Everyday Pet Insurance may withdraw or extend this offer at any time without notice.

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