6 Common Health Conditions In Labrador Retrievers

Taking care of your dog’s unique and specific medical needs is important to ensuring a long and healthy life. Depending on the breed of your dog, there are different factors to look out for and give extra care to.

Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in the world, so many dog parents need to know what to look out for. Here are six common health conditions that labs may develop.

1. Bloat

Many deep-chested breeds of dogs are at risk of this emergency gastrointestinal syndrome. Learn more about this potentially fatal condition here and learn how to prevent it here.

2. Orthopedic issues

Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, mainly genetic conditions that cause affected to joints to deform and resulting in pain and even lameness, are highly common in Labradors. Most vets recommend putting labs on a preventative hip & joint supplement like this once they are fully grown. Learn more about hip dysplasia here and find out how to prevent and/or manage it here. Labs may also suffer from luxating patella, another orthopaedic issue, and other similar conditions.

3. Eye disorders

Labs have a higher chance of contracting progressive retinal atrophy at ages 4-8, retinal dysplasia in puppyhood, eyelid abnormalities, and cataracts. Learn more about these and other eye-related illnesses here.

4. Heart disease

This has become a great concern in the Labrador world, especially in relation to tricuspid valve dysplasia, which is a congenital heart defect. Dogs who are developing the condition may show signs of right-sided heart failure in the form of exercise intolerance, fluid retention, and cold limbs.

5. Weakness

Field or hunting Labradors, especially puppies, may experience a string of tiredness that seems strange at first. After some time out hunting, they may display signs of severe exhaustion and collapsing. If your dog has this, then let them rest before continuing.

6. Cancers and tumors

An increasing number of cases of mast cell tumors, digital squamous cell carcinoma, histiocytic sarcoma, and mast cell tumors are popping up in this breed of dog. As such, regular checkups are required by your vet, and you should contact them if you spot lumps or bumps, or notice odd behavior or sickness.

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