Top 6 Health Problems Every Labrador Parent Needs To Know About

All you Labrador parents out there, you already know that your fur kid is the most loyal, devoted, playful and talented fur kid on the planet, right? Well, here are top 6 common health problems that you need to be aware of.

The Joints

A Labrador can suffer from Hip Dysplasia and / or Elbow Dysplasia. Hip Dysplasia is a genetic disorder that signals abnormal hip development and the typical signs are limping or bunny hopping. Treatment includes therapy and / or surgery. As for Elbow Dysplasia, it’s a malformation of the elbow joints that can cause osteoarthritis and requires surgery.

The Eyes

These fur balls can suffer from Cataracts, Retina Dysplasia and Progressive Retinal Atropy (PRA). While surgery may help cute cataract, there’s currently no cure for Retinal Dysplasia and the best way to help your fur ball suffering from Retinal Dysplasia is to develop regular routes for exercise and maintain a constant environment. As for PRA, fur kids may go completely blind when they’re 4 and there’s no cure for this.

The Nervous System

Labradors can suffer from Hereditary Myopathy and / or Epilepsy. Pups suffering from Hereditary Myopathy should not be exposed to cold as it aggravates their symptoms. Keeping warm will prove beneficial. As for Epilepsy, there are medications to keep the seizures under control.

Circulatory Problem

Labrador pups can suffer from Pulmonic Stenosis and Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia, both diseases related to the heart and its functions. While there is treatment for Pulmonic Stenosis that includes medicine and surgery, there isn’t one for Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia.

Endocrine Diseases

This includes hypothyroidism and diabetes. Both can be managed with medications

Other Health Problems

These include Bloat, Laryngeal Paralysis and Cancer. According to DogzHealth.com, for Laryngeal Paralysis “Signs include a croupy or “roaring” noise as the dog inhales, a progressive weakening of the bark, labored breathing, exercise intolerance, and fainting spells. In severe cases, the dog can develop cyanosis (a blue color to the gums) from lack of oxygen. He may collapse and even die.” Thankfully this may be treated by medications or if severe, by surgery.

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