Labrador Retriver

Labrador Retrievers are typically healthy, although, like all breeds, they are susceptible to some health issues. Not all Labs will contract any or all of these diseases, but you should be aware of them if you are contemplating this breed.

Hip dysplasia is a heritable disorder in which the thighbone does not fit properly into the hip joint. Some dogs experience pain and lameness in one or both of their back legs, but a dog with hip dysplasia may not exhibit any signs of discomfort. Arthritis in dogs can occur as they get older. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals and the University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program provide X-ray screening for hip dysplasia. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred.

Elbow Dysplasia is a heritable disorder that affects large-breed dogs. It is believed to be caused by differences in the growth rates of the three bones that comprise the dog’s elbow, resulting in joint laxity. This can cause painful lameness. Your veterinarian may offer surgery to repair the condition or pain medication to alleviate the symptoms.

Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD) is an orthopedic condition caused by abnormal cartilage formation in the joints. It typically affects the elbows, although it has also been reported in the shoulders. It causes a painful joint hardening, leaving the dog unable to flex his elbow. It can be diagnosed in canines as young as four to nine months of age. Overfeeding with “growth formula” puppy diets or high-protein foods may aid in its development.

Canine cataracts, like those in people, are characterized by foggy patches on the eye lens that can increase over time. They can form at any age and rarely affect vision, though some cases result in significant vision loss. A board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist should evaluate breeding dogs to ensure they are clear of genetic eye disease before breeding. Cataracts are frequently surgically removed with favorable results.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a group of eye illnesses in which the retina gradually deteriorates. Early in the condition, dogs develop night blindness. As the condition develops, people also lose their daytime vision. Many canines may adjust to limited or complete visual loss if their surroundings remain unchanged.

Epilepsy: Labs can develop epilepsy, which results in moderate or severe seizures. Seizures might be characterized by strange behavior, such as fleeing frantically as if pursued, staggering, or hiding. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term outlook for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is often favorable. It’s crucial to remember that seizures can be caused by a variety of factors other than idiopathic epilepsy, including metabolic abnormalities, infectious diseases of the brain, tumors, poison exposure, severe head injuries, and more. As a result, if your Lab experiences seizures, you should take them to the vet right once for a checkup.

Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia (TVD) is a congenital cardiac abnormality becoming increasingly common in the Labrador breed. Puppies are born with tricuspid valve dysplasia, an abnormality of the right side of the heart. It might be minor or severe; some dogs experience no symptoms, while others die. TVD is discovered via ultrasonography. Research is ongoing to determine how common it is in the breed, as well as therapeutic options.

Myopathy affects both the muscles and the neurological system. The initial indicators appear as early as six weeks and frequently by seven months of age. A puppy with myopathy is tired and stiff as he walks or trots. He may collapse following exercise. The muscles atrophy over time, and the dog cannot stand or move normally. There is no cure; however, resting and keeping the dog warm alleviates symptoms. Dogs with myopathy should not be bred because it is a heritable condition.

Gastric Dilataion-Volvulus: Also known as bloat, this is a life-threatening illness that affects large, deep-chested dogs like Labs, mainly if they are fed one large meal per day, eat quickly, drink a lot of water, or run intensely after eating. Bloat happens when the stomach expands with gas or air and twists. The dog cannot belch or vomit to get rid of the excess air in their stomach, and blood flow to the heart is slowed. Blood pressure drops, and the dog goes into shock. Without prompt medical intervention, the dog may die. If your dog has a swollen abdomen, drools excessively, and retches without throwing up, they may have bloat. They may also be restless, melancholy, lazy, and feeble, with a fast heartbeat. If you observe these signs in your dog, immediately take him to the vet.

Acute Moist Dermatitis is a skin ailment characterized by redness and inflammation. A bacterial infection causes it. This health condition is most commonly referred to as hot spots. The treatment includes trimming the hair, soaking in medicated shampoo, and antibiotics.

Cold tail is a benign but painful illness that affects Labradors and other retrievers. It also creates a limber tail, causing the dog’s tail to become limp. The dog may bite at its tail. It is not a cause for concern and usually resolves itself in a few days. It is assumed to be an issue with the muscles connecting the vertebrae in the tail. 

Ear Infections: The Lab’s love of water, paired with its drop ear, renders them susceptible to ear infections. Infection can be avoided by inspecting and cleaning weekly, as needed.