Do Labradoodles have health issues?

• Hip dysplasia: This is a common orthopedic condition in Labradoodles where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to joint instability and potential arthritis.

• Elbow dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is a developmental abnormality affecting the elbow joint, leading to lameness, pain, and arthritis.

• Sebaceous adenitis: This rare skin condition affects the skin glands of young and middle-aged dogs. It can cause hair loss, skin lesions, bacterial infections, scaling of the skin (dandruff), and odor along the hairline. Symptoms can vary slightly among long-coated and short-coated breeds. Veterinarians may suggest a combination of oils, shampoos, antibacterials, and other medications to help relieve symptoms.

• Addison’s disease: Addison’s disease, also known as hypoadrenocorticism, is caused by a malfunction in the hormone production of the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are small glands near the kidneys and are responsible for various body functions, such as controlling salt, sugar, and water balance in the body. In Addison’s disease, the body is unable to create create enough cortisol. Without cortisol, a dog cannot manage stress or digest food properly. Dogs with Addison’s disease may suffer from weakness, an abnormally fast heart rate, depression, loss of appetite, diarrhea, excessive thirst, and urination. Your vet can test your Doodle to detect Addison’s disease and provide long-term medication.

• Exercise-induced collapse (EIC): This is a hereditary condition observed in some Labradoodles, characterized by sudden loss of muscle control and weakness after intense exercise or excitement.

• Allergies: Labradoodles may be prone to skin allergies, including atopic dermatitis and food allergies, which can cause itching, irritation, and skin infections if not managed properly.