Do Labrador Retrievers have health issues?
Labrador Retrievers are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to a few health issues, including:
- Hip and/or Elbow Dysplasia: Hip and elbow dysplasia are two of the most common skeletal diseases seen in dogs. They are similar diseases in which either the hip or elbow joint has grown abnormally or is misshapen. The abnormal shape prevents the joints and sockets from adequately meeting one another, resulting in rubbing and grinding instead of sliding smoothly.
- Patellar luxation: Also known as slipped kneecaps, patellar luxation is a common problem in many dog breeds. It occurs when slight abnormalities cause the knee joint to slide in and out of place, and can cause pain and occasional lameness. Surgical treatment is available for severe cases, although many dogs lead normal lives without treatment.
- Portosystemic Liver Shunt: Portosystemic shunt (PSS) is a hereditary issue that obstructs proper blood flow to the liver. Since the liver is responsible for detoxifying the body, PSS sends the toxins in unfiltered blood to the heart, brain, and other body parts. Signs can include, but are not limited to, behavioral changes, loss of appetite, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), jaundice, urinary tract problems, vision problems, and stunted growth. PSS can be life-threatening if not treated early. Antibiotics and diet changes can help in the short term, but surgery is the only permanent treatment for the problem.
- Eye Issues: Labrador Retrievers are prone to cataracts and Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Cataracts is a common eye condition that causes cloudiness in the eye and obstructs vision, while PRA is a progressive degenerative disease affecting the retina that eventually leads to blindness.
- Obesity: Due to a specific gene mutation, Labrador Retrievers are more likely to become obese than any other breed. Labs love eating and are prone to becoming overweight if their portion sizes and exercise routines are not properly controlled.
- Others: Because floppy-eared breeds do not drain water effectively, they can be prone to ear infections. Labrador Retrievers are also susceptible to cancer. A veterinarian may recommend joint and eye tests to identify some of these issues.