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Top 7 Health Concerns in Labrador Retrievers

Updated On December 22nd, 2014

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Reviewed By Dana Koch, VMD, MLAS

Labrador Retrievers are one of the most common breeds of dogs that have found their place as our beloved companions.

Although classified as working dogs, Labradors are generally known for their loyalty, playfulness and gentleness of temperament.

If you are the proud owner of a Labrador Retriever, these are the most common health concerns you should be familiar with:

Hip Dysplasia

Similar to many large breed dogs, Labrador Retrievers have a predisposition to this condition of the hip joint.

Hip dysplasia often contributes to early signs of arthritis, such as limping or painfulness when going up or down stairs. Many breeders will have their Labrador Retrievers certified through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals to ensure hip dysplasia is not present.

Laryngeal Paralysis

This condition is caused by a change in the muscles found either within or surrounding the larynx. Laryngeal paralysis causes an impairment or restriction of airflow through the larynx.

Common clinical signs include a change in the dog’s bark (often reported as a honking sound), increased respiratory effort or breathing sounds, coughing and exercise intolerance.

Arthritis

Arthritis is frequently observed in older Labrador Retrievers, due to their size and strain on their joints.

It is very important to keep your Labrador at a healthy weight, through exercise and proper feeding, in order to help delay the onset of arthritis.

Your veterinarian can prescribe supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, and medications to alleviate the clinical signs related to arthritis. Your veterinarian can also advise whether surgical or medical management should be pursued if your dog suffers from arthritis.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder that results from a lowered production and release of T4 and T3 hormones by the thyroid gland.

Clinical signs frequently reported include weight gain, hair loss, cold intolerance and lethargy. Diagnosis of this condition is usually achieved through blood testing and medical therapy is the most common treatment option, utilizing a synthetic hormone to replace the body’s lack of adequate thyroid hormones.

Elbow Dysplasia

This condition is usually present since birth and diagnosed early in life.

It is caused by abnormal growth and development of the elbow joint, which leads to lameness in the forelimbs, pain when flexing the elbow, possible joint effusion and diminished range of motion.

Treatment for elbow dysplasia depends on several factors, including the dog’s age and degree of dysplasia. Surgery and physical therapy are often recommended to facilitate healing and alleviate the dog’s pain.

Seizures

Labrador Retrievers are somewhat predisposed to suffer from seizures.

There are different underlying causes for this condition, such as masses in the brain, electrolyte or metabolic disturbances in the body, and exposure to certain toxins.

Keep in mind that if your veterinarian is unable to determine the underlying cause of your dog's seizures, your dog may be diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy, which means that the origin of the seizure activity is unknown.

Cancer

According to the Veterinary Cancer Center, cancer is the number one natural cause of death in cats and dogs. It accounts for nearly 50 percent of pet deaths each year. This statistic is scary, but advancements in the veterinary field have made new treatment and therapies possible in recent years.

Some of the most common cancers diagnosed in Labrador Retrievers include osteosarcoma (bone cancer), lymphoma and mast cell tumors.

If your dog is experiencing any abnormal clinical signs, such as weight loss, lack of appetite, vomiting and development of lumps on the body, a veterinary visit would be recommended.

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