Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Sometimes your dog may require surgery to remove bone chips or cartilage. In this guide, we take a look at 7 of the most common health issues that affect Labradors and what you can do to prevent them becoming a problem for your pooch. However, with recent developments in treatments, cancer is not the death sentence it once was. Being overweight can increase your Labs chances of developing heart disease and other medical issues and can create more stress on his joints. In dogs with this disorder, the retina develops folds instead of forming a thin membrane at the back of the eye. Most dogs adapt to their disability over time, especially if their life is settled and their environment is consistent. He will seem to lose control of his rear legs. Your dog may bump into things or startle easily as he isnt as aware of his surroundings. Hepatitis is usually diagnosed through blood testing or liver biopsy, and can be treated with medication and special diets. These conditions range from mild annoyances through to life-threatening emergencies, so its important that you can recognize the telltale symptoms and know how to keep your dog safe. Heart disease is quite common in dogs, especially in older ones. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Exercise. This condition is caused by growth abnormalities in the elbow joint. We know that because you care so much about your dog, you want to take good care of her. If you are following a recommended amount from your vet, then he is getting all the nutrients he needs. EIC is genetic and can be identified through genetic testing. Click on one of the Share Links below to share it with a friend. Always walk your Lab on a leash as she has a tendency to run off after interesting smells and people. If you ask any Labrador pet parent what their dog loves most in the world, the answer will be simple: food. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Common among puppies, pica is also closely associated with the Labrador and a handful of other breeds. And dog obesity is a serious problem. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. Labradors are known for their somewhat large, floppy ears- its one of the features that makes them so adorable. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite, and reduced activity level followed later by a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss. He will usually recover somewhere between 5-20 minutes. Exercise-Induced Collapse, or EIC, seems to occur more often in younger, energetic dogs. Wobbler disease is the result of a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck that pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. Labrador Retrievers are the most popular dog breed in the United States and its pretty easy to see why! if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'lovingyourlab_com-leader-3','ezslot_12',126,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-lovingyourlab_com-leader-3-0')}; The exact cause for bloat isnt known. A condition that typically affects large and giant breeds, hip dysplasia is a deformity that occurs when the ball and socket of the hip joint dont develop properly. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. Mild exercise, like walking and swimming, can help improve strength and keep the joints flexible. There are eye exams that can detect this condition. Dental disease is the most common chronic problem in pets, affecting 80% of all dogs by age two. This can cause hip dysplasia or, if the condition is already present, make it worse. In fact, your Lab's life span may even be cut short by one to three years! This will keep her out of trouble and away from objects she shouldnt put in her mouth. Your vet may administer treatments to keep the dog hydrated and to relieve the gas in order to keep the bloat from worsening. Retinal Dysplasia is more common than PRA and is also inherited. Genetic testing can be done to diagnose this disease and to screen dogs before breeding. However, in rare cases, the dog has died from this condition. There is no cure for Retinal Dysplasia but the disease is not painful or life-threatening.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'lovingyourlab_com-banner-1','ezslot_3',122,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-lovingyourlab_com-banner-1-0')}; Joint problems, like hip and elbow dysplasia, are common in Labradors. If your dog is obese he has a greater chance of being affected. These tumors commonly form in the spleen, but can form in other organs as well. There are several medications that your vet can prescribe to reduce the pain. In some cases, surgery is required to remove the offending item. This would occur after a cold bath or swim, and sometimes it even occurs if they have been working hard and wagging their tail a lot. Experts dont know for sure what causes it but it seems to be a type of muscle strain in the tail. The tear must be repaired through surgery and recovery time usually lasts 6-12 weeks. While Labs are prone to a few health problems, theyre generally considered to be a hardy breed. About 20% of all adult dogs have some degree of arthritis. The most common heart disease in Labs is Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia (TVD). There is currently no cure for this but your vet may prescribe diuretics to help relieve fluid retention. We are still learning so much about the different diseases and disorders that our pets contract that is difficult to say for certain one way or the other. Weve created this website, put in the research, done the legwork, and made the mistakes so that you dont have to! That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Labrador. Obesity can be a significant health problem in Labrador Retrievers. When given plenty of vigorous exercise and attention, these sweethearts are gentle and well-behaved in the home. However, those large ears are also more susceptible to ear infections. Cataracts. If you suspect that your Lab may have bloat, take him to the vet immediately. This is a congenital condition and usually affects males. Giving your pet plenty of exercise and mental stimulation can help reduce undesirable behaviors, while you should also restrict your Labs access to those inedible items they like to consume. If your Lab is a little on the portly side, speak to your vet about the safest way to help your pup get back to a healthy weight range. While the exact cause of bloat is a mystery, it occurs when the stomach fills with gas and sometimes twists, cutting off blood flow. This is when well give her the necessary check-ups and test for diseases and conditions that are common in Labradors. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Address: 10 Sunset RoadBelle Mead, NJ, 08502. Joint problems have also been shown to be prevalent in Labs, and every Labrador lover should be well aware of the danger posed by hip dysplasia. Responsible breeders screen their dogs for hip dysplasia before using them in any breeding programs. If the immune system destroys red blood cells, your dog quickly becomes anemic, weak, and lethargic. Maintaining a healthy weight. Your Labs gorgeous floppy ears have a tendency to trap moisture and dirt in the ear canal. Any breed can be affected, but Labs have an above average incidence. His gums will look whitish or yellow instead of a normal bright pink color. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. This information helps you and us together plan for your pets unique medical needs. Both American and English ancestries present all three color versionsblack, blonde, and brown. Treatment options include medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery. Cushing's Disease is a malfunction of the adrenal glands that causes them to produce too much steroid hormone. The cranial cruciate ligament is one of four tough bands of tissue that hold each knee together. This worrying condition causes dogs to eat inedible objects this could mean socks, underwear, trash, rocks, and all manner of non-food items. Physical therapy and multimodal pain management are necessary for the best outcomes. These folds create blind spots. Being overweight or obese places extra strain on your dogs joints. These supplements can help you Lab heal himself. Luckily, it is one of the easiest problems to manage. The first indications of this disorder are a heart murmur and signs of congestive heart failure. Make sure he eats healthy food, drinks lots of water, and gets plenty of exercise. While this helps make them very easy to train, it also puts them at a higher risk of becoming overweight or obese. Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a chronic liver disease called hepatitis that may develop around middle age. Labrador Retrievers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as GDV or bloat, usually occurs in dogs with deep, narrow chests. Labs can be over-eaters so dont let him fool you into thinking hes starving. In fact, dogs are three times more likely to develop cancer than humans. These disorders affect the joints and can cause pain, making it difficult for your Lab to move normally. Your vet can prescribe medication to clear the infection up. There are many diseases that can now be cured or treated that previously meant death for dogs. It also seems that dogs who tear one ACL eventually end up tearing the other. If you think your Lab has an ear infection take him to your vet to get diagnosed. We call this skin allergy atopy, and Labradors often have it. Well take. This affects the outer ear canal and can produce the following symptoms: If you notice any of these symptoms, get your dog to the vet for a full examination and treatment. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'lovingyourlab_com-mobile-leaderboard-2','ezslot_17',130,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-lovingyourlab_com-mobile-leaderboard-2-0')};Cold Water Tail is also known by a few other names, such as limber tail, dead tail, and broken tail. This site is owned and operated by Tim & Dona Baker. Give us a call for an appointment if you notice any of these types of signs: Seek medical care immediately if you notice any of these types of signs: Visit our office to get the latest in top-quality veterinary care along with unparalleled service. Keeping your Lab healthy and slim will help prevent him from developing diabetes and can help ease any pain he feels with his arthritis or dysplasia issues. Just like hip dysplasia, its one of the conditions that the Labrador Retriever Club, Inc recommends breeders test their dogs for. Other allergies are harder to deal with. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. And if you can provide all the care your pup needs to stay happy and healthy, you can look forward to many more years with your Lab by your side. Reactive seizures are caused by the brain's reaction to a metabolic problem like low blood sugar, organ failure, or a toxin. The Labrador Retriever is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of 11-13 years. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. The most common type of arthritis in dogs is osteoarthritis. Panosteitis usually appears as lameness in one of the forelegs and then may transfer to the other leg the following day. One of the best things you can do for your Labrador is to have her spayed (neutered for males). Labs are friendly, affectionate, and outgoing dogs, and they make wonderful family pets. These exams are best performed on puppies at 14 weeks of age. The scratching can sometimes lead to secondary infections that require their own treatment. Treatment usually includes oral medications and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. When we say we feel bloated we are usually just uncomfortable and we know the symptoms will soon pass. Another option is a triple pelvic osteotomy. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Labs with the severe form will often develop congestive heart failure. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Tartar build-up, bad breath, red gums, or broken teeth, Itchy skin (scratching, chewing, or licking); hair loss, Lethargy, mental dullness, or excessive sleeping, Fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes, Swollen lymph nodes or glands, unexplained weight loss, Drinks and urinates more, eats more; potbelly, poor haircoat, Slow or stunted growth; sometimes seizes after eating, Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge, Inability or straining to urinate; discolored urine, Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes, Dry heaving or a large, tight, painful abdomen, Bruises easily or bleeds a lot even from small wounds, Gums that are a color other than bright pink, Pale gums, labored breathing, weakness, or sudden collapse, Any abnormal shaking, trembling, or excessive involuntary tremors, Tiring easily, coughing, a swollen belly or fainting/collapse, Leg stiffness; reluctance to rise, sit, use stairs, run, or jump; bunny hopping. Signs of this condition often appear between four and ten months of age, but it can appear in later years as well. Note the length of the seizure, and call us at 908-332-5057 or call an emergency hospital. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. This disorder occurs when the layers of the retina do not form properly. Feed your Lab puppy a food specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of large-breed puppies. Sometimes they can even be caused by a combination of the two. PRA refers to a group of hereditary disorders that cause the retinal tissue to degenerate. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. You may also see these traits: Loyal and lively, these water-loving dogs make exceptional family members and hunting partners. Labrador Retrievers (Breed Info, History, and Tips), 19 Foods You Had No Idea Could Harm Your Labrador, How to Exercise a Labrador Puppy: A Complete Guide. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'lovingyourlab_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_5',118,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-lovingyourlab_com-medrectangle-3-0')}; Common signs to watch for are abnormal swellings that continue to grow, any strange bleeding or discharges, difficulty breathing, difficulty relieving himself, loss of appetite or difficulty eating, persistent limping or loss of stamina, sores that wont heal, weight loss, and a strong offensive odor from his mouth. Many diseases and health conditions are genetic, meaning they are related to your pets breed. This is caused by damaged cartilage. After a few minutes, the weakness passes and he is able to get up again. If his stomach has already twisted then surgery is necessary to save the dog. With diligent observation at home and knowledge about the diseases that may affect your friend's bones, joints, or muscles, you will be able to take great care of him throughout his life. To check for this problem, well conduct a liver function test in addition to a standard pre-anesthetic panel every time he undergoes anesthesia. Dont worry; well discuss the specific problems we will be looking for when the time arrives. If your dog is overweight, he is more likely to induce this injury. Published: 06/15/2020, edited: 08/10/2021. Next on our list of common health problems in Labs is elbow dysplasia. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Special testing will be recommended if we hear a heart murmur or if you notice any unusual symptoms such as tiring easily, coughing, a swollen belly, or fainting. Today the Labrador comes in two varieties: the American (tall and lanky) or English (short and stocky). As with hip dysplasia, it is important to keep your dog at a healthy weight to relieve stress that is put on the joints. Signs that you may notice are the eye appearing cloudy or shiny and changes in behavior. They dont just help with the pain but they also help to protect and restore. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'lovingyourlab_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_7',124,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-lovingyourlab_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0')}; Panosteitis is very painful but will go away on its own. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. In fact, studies have identified obesity as one of the most common health problems affecting Labradors. All kinds of worms and bugs can invade your Lab's body, inside and out. Its also a good idea to keep the ear clear of excessive hair. For example, if your pet needs hip X-rays or a puppy tooth extracted, this would be a good timeits more convenient for you and easier on your friend too. As a large, deep-chested breed, the Labrador is also prone to bloat. Pica can sometimes be caused by an underlying health problem, so your vet will need to rule out any medical causes. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. If your Lab has mild hip dysplasia, pain-relieving drugs can help to minimize the symptoms. Keep your dogs diet consistent and dont give her people food. Signs of liver disease do not usually occur until most of the liver is already damaged or destroyed, so early detection and intervention through routine blood screening is essential for early treatment. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Some tumors can be volleyball-sized or larger before signs of sickness show. Because of the significant risk of heart disease in this breed, well pay special attention to his heart during each examination. 2022 Harlingen Veterinary Clinic. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. Labradors can also develop cataracts. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Lab looking and feeling her best. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to lessen the symptoms and pain. There is no way to prevent all of the medical issues that can befall your Lab but you can do your best to keep him healthy. Even healthy dogs can develop the condition but it is still a good practice to keep your Lab up-to-date on vaccinations. There are three types of ear infections, the most common of which is known as otitis externa. If your Lab is constantly shaking his head and pawing at his ears then check to see if he has an ear infection. The only treatment for cataracts is surgery. Defects can also cause problems with heart valve function or the electrical signals that control the heartbeat. Some dogs with hip dysplasia never show any signs at all, while for others, it can be debilitating.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'lovingyourlab_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_4',106,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-lovingyourlab_com-medrectangle-4-0')}; For Labs with severe hip dysplasia surgery may be necessary. Just like humans, dogs can get ear infections. Exercise your dog regularly, but dont overdo it at first. While they are suitable as house companions, strenuous exercise is not recommended, so no hunting or working! Keep in mind these supplements can take a while to work and not every dog responds to their effects. Keep his exertion at moderate levels and stop your dog if he suddenly seems wobbly or is staggering. You can also help prevent ear infections by: Cleaning your dogs ears regularly using a dog-friendly ear cleaner, Making sure your Labs ears are dry after bathing or swimming, Regularly checking the ears for any signs of infection. Keep this in mind when searching for Labrador puppies. Sometimes this means measuring your dogs food portions to make sure he isnt getting too much. There is no cure for PRA but it is not painful and doesnt affect the lifespan of your dog. Bloat usually occurs after a dog has consumed a large amount of food or water, or exercised straight after eating a meal. You will know what to watch for, and we will all feel better knowing that were taking the best possible care of your pal. Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The best ways to prevent your Labrador from developing this condition are to monitor the rate at which he eats and drinks. These are most commonly inherited, but can also be the result of eye trauma and conditions like diabetes. Theres no effective treatment available for PRA and it eventually leads to blindness. Swimming is also a great exercise as it doesnt put much stress on his joints. Signs that may indicate arthritis are avoiding activity, limping, reluctance to climb stairs, sensitivity to cold and damp weather, stiffness, and shrinking away from being touched. Elbow dysplasia can have several causes. Ask a Vet: 10 Signs Your Dog Needs Vet Care ASAP - Wag! Its also a good idea to keep him from exercising too quickly after he eats. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly. There is no cure for arthritis but there are treatments, such as those mentioned above, as well as physical therapy and other homeopathic treatments that can help lessen the pain and discomfort. Unfortunately, Labrador Retrievers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! Labs can be overly hasty eaters and this can lead to bloat. Night blindness usually appears first and progresses to the point where the dog is completely blind. If your dog develops a flea allergy, you can relieve this by getting rid of the fleas. If bloat is untreated, it can cause death within hours. Just like in humans, early detection is key to getting treatment on time. Symptoms to watch for are scratching, licking her paws, ear infections, and dry, flaky skin. Labradors seem to be more prone to them than other breeds, especially female Labs. Your Lab is more likely than other dogs to have a liver disorder called portosystemic shunt (PSS). Signs to look for are a swollen stomach, trying to vomit, and restlessness. Exercise induced collapse, or EIC, is just what it sounds like a young, apparently healthy Labrador collapses to the ground suddenly while exercising. Over-exercising your Labrador before theyre fully grown can also be a contributing factor in the development of hip dysplasia. There are many Labrador diseases that are genetic and many that are just environmental. It usually occurs in Labs that are 6 to 14 months old. It won't help him, and he may bite you accidentally! Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. Labs originated in Newfoundland in the 1800s and were bred from St. Johns water dogs. It is important to keep your dog at a healthy weight as this will help alleviate stress on his joints. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'lovingyourlab_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_8',125,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-lovingyourlab_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0')};If you arent sure how much your Lab should be eating each day, consult your vet for the appropriate amounts. These Non-Core Vaccines Could Save Your Dog's Life, 8 Signs You Need to Talk to a Vet [Expert Advice], 7 Things You Need to Fly Internationally with Pets, New Kitten Checklist: What to Do and Buy in Kitty's First Month, 5 Clever Ways to Keep Your Dog Hydrated This Summer. This information can help you keep your Lab safe from common dangers while enjoying the water. If you notice these signs have you dog checked immediately by your vet. If you think your Labrador has bloat, take them to the vet straight away. You can also help make your dog more comfortable by providing them with soft bedding and a warm place to sleep. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Stiffness in your Labrador's elbows or hips may become a problem for him, especially as he matures. Dont let him overeat or drink too quickly. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. While theres a genetic component to Labrador weight gain, theres also plenty pet parents can do to help their fur-babies stay in shape. While playing or exercising, the dog may suddenly stagger and even collapse. A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Labrador Retrievers. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Labrador Retriever needs help.
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labrador retriever health problems symptoms