Eye Problems in Lab Dogs

Labradors are prone to several hereditary eye conditions and due to their gregarious, bouncy nature, can injure their eyes running around and hunting. Pups should be checked by a veterinarian for genetic conditions and breeders should be informed if any hereditary eye conditions exist.

  1. Progressive Retinal Atrophy

    • Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) affects adult Labradors and so cannot be detected when the dog is a pup. PRA is a collection of diseases, some of genetic origin, that gradually cause deterioration of the retina of the dog's eye, causing pupils to dilate abnormally and can lead to cataracts.

    Cataracts

    • Hereditary cataracts affect young pups of all breeds, and can be removed through surgery. Older dogs also can get cataracts, which blur vision and may be treatable by a veterinarian through surgery.

    Retinal Dysplasia

    • Retinal dysplasia is an inherited condition in Labrador retrievers, causing the retina of the eye to develop abnormally, and it has no obvious symptoms. It also can be caused by ingesting toxins, viral infection or injury to the eye.

    Eye Injuries

    • Labradors can get dirt or seeds stuck in their eye, causing abrasions and irritation. If the dog then paws at their eye to try and remove the irritant, further damage can result. Red, itchy eyes can then lead to a more serious infection.