Lab Dog Health Problems

Labrador retrievers are generally healthy dogs, though they can be susceptible to certain health issues, veterinarian Becky Sweeney writes on PetPlace.com. According to the American Kennel Club, Labradors were the most popular dog breed in the United States in 2009.

  1. Types

    • The most common health problems affecting Labrador retrievers are hip and elbow dysplasia, eye disorders and epilepsy, dog trainer Norma Bennett Woolf writes in the Dog Owner's Guide at CanisMajor.com. Common eye disorders are progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. Labs also are susceptible to ear infections and bloat.

    Causes

    • Many Labrador retriever health problems are genetic, Sweeney writes. Hip and elbow dysplasia are caused by poor joint development. Progressive retinal atrophy is caused by a recessive gene that both parents must carry in order for the puppy to inherit the disease. Some problems, however, are not inherited. The Mar Vista Animal Medical Center in Los Angeles explains that floppy-eared dogs such as Labradors are prone to ear infections. Bloat is caused by a buildup of gas in the dog's stomach, and often causes the stomach to twist. Bloat can be fatal if left untreated.

    Time Frame

    • If a Lab suffers from dysplasia, owners usually recognize some signs of it between 12 and 36 months, according to the Labrador Retriever Club Inc. The disease often causes arthritis in older dogs. Diseases such as epilepsy and retinal atrophy also tend to make their first appearance in puppies or young adults. Mar Vista Animal Medical Center lists retching as the main sign of bloat in dogs. Dogs with ear infections tend to scratch their ears excessively, shake their heads or hold one ear slightly drooped.

    Identification

    • A Lab owner can check for hip dysplasia by having the dog x-rayed at around 4 or 5 months of age, although x-rays at 2 years, according to the Labrador Retriever Club. A veterinarian can perform a genetic test for retinal atrophy with a blood sample. The vet can check inside the dog's ear for an ear infection. Mar Vista Animal Medical Center says that vets test for bloat primarily by feeling the dog's stomach for swelling.

    Considerations

    • Woolf recommends that potential Lab owners research a number of breeders before purchasing a puppy. A good breeder genetically tests the breeding dogs, and does not breed unhealthy dogs. Both parents should be available at the breeder's home, and the breeding dogs should be champions in obedience, agility or another canine activity. Buying a puppy from a reliable breeder greatly reduces the risk of getting a puppy with health problems.