Labrador Retriever Health Concerns

Labrador Retriever Health Concerns

What are the Labrador Retriever Health Concerns? Many health problems can affect these dogs, which can be caused by accidents or poor diet. Infections were once a common cause of disease in dogs, but modern vaccination programs have lowered the rates of many diseases. If you notice any of the following symptoms in your dog, it is time to visit a veterinarian. Here are some common labrador health concerns.

Labrador Retrievers are prone to joint problems, especially in their senior years and during cold months. Hip dysplasia, for example, is a common condition in Labs, and can cause pain and immobility. Hip dysplasia is hereditary, so you should look into the breed’s history. Supplements prescribed by your vet may help ease the symptoms, but severe cases may require surgery or stem cell treatments.

An underlying health concern for Labradors is cruciate ligament disease or DJD. The cruciate ligament, one of four heart valves, is susceptible to damage during a puppy’s development. If this happens during the activity, the puppy may become lame. It may hold the foot of the affected leg off the ground and have a swollen knee. In severe cases, surgery is necessary to repair the damaged cruciate ligament.

Seizures are another common health concern in Labradors.

If your dog has inherited this condition, he may be prone to seizures. This condition is highly upsetting for both the dog and its owner. Medications may be needed to treat his seizures, so you must make sure to follow instructions from your vet. Keep in mind that it is best to supervise your dog during a seizure if your pet is suffering from epilepsy.

Labradors are generally sturdy, but this does not mean that they are disease-free. Labradors are prone to various disorders, but overall construction makes this breed remarkably low-risk. Some of the common issues are otitis externa, obesity, and degenerative joint disease. The research results will help veterinarians better target future treatments and develop more effective programs. In the meantime, it will help inform veterinarians and prospective owners about common Labrador health concerns and develop wellness checks to ensure that your dog is in good shape.

The Labrador is a social and lovable dog that needs a lot of exercises.

They enjoy swimming and retrieving and need plenty of mental stimulation. Otherwise, they may get bored and chew on things. You can also avoid a lot of trouble if you train your lab to behave in a manner consistent with your expectations. This breed will need a lot of attention and patience to mature. However, they can be a great companion for families with children.

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a group of eye diseases that affects larger breeds of Labradors. If both parents carry the PRA gene, Labs will develop PRA. If only one parent has the gene, the Lab will be a carrier and will not display symptoms. Responsible breeding can eliminate this disease. Blood tests can determine whether or not your Lab has the PRA gene.