9 Common Labrador Retriever Health Issues

Labrador Retrievers are a Fido favorite in America. They are best known for their family-friendly nature, goofy and fun personality, and energy that keeps their humans almost always on their toes. Are Labrador Retrievers healthy? The answer is yes. They are generally healthy pooches. But like all dog breeds, they are prone to several health conditions any owner must be aware of.

I explore the most common Labrador health issues and the symptoms to watch out for. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it’s best to take them to your vet immediately. Alongside living a healthy lifestyle, early treatment is the key to your dog’s best health and long lifespan. I also explain why it is super important to consider pet insurance for your Lab and explore some of the costs other Lab owners face.

From The Veterinarian

I spoke with Dr. Rebecca MacMillan to learn more about Labrador Retriever health issues from a veterinarian who has seen many Labrador patients during her career. Here’s what she has to say.

Labrador Retrievers are a popular breed, as both working dogs and family pets. This is due to their biddable nature and ability to pick up training tasks well. However, as lovely as this breed is, the Labrador is prone to certain health issues. 

Elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia are both common in Labradors. In affected animals, these joints do not develop properly as the dog grows and matures. If a dog’s joints do not form properly, it can lead to painful lameness and secondary changes such as osteoarthritis. Many dogs will require medical or surgical intervention to help manage their issues. This condition is hereditary, meaning parents with poor hips and elbows are more likely to pass this trait on to their offspring. It is therefore recommended that you purchase a puppy from a breeder who has had the mother and father officially elbow and hip scored. While this is no guarantee that your chosen pup will have perfect hip and elbow joints, it does increase their chances of being healthy.

Labradors are a breed that has a high chance of developing osteoarthritis as they age, and I see them regularly in my clinic. This degenerative joint condition can be seen secondary to issues like hip and elbow dysplasia but can also be due to general wear and tear.  Being large and active predisposes this breed to developing the condition, as does being overweight. 

Obesity is another issue that Labradors are prone to. Their food-orientated nature makes them easy to train, but sadly, it also means they are more likely to become overweight than many other breeds of dog. Obesity can lead to secondary issues such as diabetes, cancer, respiratory issues, and skin problems, as well as joint disease. 

While joint disease and obesity are by far the most common health issues that Labradors suffer from, there are a couple of others that are worth mentioning. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) describes problems that cause a gradual deterioration of the back of the eye (the retina). This can lead to affected dogs losing large parts of their central vision over time. It is a hereditary condition, so dogs that are going to be bred should have their eyes checked by a veterinary specialist before being mated to reduce the risk of passing problems on. 

As well as PRA, Labradors are more prone to laryngeal paralysis than other breeds, a condition that often affects older animals. Dysfunction occurs in the nerves that control the larynx, leading to paralysis of the dog’s vocal cords. This can cause issues with breathing (the vocal cords don’t open as they should to allow smooth airflow), coughing, and changes in the dog’s bark. I have also seen dogs present in a collapsed state during hot weather spells due to laryngeal paralysis.

You can keep your Labrador healthy by keeping them at a lean, fit body weight. This will avoid too much pressure on their joints, as well as reduce the risk of other obesity-related health complaints. You can do this by measuring their daily food rations accurately, using treats sparingly, and making sure your pet gets enough exercise. If you do spot any limping or stiffness in your pet, then you must get them checked over by your vet. They can discuss the various diagnostic and treatment options and work with you to make your dog more comfortable.

– Dr Rebecca MacMillan, BVetMed BSAVA PGCertSAM MRCVS, Veterinarian

9 Labrador Retriever Health Problems

Thankfully, Labradors are not among the unhealthiest dog breeds but are predisposed to their fair share of canine health issues. Despite being relatively healthy pups, they can cost you thousands in veterinary bills if they suffer with their health. Here are some of the most common Labrador health issues.

1. Hip & Elbow Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is the most common health concern in Labrador Retrievers. Some puppies develop weakness around the joints in early life. As their hips and elbows develop, they grow abnormally and don’t fit together as they should. This reduced movement and increased wear and tear eventually lead to arthritis, which can become very painful. Elbow dysplasia in Labs is much less common than hip dysplasia but is more common in Labs than in other larger breeds.

Symptoms

• Slow to stand up or jump
• Lame fore or hind legs
• Unusual walk
• Struggle to climb stairs
• Less activity
• Eventual muscle wastage around the affected joints leads to a slim appearance

Diagnosis & Treatment

After conducting a physical examination, your vet might recommend an X-ray. Hip X-rays are taken under sedation because the dog needs to lie very still. They might also suggest blood tests, a CT scan, or refer your dog to an orthopedic veterinarian or specialist clinic. Depending on the severity of the condition, your vet might recommend simple lifestyle changes such as a change in exercise routine or diet. Your dog might also need medication, physiotherapy, or corrective surgery.

If your Labrador is recovering from surgery, visit our guide on the best dog lift harnesses to help them heal while maintaining a “normal” life.

2. Swallowing An Object

Labrador Retrievers are very curious and always hungry. Although they are an extremely intelligent breed, many Lab owners would agree that they lack common sense regarding what they should and should not swallow. Swallowing a foreign object they shouldn’t is up there in the leading Lab insurance claims. Some objects pass through fine, and others can cause organ blockage and tears and lead to sudden death.

Lab owners need to Lab-proof their homes as you do with a child. A foreign object could be something you’ve accidentally left lying around the house, such as chocolate or other toxic food items. It could also be part of a toy, a sock, or something sharp like a fish hook. Or it could be something outside you have no control or awareness of, such as bones or rodent poison encountered on their walk.

Symptoms

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Increased drooling
• Abdominal tenderness or pain
• Lethargy
• Increased breathing rate
• Decreased appetite
• Straining to poop
• Behavioral changes
• Being sensitive when handled

Diagnosis & Treatment

If you notice any of the above symptoms, you must take your pooch to the vet for a physical examination — even if you’re uncertain they might have swallowed something. Depending on what it is, timing could be of the essence, and it’s better to be safe than sorry. Treatment depends on the object. If it’s small and safe enough to pass, your vet might suggest letting nature take its course. They might recommend giving them medication to induce vomiting, or they might request X-rays of their abdomen to get a better sense of what is happening. In severe cases, emergency surgery might be recommended to prevent blockages and rupture.

Always observe what your Lab is chewing or eating (as a parent to an equally mischievous Doxie, I know this is harder said than done). Visit my Dr. Cuddles ReadyRESCUE review, which could save your dog’s life if they swallow something toxic.

3. CCL Tear

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a thin connective tissue that runs through the center of our knees. The similar tissue in dogs is called the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), which connects the tibia to the femur. Although it is technically a CCL tear, most refer to it as an ACL tear. The tear occurs gradually over time, like a fraying rope that eventually wears out under constant pressure. Studies show that over half of dogs with a CCL tear in one knee develop it in the other, mainly due to overcompensation.

Symptoms

• Limping
• Difficult standing up
• Decreased activity level
• Muscle atrophy
• Not being able to stand at all

Diagnosis & Treatment

Depending on the severity of the ACL tear, vets can recommend anti-inflammatories, rehabilitation therapy, and custom knee braces. Surgical correction is often favored because it is the only way to stabilize the joint permanently. Some breeds, like Labs, are more prone to CCL tears than others, and being overweight increases the risk for these breeds.

4. Eye Conditions

There are many vision disorders in dogs, and the most common eye problems in Labs include progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), retinal dysplasia, entropion, glaucoma, and cataracts. Eye conditions can lead to significant discomfort and, in some cases, vision loss.

Symptoms

• Red/swollen eyes
• Excessive blinking
• Pawing at their eyes
• Inward-growing eyelashes
• Excessive tears or discharge
• Extreme dryness
• Light sensitivity
• Hesitant behavior
• Startling easy
• Bumping into objects

Diagnosis & Treatment

Some disorders, like entropion, are simple to diagnose because it’s obvious that the inward-growing eyelashes are causing discomfort to your pup. However, some conditions might only exhibit themselves once they cause significant sight complications for your dog. Some disorders, like cataracts, are age-related and occur within the last few years of a dog’s life. Others might be diagnosed with the first few years. A vet must examine your Lab to determine what’s happening. Depending on the disorder, treatment varies, too. Some conditions can be treated with a simple round of eye drops and antibiotics, whereas some problems require eye surgery to rectify.

5. Exercise-Induced Collapse

Exercise-induced collapse (EIC) is an inherited neuromuscular disease caused by a genetic mutation. EIC causes an otherwise healthy and fit dog to become weak and their hind legs to collapse after 5 to 20 minutes of strenuous exercise, such as chasing a ball or field hunting. Although most dogs return to normal after 20 minutes of rest, a severe EIC episode can be life-threatening. Mild to moderate exercise doesn’t usually trigger EIC symptoms.

Unfortunately, Labs are one of the most affected dog breeds. The University of Saskatchewan studied over 45,000 Labs and found that 40% were gene carriers, and 6% were affected by EIC. They also discovered that over 80% of Labs diagnosed with EIC experienced at least one episode by the age of four years. Watch this quick video of a Lab experiencing EIC.

Symptoms

• Wobbly gait when running
• Hindquarters drag during exercise
• Collapse
• Disorientation
• Excessive panting

Diagnosis & Treatment

Dogs can begin to show signs of the disease as early as five months. The only treatment is to avoid known trigger activities, intensive exercise, or extreme excitement, especially in hot weather. After a collapse, take them somewhere quiet and calm for them to recover. Whenever your dog collapses without a known cause, seeking veterinary attention immediately to determine the cause and get proper treatment is crucial.

6. Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a brain disorder in which recurrent seizures occur without a known cause, such as brain injury or disease. A seizure is a surge in the brain’s electrical activity and lasts, on average, 30 to 90 seconds.

Symptoms

• Tremors
• Twitching
• Shaking
• Convulsions
• Spasms

Diagnosis & Treatment

When the brain appears to be normal but functions abnormally, a vet can diagnose epilepsy when all other avenues are ruled out. Epilepsy is treatable with drug therapy, and anti-seizure medications are the most common choice. There are several commonly used anticonvulsants, and they are usually lifelong. Your vet might also suggest lifestyle changes to avoid flashing lights, and they might suggest dog sunglasses, too.

7. Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia

Labrador Retrievers are prone to a variety of heart health issues. Tricuspid valve dysplasia (TVD) is the most common in Labs. It refers to the abnormal development of the tricuspid valve, which allows blood to regurgitate back into the right atrium. Labs and German Shepherds are the most affected, and it mainly affects male dogs.

Symptoms

• Fatigue
• Coughing
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Swollen abdomen
• Labored breathing

Diagnosis & Treatment

TVD is incurable, but diuretics may be prescribed to relieve fluid retention. Vets often recommend gentle exercise to put less strain on the dog’s heart. In mild cases of TVD, most dogs can lead a normal life, but in some severe cases, congestive heart failure can occur.

8. Cancer

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), one in four dogs develop neoplasia at some point in their lifetime. Neoplasia is the abnormal growth of tissue cells that can be benign or malignant. Almost one in two dogs over the age of ten develop cancer. Unfortunately, Labs, among a few other breeds, have a higher incidence of neoplasm and cancer rates, especially lymphoma. A recent study conducted by Nationwide found that Labrador Retrievers had the fifth highest cancer risk of the most popular purebred breeds.

Symptoms

• Lumps under the skin
• Wounds not healing properly
• Loss of appetite or weight loss
• Increased thirst
• Excessive coughing
• Behavioral changes
• Lethargy
• Signs of discomfort or pain
• Difficulty urinating or defecating

Watch this informative video on the ten signs of cancer in dogs.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Taking a tissue sample (biopsy) is often necessary to confirm a cancer diagnosis. Like in humans, cancer treatment varies depending on the type of cancer, its stage, the dog’s age and health, and more. There are three standard treatments for cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy (radiotherapy). Your veterinarian can advise and help you choose the best cancer treatment for your pup.

9. Obesity

Being overweight or obese is a massive problem for Labradors. Labs are forever hungry and always scavenging for their next snack. Being overweight or obese puts further pressure on their joints, cardiac system, and more, which, in turn, leads to less activity. This downward spiral can lead to other secondary Lab health problems, such as diabetes, arthritis, liver and kidney disease, and increases the risk of certain cancers. Keeping your Lab active and controlling portion size is crucial. What is the average size for a Lab? Check out our guide on how heavy your dog should be and our Lab growth chart guide. Typically, Labs should weigh between 55 to 80 pounds. If your vet has recommended a low-fat diet, check out our top weight-loss diets.

New research shows that one in four Labs is prone to obesity. The genetic mutation of the POMC gene makes Labs feel constantly hungry and prevents them from burning calories. This can lead to serious weight management problems for Labs and their owners.

Our Personal Experience With Labrador Retriever Health Issues

My Black Labrador Bear was a very healthy puppy. At age three, he started having some balance issues, but they all seemed like isolated events. One day, I found him writhing on the ground, foam coming from his mouth, and he was completely disoriented. I was worried he had been bitten by another animal or eaten something poisonous, so I rushed him to the vet. By the time we arrived, he seemed back to normal, as if nothing had happened. After an exam, the vet diagnosed him with epilepsy and started him on medication. The meds helped control the condition, but it became a huge part of his life and care. He required medication for the rest of his life, as well as extra visits with the vet. We also had to take precautions in every situation to be sure he would not hurt himself or damage anything during an episode. Bear lived for close to 12 years and had a wonderful life despite having this incurable disease. 

– Danielle DeGroot, Labrador Parent, Canine Journal Research & Writing

Testing For Labrador Retriever Health Issues

The Labrador Retriever Club recommends various health tests for Labs. Some are compulsory, and others are optional but highly recommended. Here is what they recommend Labs are tested for:

• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Ophthalmologist exam
• Exercise-induced collapse (EIC)
• D locus (dilute)
• Centronuclear myopathy*
• Cardiac evaluation*

*Optional tests

Average Costs For Labrador Retriever Health Issues

According to Fetch Pet Insurance, the three most common health conditions Lab parents file claims for are hip dysplasia, swallowing an object, and an ACL tear. The costs associated with these Lab health problems over a lifetime are as follows:

• Hip Dysplasia: $4,670 to $6,370
• Swallowing An Object: $2,970 to $4,280
• ACL Tear: $6,030 to $7,520

Frequently Asked Questions

Many of our readers still have questions about Labradors, their primary health concerns, and how to keep them healthy. If you don’t see your question below, drop us a line in the comments below, and we’ll find the answer for you.

Are Labrador Retrievers Healthy?

Yes, Labrador Retrievers are a generally healthy breed with a typical lifespan of 11 to 13 years. But like any dog breed, they are more prone to specific health issues than others. Some Labs might not experience any of the above health concerns, but these are the most common, so it’s wise to be aware of these health problems and the symptoms to look out for.

Should I Get Pet Insurance For My Labrador?

You should consider getting pet insurance for your Labrador. As you can see from the above Lab health concerns and quotes, pet healthcare costs can be very expensive. Not only does pet insurance ensure you can meet your pet’s health needs should the worst happen, but it also puts your mind at ease.

What Do Labradors Usually Die From?

Although there are no official most frequent causes of death, my research shows that the two most reoccurring categories are cancer and musculoskeletal disorders, such as hip dysplasia and CCL. Although musculoskeletal disorders do not directly cause death, their symptoms cause pain, lower quality of life, and secondary health issues, which contribute to a leading cause of death in Labradors.

How Do I Keep My Labrador Retriever Healthy?

Although you don’t have total control over the health issues your Lab faces, there are other aspects of their lifestyle that you can control to boost their health. Check out our guides on the best dog food for Labradors, with tips on keeping them fit and trim. We also have a guide on the best dog beds for Labs, where you can see our favorites and learn why providing them with a supportive bed is so important.

Has your pup experienced any of these Lab health concerns? Or have they encountered something not on this list? We’d love to hear your stories and see how your Lab is doing in our comments section below.

Why Trust Canine Journal?

Emma is the mom to two rescue dogs, Bonkers and Chips. As a professional dog walker, pet sitter, and writer specializing in canine content, she has cared for hundreds of dogs, including many Labs. Emma loves sharing her experiences and knowledge with her readers and works with a dedicated team to bring their readers the most up-to-date and helpful information on all things dog.