Labrador Retriever Dog Health Concerns

The Labrador Retriever is prone to the following major health conditions:

Canine Hip Dysplasia - Hip dysplasia is an abnormal formation of the hip socket that, in its more severe form, can eventually cause crippling lameness and painful arthritis of the joints. It is a polygenic trait, that is affected by environmental factors in the production of the final phenotype. It can be found in many animals and occasionally in humans, but is most commonly associated with dogs, and is common in many dog breeds, particularly the larger breeds.

Elbow Dysplasia - Elbow dysplasia is a condition involving multiple developmental abnormalities of the elbow-joint in the dog, specifically the growth of cartilage or the structures surrounding it. These abnormalities, known as 'primary lesions', give rise to osteoarthritic processes.

Osteochondritis Dissecans - Osteochondritis Dissecans is a joint disorder in which cracks form in the articular cartilage and the underlying subchondral bone. Osteochondritis Dissecans usually causes pain and swelling of the affected joint which catches and locks during movement. Obesity - Obesity or excessive weigh gain is common.

Patellar Luxation - Patellar Luxation is the abnormal shallow groove in the knee sot hat the knee cap slips n and out of the position, cuasing lameness. Patellar Luxation is most common in small dogs.

The Labrador Retriever is prone to the following minor health conditions:

Cataracts - Cataracts are opacities in the lens of the eye, which can cause blindness.

Central Progressive Retinal Atrophy - Central Progressive Retinal Atrophy is degeneration of the retinal cells beginning with those serving the central ares of vision.

Retinal Dysplasia - Retinal Dysplasia is the abnormal development of the retina.

Hypothyroidisim - Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. Early symptoms: Being more sensitive to cold; Constipation; Depression; Fatigue or feeling slowed down.

The Labrador Retriever occasionally has problems with the following health conditions:

Diabetes - Deficiency in insulin production or utilization of insulin causing glucose to be used abnormally.

Entropion - Entropion is the inversion of the eyelids, so that they roll inward, often irritating the eye.

Distichiasis - Distichiasis is the abnormal origin of eyelashes along the lid margin, often resulting in irritation to they eye.

Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia - Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia is the malformation of one of the heart valves.