Breed Health
Labrador Retriever Health Issues
A generally healthy, long-serving breed, though a few well-documented conditions are worth knowing about, especially given the breed’s notorious appetite.
Common Hereditary Conditions
Obesity
Labs are famously food-motivated and highly prone to weight gain, which compounds joint and heart problems over time; portion control matters more for this breed than most.
Hip & Elbow Dysplasia
A joint malformation common in the breed; screening breeding parents lowers the odds in puppies.
Exercise-Induced Collapse
A genetic condition causing weakness after intense exercise, documented in the breed; a DNA test can identify carriers.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
A gradual, inherited deterioration of the retina; a DNA test can identify carriers before breeding.
Preventive Care
Measuring food rather than free-feeding is the single most protective habit for this breed, given its tendency to overeat. Hip and elbow screening before breeding lowers the odds of dysplasia in puppies. Requesting exercise-induced collapse and eye clearances from a breeder further reduces hereditary risk.
Did You Know?
Labradors carry a documented genetic mutation linked to a stronger drive for food, part of why the breed is so notoriously prone to weight gain compared to many others.
Labrador Retriever Gifts
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