Labrador Retriever Health Issues

Every breed has predictable health problems. For the Labrador Retriever, the most common conditions are listed below — with what to look for and what to do.

1. Hip And Elbow Dysplasia (Common — Health-Test Parents)

This condition appears in Labrador Retriever populations at higher rates than in mixed-breed dogs. Early signs vary, but most owners notice changes in movement, appetite, energy, or coat. Annual vet exams catch most issues before they become serious; ask your vet about breed-specific screening tests for Labrador Retrievers.

2. Obesity (Very Prone — Monitor Diet Carefully)

This condition appears in Labrador Retriever populations at higher rates than in mixed-breed dogs. Early signs vary, but most owners notice changes in movement, appetite, energy, or coat. Annual vet exams catch most issues before they become serious; ask your vet about breed-specific screening tests for Labrador Retrievers.

3. Exercise-Induced Collapse (Eic)

This condition appears in Labrador Retriever populations at higher rates than in mixed-breed dogs. Early signs vary, but most owners notice changes in movement, appetite, energy, or coat. Annual vet exams catch most issues before they become serious; ask your vet about breed-specific screening tests for Labrador Retrievers.

4. Progressive Retinal Atrophy

This condition appears in Labrador Retriever populations at higher rates than in mixed-breed dogs. Early signs vary, but most owners notice changes in movement, appetite, energy, or coat. Annual vet exams catch most issues before they become serious; ask your vet about breed-specific screening tests for Labrador Retrievers.

5. Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia

This condition appears in Labrador Retriever populations at higher rates than in mixed-breed dogs. Early signs vary, but most owners notice changes in movement, appetite, energy, or coat. Annual vet exams catch most issues before they become serious; ask your vet about breed-specific screening tests for Labrador Retrievers.

Reducing Risk

Buy from breeders who health-test their breeding pairs. Maintain a healthy weight (extra pounds worsen joint issues), feed an age-appropriate diet, and keep up with annual bloodwork starting at age 6. For the Labrador Retriever specifically, watch for hip and elbow dysplasia (common — health-test parents) as the highest-priority concern.

When to See a Vet Immediately

Sudden lethargy, vomiting that won’t stop, distended abdomen (especially in deep-chested breeds), inability to urinate, pale gums, or collapse are emergencies. Don’t wait until morning — find a 24-hour clinic.