Most Common Health Problems in Labradors

As far as dogs go, Labradors are one of the most popular breeds of dog in the world. Loyal, calm and full of energy, they’re such a popular breed because they aren’t considered particularly dangerous by prospective owners.

For whatever reason you may get one, dogs form a huge part of a lot of people’s family. Whether you’re on your own, in a couple of have a family and children, dogs are the go-to companion and a hugely popular pet. But what happens when a man’s best friend becomes ill or has an off day? Concern, worry and possibly huge vet bills! Take a look below at some of the most commons health problems amongst Labradors.

Patellar Luxation

Patellar Luxation is essentially dislocation of the kneecap bone from the leg. This can affect many dogs, but the activity of a Labrador means they’re a little more susceptible. The kneecap moving out of place can cause a range of pain sensations, from small to excruciating. It is hard to discourage this from happening, mainly because it is so random. The cause is usually from a sharp and direct twist of the leg/knee, but there is no warning sign to this happening. Very much like causing injury to a human leg, there is little you can do to predicting injury. It is possible for a dog to live with this condition, but as it often causes pain, there can be need for an operation to help fix the issue.

Distichiasis

Diabetes

Diabetes in dogs is very similar to that of diabetes in humans. Diabetes in a dog means that they cannot utilize insulin in the right way, and therefore see blood sugar levels rise dramatically. Like with humans, there are a couple of types of diabetes in dogs. Type 1, which related to lack of insulin production and type 2 which related to the poor formation of insulin. Dogs can still lead a happy, productive life even if they have diabetes, but there are often medicine needed in order to keep the dog healthy in the form of insulin injections. If diabetes in your Labrador is less severe, it can often be managed through a set, strict diet.

Exercise-Induced Collapse

Exercise-induced collapse is a state of lethargy in dogs that can cause serious health problems, and even in the most severe cases, death. When taking part in exercise that the dog can’t handle, their body starts to shut down, become and become unresponsive, from trailing of the legs, to whole body collapse. There are now DNA tests that can be done to track and identify this disorder. If your dog is seen to have a DNA efficiency that could lead to EIC, you will be advised to cease exercise of the dog. This doesn’t mean, however, that it will continue to affect their life. Dogs with EIC can continue to lead normal lives as house pets, but they should not take part in real physical exercise.

How Best To Treat Your Dog’s Health

Keeping track of your dog’s previous health history is a great place to start. Making sure this is up-to-date it the best way to make sure you keep a healthy Labrador for longer. Heart problems and EIC can all be traced through a dog’s medical history. So be sure to keep this knowledge to hand.

Ensuring a stable, healthy diet for your dog is also key. If they are allowed to exercise (most dogs are), always keep them active. The more they use their bodies the stronger they will grow and the less likely they are to become overweight. And an overweight Labrador will put dreadful strain on itself in a number of ways, from their heart to their legs and hip joints.

Keeping a dog fit and healthy, like with humans, is a lot down to what they take into their bed in the form of food. Take a look at the bag of dog food you use and make sure some of the first ingredients are real food like meats and proteins, not fillers and glues.

You should also make sure your vet is the right vet for you. You need a vet that is prepared and ready to treat any eventuality, and if this isn’t happening, be sure to find one that can help your Labrador. They’re special dogs and should be given the proper medical attention they deserve.

Being able to take care of your dog is also an important part of being a pet owner. That doesn’t mean merely feeling it, but giving them an active lifestyle by way of activity and stimulation. Even if your dog isn’t particularly good on their feet, they will still be able to play small household games and get some form of physical and mental exercise. Playing with and paying attention to your Labrador is an integral part of their life.

It’s always worth doing more research on the points made above, and if you have any thoughts or concerns around the health of your Lab, be sure to consult a veterinary expect. This is the best way to ensure your pet leads as healthy a life as they can do. Dogs are an important part of our families, and this is the best way to treat them. Like family.