Labrador Retriever Health Issues: 5 Health Concerns to Look Out For

Labrador Retrievers are one of the most beloved dog breeds in America, and one of the most popular breeds our doctors see here at Welleby. Known for their friendly nature and boundless energy, Labs make wonderful companions, but they can also be prone to certain health issues of which every owner should be aware. As your veterinary team, we’re committed to caring for 

your Lab like one of our own and recommend screening for some of the most common concerns specific to the breed. 

1. Bone & Joint Issues

Labs are prone to several joint conditions, including elbow and hip dysplasia, where the joints don’t develop properly, causing instability and abnormal wear over time. They are also at risk for cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears, a common injury that can cause sudden pain and limping. These joint issues often lead to arthritis, a chronic condition that results in stiffness, discomfort, and reduced mobility, especially as your Lab ages. Early screening, diagnosis, and management are key to helping your Lab stay active, pain-free, and enjoying life to the fullest. 

How we can help: 

• Physical Examination – We carefully observe your Lab’s movement, including how they walk, sit, and stand. During the exam, we also assess range of motion in the joints and perform gentle palpation to check for pain, stiffness, swelling, or abnormal joint movement, all of which can be early signs of joint disease. 
• Genetic testing – Since hip and elbow dysplasia often have a hereditary component, genetic screening can help identify whether your Lab is at increased risk, assisting with early intervention. 
• X-rays – X-rays allow us to see the internal structure of the joints, helping us identify abnormalities in bone development, joint alignment, and early arthritic changes that may not be visible on the outside. 
• Medical Management – For dogs diagnosed with joint issues, we often recommend a combination of joint supplements, prescription diets, pain medications, and physical therapy. These treatments can slow disease progression, manage discomfort, and improve your Lab’s quality of life. 
• Surgical Intervention – In more advanced or severe cases of joint disease or injury, surgery may be the most effective option to significantly reduce pain, improve joint function, and help your dog return to a more active, comfortable life. 

2. Skin Allergies and Ear Infections

Labrador Retrievers’ lovable, floppy ears and soft coats are part of what makes them so endearing—but they can also make these dogs more prone to health issues like ear infections

and skin problems. Their ears can trap moisture, dirt, and debris, creating a warm, humid environment where bacteria and yeast thrive. Likewise, their skin can be sensitive and prone to irritation, hot spots, or allergic reactions, especially in warm or damp conditions. 

If your Lab is scratching at their ears or skin, shaking their head, licking or chewing at certain areas, or seems generally uncomfortable, it might be time for a check-up. Redness, odor, discharge, scabs, or hair loss are all signs that something’s not right. 

How we can help: 

• Skin / Ear Cytology – We examine samples under a microscope to check for infections like bacteria, yeast, or mites. This helps us choose the most effective medication based on what’s actually causing the problem. 
• Culture Testing – This goes a step further than cytology. It helps us identify the exact type of bacterial or fungal infection that’s making your Lab uncomfortable and determines which medications will work best to treat it. 
• Allergy Tests – Blood or skin testing can reveal environmental allergy triggers. This helps us tailor your Lab’s diet and develop a personalized allergy treatment plan. ● Food Trials – If we suspect a food allergy, we may try different diets to determine if food is the underlying issue. 
• Medications – We provide options for both immediate relief and long-term management of skin and ear issues related to allergies or infections. 

3. Obesity

Labs love to eat and are prone to weight gain—but extra pounds can lead to serious health issues. Obesity puts added strain on their joints, worsens conditions like hip dysplasia and arthritis, and increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and a shorter lifespan. 

While overfeeding and lack of exercise are common causes, medical conditions like hormonal imbalances can also contribute to weight gain. That’s why regular checkups and weight monitoring are so important. 

How we can help: 

• Weight Checks – We carefully track your Lab’s weight at every visit to monitor changes over time. Regular weight measurements help us identify gradual gains or losses that might not be obvious at home, allowing for early intervention. 
• Body Condition Scoring (BCS) – This is a hands-on assessment where we evaluate your dog’s fat coverage and muscle tone to determine their overall body condition. BCS helps us not only identify if your Lab is overweight or underweight, but also estimate how much weight they need to lose or gain to reach a healthy, balanced state. This personalized evaluation guides our nutrition and exercise recommendations to get your Lab to an ideal weight safely.
• Blood Tests – Blood work is important to rule out underlying medical issues that can contribute to weight changes, such as hypothyroidism or other hormonal imbalances. Detecting these conditions early ensures your Lab receives the right treatment alongside diet and lifestyle adjustments. 

4. Heart Disease

Labs can be prone to developing heart disease as they age. Conditions like valvular disease and cardiomyopathy can gradually affect their heart’s ability to function, often with subtle early signs like coughing, tiring easily, or labored breathing. Regular check-ups and early screening can make a big difference in detecting heart issues before they become serious. 

How we can help: 

• Physical exam – We listen closely for heart murmurs, abnormal rhythms, or breathing changes during your Lab’s check-up to determine if additional testing should be done.
• Diagnostic Imaging – Chest X-rays and ultrasound (echocardiogram) allow us to visualize the heart and lungs in detail. These tools are essential for diagnosing heart disease and determining whether long-term medication or ongoing monitoring is needed.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) – We use this test to detect irregular heart rhythms and monitor electrical activity, which can guide treatment and prevent potentially fatal events.
• Ongoing management – If heart disease is diagnosed, we’ll create a tailored care plan with medication, diet changes, and regular monitoring to keep your Lab as healthy and active as possible. 

5. Cancer

Labs are known for their loyalty, energy, and loving nature. But like many larger breeds, they also face a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer as they age. Lumps, unexplained weight loss, changes in appetite, or unusual fatigue can all be early signs. Detecting these signs early can make a big difference in treatment outcomes and quality of life. 

How we can help: 

• Physical Exams – Regular nose-to-tail exams help us detect lumps, bumps, or abnormalities early. 
• Diagnostic Imaging – X-rays and ultrasounds can help us see what’s going on inside the body and guide further testing. 
• Biopsy & Cytology – If we find a suspicious lump, we can examine cells under a microscope or send a sample to the lab for accurate diagnosis. 
• Bloodwork – Blood tests can help identify internal changes that may point to cancer or other underlying conditions.
• Treatment Planning – If cancer is diagnosed, we’ll guide you through the next steps, whether it’s surgery, medication, or referral to a veterinary oncologist. 

We’re here to care for your Lab like one of our own. Schedule a visit today so we can work together to keep your loyal, energetic companion happy, healthy, and thriving. Give us a call at (954) 748-2002 or book online here.