Common Labrador Retriever Health Issues

Updated Aug 21, 2025

We all inherit certain traits we wear like badges of honor—our mom’s freckles or our dad’s love for rock ‘n’ roll—as well as those we’d rather forget—like our dad’s stubbornness or our mom’s poofy, unmanageable hair.

While you might’ve never thought much about your Labrador Retrievers. A magnificent, athletic, and friendly breed with a good lifespan, labradors are generally sturdy and healthy, but they may inherit a disposition toward certain health problems and breed-specific health diseases.

Read on for a guide to common Labrador Retriever health issues and what you can do about them.

Ear, Eye, and Skin Issues

Labs are commonly prone to ear infections, eye problems, and skin issues. Their active lifestyle, especially in water, makes them particularly vulnerable to ear infections and skin problems. However, eye issues, while not linked to water exposure, are also a concern for Labs. Regularly inspecting your pup’s ears, eyes, and skin while looking out for symptoms of infection or irritation is crucial for maintaining their overall wellness.

Ear Infections

Labs’ adorable, floppy ears trap moisture and wax, especially after swimming or a bath.¹ Trapped moisture can create inflammation within the ear canal, making Labs prone to ear infections. Researchers found otitis externa, an outer ear infection, in 10.4% of the 2,074 labs in one study. They also noted that ear infections and hot spots are significantly more common in chocolate-coated Labs.

To prevent infection, clean your Lab’s ears every two to three weeks with a veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution, as well as after they swim or bathe.²

See your vet if you notice symptoms of ear problems like:

• Redness or brown/yellow debris in the ear canal
• Head shaking or tilt
• Pawing ears or rubbing ears on the carpet or furniture
• Odor from the ears

Pyo-traumatic dermatitis, also called “hot spots,” occurs when dogs scratch at irritated areas due to flea bites, allergic reactions, infected ears, and other triggers.).³ “Hot spots” may be managed with antimicrobial gels and sprays.

Labs are also prone to allergies to pollen, mold, or dust.⁴ Symptoms of dog allergies include:

• Paw-licking
• Face-rubbing
• Frequent ear infections
• Itchiness (on the feet, belly, and folds of the skin and ears)

There are various treatments available for allergies in dogs. Consult your vet about which option is best for your Lab.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Although more common in other breeds, Labrador Retrievers may also be affected by this rare congenital eye condition. In PRA, the retina, a layer of cells at the back of the eye that reflects images to the brain, slowly deteriorates over time, eventually leading to blindness.

PRA usually begins in Labs between the ages of three and nine years old, and it can be diagnosed with an eye exam.1 There is no cure, but pet parents can make lifestyle modifications to help their blind pet live a long, happy life.¹

Obesity, Bloat, and Hemangiosarcoma Concerns in Labs

Other conditions—from obesity to cancer—may unfortunately be written in your Lab’s genes. Staying informed is the best thing you can do, as early diagnosis is often key to a healthy, happy life for your dog.

Obesity

Approximately one in four Labradors carries at least one variant of the POMC gene, which is associated with weight, obesity, and appetite in both Labradors and flat-coated retrievers.⁸ On average, for every copy of the gene carried, a dog is over four pounds heavier than a dog without it.⁸

The researchers concluded this may be why some labs are prone to being overweight compared to other breeds, but also part of the reason they may be easier to train.⁸ Obesity is considered a disease, and it can contribute significantly to other health problems, as more weight typically equals more inflammation in the body.⁹ An obese dog is at a higher risk for:

• Reduced life expectancy
• Skin disorders
• Kidney dysfunction
• Respiratory disorders
• Cancer
• Diabetes
• Orthopedic disease

Consult your vet about the right diet and exercise plan for your Lab, and be sure to rule out health conditions that may have contributed to any sudden weight gain.

Bloat

Labradors, like all large-breed dogs, are particularly susceptible to bloat, a medical emergency in which the stomach fills with gas and twists, obstructing blood flow, leading to shock, which will rapidly cause death without treatment.¹⁰

Bloat can kill a dog within hours, and minutes can make a difference, so be sure to rush your Lab to the vet if you notice any of the following signs:

• Swollen, hard belly
• Retching without vomit
• Drooling
• Pain in the abdomen when touched
• Panting, restlessness, and other signs of distress

Your dog will immediately need a stomach pump, IV fluids, and medication. Once stabilized, your veterinarian will perform surgery to repair damage to the stomach and prevent recurrent episodes.

Hemangiosarcoma

Labs are prone to certain types of cancer. As they age, Labs may develop hemangiosarcoma, a tumor of the spleen that tends to rapidly progress and spread to other organs.1 This tumor can rupture without warning, causing life-threatening internal bleeding. Symptoms of a ruptured tumor on the spleen include¹:

• Weakness
• Pale (usually white) gums
• Fluid in the abdomen
• Lack of appetite
• Difficulty breathing

Hemangiosarcoma is hard to catch—often, symptoms don’t present themselves until the tumor is large, so prognoses can be grave. It’s crucial to keep up with the ultrasounds and blood tests that begin with your dog’s annual senior wellness check, as these offer the best chance to catch clues and initiate early treatment.

Neurological, Muscular, and Skeletal Ailments in Labs

Several genetic orthopedic and neurological conditions affect the family trees of Labs, so watch for early signs, have your pet regularly examined by the veterinarian, and feed a proper, balanced, veterinarian-approved diet.

Episodic Movement Disorders

Researchers found that among Labs with epilepsy, 10 to 70% had atypical seizures, also called focal motor seizures.⁵ Affected dogs do not lose consciousness but may stagger, seem dazed or anxious, be unable to stand, tremble uncontrollably, or have a head tremor, among other signs.⁵

If you notice any of these signs in your pup, get them to a safe environment, comfort them, and time the episode. Then, call your vet immediately and let them know how long the seizure lasted and seek additional treatment.

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

These inherited orthopedic conditions cause lameness in the affected joint, particularly after exercise. Affected dogs may bunny hop, moving both back legs together, be reluctant to move, or hold up the affected limb.

Your vet will conduct X-rays or a CT scan to diagnose hip or elbow dysplasia. Pain management and surgery are usually necessary.

Exercise-Induced Collapse (EIC)

This rare but serious inherited condition typically develops in dogs after they reach one year old.

EIC shows up after exercise or excitement. The back legs suddenly get weak or collapse, and body temperature can become dangerously high—up to 107°F. If this happens, call your veterinarian. They can guide you on what to do next. DNA testing identifies risk for this disease. Affected dogs should not be bred.

Centronuclear Myopathy

This rare, congenital disease of the skeletal muscle may occur in Labs. Reputable breeders will test for this and won’t breed affected dogs.

This condition causes the head, legs, and neck muscles to get smaller and weaker, usually between two and five months and one year old. This means your pup might have trouble walking or holding up their head as they grow, so it’s important to get help from your vet if you notice these changes. Once your pup reaches 12 months old, the condition usually stabilizes; however, the dog will have muscle weakness and an abnormal gait for life. Genetic therapy is the recommended treatment.

Heart Problems in Labs

Your Lab may be born with certain heart defects, or they may be prone to certain types of heart disease, depending on their diet. Ensure your pet receives regular veterinary visits to help identify and prevent these heart problems.

Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia

In this congenital problem, the valve between the two main heart chambers on the right side of the heart develops abnormally and doesn’t work correctly.1 This causes abnormal blood flow and over time, will cause heart enlargement and right-sided heart failure.¹

Depending on the severity of the problem, many Labs can live normal lives with TVD, but some may need lifelong heart medication or even surgery.1 Symptoms of right-sided heart failure include¹:

• Coughing
• Fluid in the abdomen
• Distended abdomen
• Trouble breathing
• Rapid heart rate

If you notice any symptoms (or if you know that your pup’s parents suffered from heart issues), consult your vet immediately.

Diet-Associated Dilated Cardiomyopathy

This type of heart disease happens when dogs of any breed are fed a grain-free diet with peas, legumes, or lentils among the top five ingredients.¹⁰ The resulting nutritional deficiencies and nutrient toxicities cause heart dilation and weakening, leading to heart failure.¹⁰

Diagnosis includes laboratory tests, nutrient concentration levels, an echocardiogram, and others. Treatment may take months and includes diet modification, carefully regulated supplements, and medications to support the heart.¹⁰

To prevent this condition, talk to your veterinarian about proper pet nutrition, feed an AAFCO-aligned pet food, and ask your veterinarian if your pup would benefit from supplements.

Support Your Lab’s Health With Vetericyn

Like any breed, Labradors are genetically predisposed to certain conditions, so it’s crucial to take steps to keep your pup safe and healthy. Vetericyn is here to help, providing you with essential health tips to keep your Lab happy and healthy.

From our antimicrobial hot spot spray and gels to our ear rinse, natural pet shampoo, and balanced nutritional supplement, we help you put your pet’s health first.

Maximizing your pet’s wellness is one of the best ways to show how much you love them, ensuring lots of fun times together. Vetericyn knows you always look out for your dog, so we are here to help you give your pet the best.

 

Reviewed by Dr. Kathy Adamson

Dr. Kathy Adamson earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine.

She completed a one-year small animal medicine and surgery internship at the North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine. Alongside her studies, Kathy worked in a research lab, contributing as an author and co-author to various journal articles.

She has also pursued medical writing and editing certification through the University of Chicago Graham School. Currently, she runs KMA Veterinary & Medical Writing, a freelance medical writing company, serves as the Digital Content Manager for the Greater Chicago Area Chapter of the American Medical Writers Association, is a member of the AMWA Communications Committee, and enjoys writing about healthcare topics for people and their cherished pets.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathyadamsondvm/

 

Sources:

10. PetMD. Labrador Retriever. https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/labrador-retriever
11. Dickinson University: Pup Catch-Up. Health Problems in Labradors. https://blogs.dickinson.edu/mansbestfriend/2022/10/10/health-problems-in-labradors/
12. Improve Veterinary Practice. Pyotraumatic dermatitis (acute moist dermatitis, hot spot). https://www.veterinary-practice.com/article/pyotraumatic-dermatitis-acute-moist-dermatitis-hot-spot
13. Orchard Road Animal Hospital. Labrador Retriever. https://www.orchardroadanimalhospital.com/services/dogs/breeds/labrador-retrievers
14. University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine. Atypical seizures / paroxysmal dyskinesia. https://vetmed.umn.edu/research/research-labs/canine-genetics-lab/canine-genetics-research/atypical-seizures-paroxysmal-dyskinesia
15. MetLife Pet Insurance. Heart Disease In Dogs: Causes, Treatments, and What It Costs. https://www.metlifepetinsurance.com/blog/pet-health/heart-disease-in-dogs/
16. Cambridge University. Genetic variant may help explain why Labradors are prone to obesity. https://www.cam.ac.uk/research/news/genetic-variant-may-help-explain-why-labradors-are-prone-to-obesity
17. MetLife Pet Insurance. Weight Gain in Dogs. https://www.metlifepetinsurance.com/blog/pet-care/weight-gain-in-dogs-keeping-your-pet-healthy/
18. BlueCross UK. Bloat in dogs. https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/health-and-injuries/bloat-in-dogs
19. Tilley LP, Smith FWK, Sleeper MM, Brainard BM, editors. Blackwell’s Five-Minute Veterinary Consult: Canine and Feline. 7th ed. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell; 2021, pg239-240