Labrador Hip Problems
Although Labs are generally healthy, as a breed they are susceptible to a few genetic health problems. One issue is the tendency to have hip problems.
Dog hip problem investigation usually finds a condition called hip dysplasia, which is the abnormal functioning of the hips, and osteoarthritis. Both condition are progressive and get worse over time if left untreated. Treatment involves medications, surgery and possibly dietary supplements.
Question is – How can you make sure you do not buy a puppy labrador that might develop hip dysplasia later on…?
Answer is – If you plan on purchasing a Lab puppy from a breeder find out information regarding health of puppy’s parents. Breeding only unaffected dogs probably accounts for the majority of the improvement.
Also, please not Labradors suffering from hip dysplasia are just as cute as the healthy ones.
But how can you be sure?
Diagnosis can be made by x-ray as early as 4 or 5 months of age, although at this age there is a small chance of error. All dogs intended for breeding should be x-rayed once they have matured, but before being bred for the first time. Twenty-four months of age is considered the minimum age for an accurate determination and for certification by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).
It is believed that environmental factors and high caloric intake do not cause CHD and that high doses of vitamin C won’t reduce or prevent CHD. However it is wise to do everything possible to prevent CHD, therefore we recommend the following: Only breed unaffected dogs and only buy puppies from unaffected parents. Line the whelping box with carpeting or towels instead of newspapers to provide better traction. Prevent excessive jumping (e.g. into the back of a pickup) or forced exercise (e.g. roadwork) until the dog is mature (at least 24 months). Keep dogs on the lean side, instead of obese. Provide a good quality diet.
Need more information?
Browse through this site for proper diet for Labradors, weight management and the right exercise.
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About Labradors
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers have been the most popular of all dogs registered with the AKC for more than 15 years. Of course they are! Labs are easy going and versatile, devoted to their families and friendly toward people, other dogs, and other pets. They love hunting, swimming, and backyard games.
Weight: 55-80 lbs
Height: 21-25”
Color: solid black, yellow, or chocolate
Coat: short coarse outer coat with straight or slightly wavy hair
thick undercoat to provide waterproofing
Grooming: weekly
Longevity: 10-12 years
Especially good at:
# Great family dogs & easily trusted with children
# Happily accept other pets and other people
# Keep their human guardians fit and active because they need routine exercise
# Tolerate cold well and are reasonably tolerant of heat
# Good at lifting spirits with their constantly wagging tails
# Are happiest and healthiest when living with exercise fanatics
Watch out for:
# Lumps or growths that may indicate cancer
# Over feeding
# Feet chewing or ear infections that develop subsequent to allergies
# Obesity, sluggishness and dull coat due to hypothyroidism
# Arthritis of the hips, knees, and elbows
# Excessive chewing due to boredom
# Tail wagging that can tumble a toddler over
Appearance
Labradors are robust, active dogs able to run and hunt for hours. They have a shiny, coarse coat, brown or hazel eyes, a kind, intelligent expression, and triangular ears that hang down and frame the face. The abdomen tucks up only slightly so the trunk is rather rectangular. There is a small but discernable narrowing over the flanks. The tail is strong and has a wide base. This is called an “otter tail.”
Behavior
Naturally active and exuberant, Labs love to be busy and especially love something to chew when they’re resting. Labs are among the easiest to train of all breeds because they are intelligent and are focused on what their human companions want. Because Labs retain their puppy natures until they are nearly 3 years old, some pet guardians lose patience and are tempted to get rough with them or to use shock collars. To elicit the desired behavior from these rambunctious pets, use gentleness and consistency. Keep Labs well exercised and they develop commendable behavior. Suspect painful arthritis or another health problem if a Labrador Retriever begins to bite or becomes irritable.
Health
Bone and joint diseases (such as arthritis and hip dysplasia)
Providing a natural, holistic diet helps prevent and manage bone and joint problems. Over 10% of Labrador Retrievers has hip dysplasia, but the breeders have been working hard to bring the percentage down.
Allergies that predispose them to ear infections
Providing a natural, holistic diet and vaccinating only when necessary and for the fewest diseases helps prevent and manage immune problems, such as allergies
Hypothyroidism
Low thyroid hormone levels (hypothyroidism) is easily treated with prescription medication, and many veterinarians believe the likelihood of hypothyroidism is reduced markedly if Labrador Retrievers are not over vaccinated.
Obesity
Obesity is controlled with diet and exercise. The natural fat layer that protects Labrador Retrievers from hypothermia when swimming should not be allowed to become a thick layer of padding.
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