Common Health Issues in Labradoodles

Since Labradoodles are considered a “hybrid” dog breed, meaning they were created by cross-breeding a Labrador Retriever with a Standard Poodle, they are susceptible to hereditary health issues from both sides. There are common health issues that are seen in Labradoodles. While this may sound concerning to dog owners, remember that all dog breeds have the possibility of inheriting health issues from their parents and ancestors. It is known that just because a health issue can be hereditary doesn’t mean that your Labradoodle will experience the specific illness during his or her lifetime. Learning about the common health issues and symptoms will put you ahead of the game when it concerns your Labradoodles health and allow you to seek veterinarian care for your dog immediately.

Joint Problems

Joint problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia are common in Labradoodles. Symptoms include favoring one leg, lack of movement when they use to be playful, and whimpering when standing too long. These two healthy conditions can also cause him or her to develop arthritic issues.

Eye Issues

Labradoodles are prone to develop cataracts which have the potential to lead to total blindness. Symptoms include bumping into furniture and other objects and appearing hesitant when jumping on furniture that they commonly sit or sleep on. Progressive retinal atrophy, also known as PRA, is  another hereditary issue that would stem from the Labrador Retriever side of the Labradoodles ancestry.

Food Allergies

Labradoodles seem to be prone to food allergies. Dog owners will want to keep a close eye on your dog’s behavior and look for symptoms such as frequent foot licking or chewing of the paws and skin rashes, redness or swelling. Pet parents will want to pay close attention when in the process of adding or switching food flavors or brands in addition to changing or providing new treats to your Labradoodle. At the first sign of allergy symptoms stop feeding your dog the food and immediately contact the veterinarian.

Addison’s Disease

This disease is hereditary and cannot be detected before onset. It is a pituitary gland problem that is highly treatable. Veterinarian’s can diagnose the disease through conducting a variety of tests. They will provide medication and instructions on how to care for your Labradoodle if this health issue appears during your dog’s lifetime. An affected dog can go on to live a happy, normal life with treatment.

Sebaceous Adenitis

This health condition is actually rare but would be inherited from the poodle side of the Labradoodles ancestry. This condition occurs when the oil-producing glands located in the skin stop working. Symptoms include hair loss, scaly and dry skin and a harsh odor.

While these health issues may concern dog owners that have or in the process of welcoming a Labradoodle into their family, they are all treatable. At the first sign of any unusual symptoms contact the veterinarian. Always take your Labradoodle to his or her scheduled check-ups with the veterinarian. This is highly important for prevention and early diagnosis. The sooner you get your dog medical attention the sooner they can feel better and continue living the happy life you have provided for them.

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