Labrador life expectancy averages generally 12 to 13 years, and it is a healthy breed with relatively few major problems. Notable issues related to health and wellbeing include:

Medical conditions that can exist in Labs:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Ear Infection
• Knee Problems
• Eye problems

Weight:

• Labs are often overfed and are allowed to become overweight, due to their blatant enjoyment of treats, hearty appetites, and endearing behavior towards people. A healthy Lab should keep a very slight hourglass waist and be fit and lithe, rather than fat or heavy-set. Excessive weight is strongly implicated as a risk factor in the later development of hip dysplasia and diabetes, and also can contribute to general reduced health when older. Arthritis is commonplace in older, overweight labs.

Worming

Salmon Poisoning (important in the Pacific Northwest)

Read the shocking story on canine food ingredients
 (not for the faint of heart) - click here

Pyometra - sometimes fatal in unspayed females, recently brought to our attention by the owner of a beautiful Chocolate Lab that was here for breeding.

Raisin Toxicity - something we should all be aware of

Giardia & Coccidiosis - parasitic infections