dog · Gundog
Labrador Retriever health
Quick answer
The UK's most popular dog breed — prone to obesity, joint disease and ear infections. PETHEALTH+ maps these topics to plain-English UK guides — what to watch, what to ask your vet, and when to call. Reviewed against UK veterinary guidance; information only, not a diagnosis.
Health topics for Labrador Retrievers
| Health topic | What to know | Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Obesity & weight management | Around half of UK dogs are overweight or obese, which shortens life and worsens arthritis, diabetes and breathing problems. | Read the guide |
| Arthritis & hip dysplasia | **Arthritis (osteoarthritis)** affects most dogs over eight years old in the UK. | Read the guide |
| Ear infections | Ear infections (otitis externa) cause **head shaking, scratching, redness, odour, and discharge** in the ear canal. | Read the guide |
| Limping causes | A limping dog is usually protecting a painful leg. | Read the guide |
Summaries reviewed 2026-07-18 against UK veterinary guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What health problems are Labrador Retrievers prone to?
- The health topics discussed most often for Labrador Retrievers include obesity & weight management, arthritis & hip dysplasia, ear infections and limping causes. Each guide on this page covers the symptoms to watch for, what your vet may suggest, and when to seek help.
- Are Labrador Retrievers a healthy breed?
- Every breed has conditions seen more often than average, but most Labrador Retrievers live full lives with routine preventive care. The guides below explain what to watch for and which checks or screening to discuss with your vet.
- When should I take my Labrador Retriever to the vet?
- Seek urgent veterinary help for collapse, difficulty breathing, repeated vomiting, straining without producing urine, sudden severe pain, or a seizure. For slower changes — appetite, weight, skin, energy or mobility — book a routine appointment with your vet.
Worried about your Labrador Retriever?
Check symptoms in plain English, or browse every topic in the dog health hub.