Health Issues with Labradoodles: What You Need to Know

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Posted Oct 16, 2024

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Labradoodle in Summer
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Labradoodles are a popular crossbreed between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, known for their friendly and intelligent nature. They can suffer from various health issues due to their mixed heritage.

Hip dysplasia is a common problem in Labradoodles, with 50% of the breed being affected. This can lead to arthritis and mobility issues later in life.

Their eyes are also prone to problems, with 20% of Labradoodles developing progressive retinal atrophy. This can cause blindness if left untreated.

Regular exercise and a healthy diet can go a long way in preventing or managing these conditions.

Health Issues

Hip dysplasia is a common issue in Labradoodles, just like in Aussiedoodles. It's essential to be aware of this potential problem.

Labradoodles can also experience eye problems, including cataracts, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), and CEA (Chloride Channel Protein). Regular veterinary check-ups can help catch these issues early.

Multiple drug sensitivity is another potential health issue in Labradoodles. This means that some medications may not be suitable for your furry friend.

Credit: youtube.com, What are the common health issues in Labradoodles?

Cushing's Disease and epilepsy are also possible health issues in Labradoodles. These conditions can be managed with proper care and attention.

Pancreatitis is another potential health issue to watch out for in Labradoodles. Early detection and treatment can make a big difference.

Here's a list of common health issues in Labradoodles:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems like cataracts, PRA or CEA
  • Multiple drug sensitivity
  • Cushing’s Disease
  • Epilepsy
  • Pancreatitis

Genetic Conditions

Genetic conditions can be a challenge for Labradoodle owners, as seen in the case of Sheepadoodle owners who are dealing with inherited immune function disorders. Some Labradoodles may be prone to mite allergies, which can be severe and lead to self-harm.

In addition to allergies, some Labradoodles may be at risk for conditions similar to doggie cystic fibrosis, as mentioned by an owner whose Aussie Doodle, Cooper, experiences frequent coughing and spitting up mucus, especially at night. This condition can be difficult to diagnose, as Cooper's extensive testing has shown.

Cooking for your Labradoodle can help alleviate symptoms of immune function disorders, as one owner has found with their Goldendoodle, Milo. However, it's essential to note that some conditions may require professional treatment, such as immunology treatments, which can take up to ten months to show results.

Cancer and Diseases

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Labradoodles are prone to cancer, especially as they age. Over ⅓ of deaths in older dogs are caused by cancer, and the type and location of the cancer determine the best course of treatment.

Some common signs of cancer in Labradoodles include lumps or bumps under the skin, bad odors from the mouth, ears, or bum, and unexplained bleeding. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's essential to take your dog to the vet right away.

Regular check-ups with the vet can help detect cancer early on, and a healthy weight, regular exercise, and avoiding harmful substances can also reduce the risk of cancer.

Here are some common signs of cancer in Labradoodles:

  • Lumps or bumps under the skin
  • Bad odors from the mouth, ears, or bum
  • Unexplained bleeding
  • Persistent wounds and sores
  • Changes in appetite
  • Sudden weight loss
  • Changes in behavior and bathroom habits
  • Lethargy and depression
  • Abdominal swelling
  • Pain

Eye Diseases

Labradoodles are prone to eye diseases, which can be a serious issue if left untreated. These diseases are often inherited and can cause progressive vision loss.

Some common eye diseases in Labradoodles include progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts. These conditions can lead to blindness if not addressed early on.

Take a look at this: Dog Eye Health Issues

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Symptoms of eye diseases in Labradoodles include loss of vision at night, loss of vision during the day, cloudiness of the eyes, and clumsiness. These symptoms can be subtle at first, but it's essential to catch them early to prevent further damage.

The good news is that some eye diseases, like cataracts, can be operated on if caught early. However, PRA is a progressive condition, and treatment is mostly focused on supporting the dog's vision with vitamins and nutrients.

Labradoodles are also prone to other eye diseases, such as retinal dysplasia. This condition can cause the retina to develop abnormally, leading to vision problems.

Here are some common symptoms of eye diseases in Labradoodles:

  • Loss of vision at night
  • Loss of vision during the day
  • Cloudiness of eyes and eyes turning gray
  • Clumsiness, bumping into things, walls, etc
  • Decreased pigment of the eyes
  • Unusually dilated pupils

Regular vet check-ups are crucial to detect eye diseases early on. By being vigilant and catching these conditions early, you can help prevent further damage and keep your Labradoodle's vision intact.

Cancer

Cancer is a common health issue in dogs, particularly in older dogs. Over ⅓ of deaths in older dogs is caused by cancer.

See what others are reading: Are Labradoodles Good Dogs

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Labradoodles, Golden Retrievers, and their crossbreeds, such as Goldendoodles, are all prone to cancer. In fact, the most common cause of deaths in Golden Retrievers is cancer, which suggests that Goldendoodles might be more prone to developing cancer as well.

Some common signs of cancer in dogs include lumps or bumps under the skin, bad odors from the mouth, ears, or bum, abnormal discharge from the eyes, ears, mouth, or bum, unexplained bleeding, and persistent wounds and sores.

Labradoodles and other breeds can develop various types of cancer, including skin cancer, which can be treated with medications, chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery, depending on the type and location of the cancer.

Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect early signs of cancer, and maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding overfeeding, and providing regular exercise can also reduce the risk of cancer in Goldendoodles.

Here are some common signs of cancer in dogs:

  • Lumps of bumps underneath or on the skin
  • Bad odors coming from the mouth, ears, or bum
  • Abnormal discharge from the eyes, ears, mouth, or bum
  • Unexplained bleeding
  • Persistent wounds and sores
  • Changes in appetite
  • Sudden weight loss
  • Changes in behavior and bathroom habits
  • Lethargy and depression
  • Abdominal swelling
  • Pain

Heart Disease

Heart disease is a common issue for many dog breeds, including Labradoodles, and can be caused by underlying conditions such as heart valve degeneration, irregular heart rate and rhythm (arrhythmia), and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

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The Morris Animal Foundation, which funds canine heart disease studies, urges pet parents to look for signs of heart disease. These signs include a persistent cough, fainting or collapse, difficulty breathing, fatigue, and behavior changes like loss of appetite or reluctance to engage in activities.

If you notice any of these signs, make an appointment with your vet so they can perform screenings such as chest X-rays, blood tests, and an echocardiogram (an ultrasound of the heart and nearby blood vessels).

The condition can be serious if left untreated, but thankfully there are many treatment options available, including diet therapy and medication.

Health Care

Regular vet visits are crucial to catch any health issues early on, especially for Labradoodles prone to sensitive stomachs. A balanced diet and avoiding abrupt changes can help prevent gastrointestinal problems.

Some common signs of digestive issues in Labradoodles include excessive gas, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain, and bloating. These symptoms can be a sign of a food allergy, food intolerance, or other underlying health issues.

Here are some potential causes of gastrointestinal issues in Labradoodles:

  • Food allergies and food intolerances
  • Diet too low in fiber
  • Abrupt changes in diet
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • Parasites and intestinal worms
  • Stress
  • Infections and illnesses
  • Travel
  • Parvovirus or bloating and gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV)

Pet Feeding

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Feeding your Labradoodle a balanced diet is crucial for their overall health and well-being. A well-balanced diet will help your pup maintain a healthy weight and avoid health conditions such as heart disease and hip dysplasia.

Labradoodles often have sensitive stomachs, which can be triggered by various factors, including food allergies and food intolerances. If your dog experiences stomach problems, it's essential to identify the underlying cause.

A good quality dog food should provide more than 40 nutrients that pets require in their respective life stages, including proteins, fats, carbs, and vitamins, minerals, and independent amino acids. Look for options approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Labradoodles should be fed a complete and balanced diet, including servings of food in the right amount, to prevent nutritional imbalances. A fresh, homemade diet formulated by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist is a great option, but it's essential to prepare the diet exactly as formulated.

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Here's a general feeding schedule for Labradoodles:

  • Puppies under 6 months old: Feed a minimum of three times a day
  • Adult dogs: Feed twice a day
  • Senior dogs: Feed according to your veterinarian's recommendations

Treats should make up only 10% of your dog's calorie intake and never replace a diet. It's also essential to avoid feeding your pup table scraps, which may be high in calories or fat.

By following these feeding guidelines, you can help your Labradoodle live a long and happy life. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations.

Telehealth Basics

Telehealth allows you to stay connected with your pets' health from your own home.

You can use veterinary telehealth to check in with your pet's health, similar to how you would use a video call to stay in touch with a friend.

Veterinary telehealth is convenient, as you can access your pet's care from anywhere with an internet connection.

With veterinary telehealth, you can get answers to your pet's health questions and receive guidance from a veterinarian remotely.

This can be especially helpful if you have a pet with a chronic condition or a pet that requires ongoing care.

By using veterinary telehealth, you can help keep your pet healthy and happy from the comfort of your own home.

Doodle Health

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Most Golden Doodles are prone to cancer due to their parent breed, the Golden Retriever, being a common cause of death from cancer. Limiting exposure to sun, smoke, and other harmful substances, and maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise can help prevent cancer.

Some common health issues in Aussiedoodles include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and multiple drug sensitivity. Regular vet visits and monitoring your Doodle's behavior can help catch these issues early on.

Goldendoodles tend to have fewer breed-specific diseases than their parent breeds, but they can still inherit health issues from either side. In some cases, these issues can be managed with proper care and treatment.

Here are some common health issues in Doodles:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems like cataracts, PRA or CEA
  • Multiple drug sensitivity
  • Cushing’s Disease
  • Epilepsy
  • Pancreatitis

It's essential to keep an eye on your Doodle's behavior and visit the vet regularly to detect any early signs of health issues.

Ear Care

Labradoodles are prone to ear infections due to their big, floppy ears, which can trap moisture and dirt. This creates a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast.

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Regular ear cleaning is essential to prevent dog ear infections. Thoroughly drying your dog's ears after each bath time or swim is also crucial.

You'll want to keep an eye out for smelly ears, as this is often a sign of an ear infection. Itchy ears and excessive scratching are also common symptoms.

Some common causes of ear infections in Labradoodles include allergies, hormonal imbalances, hair growth inside the ears, or ear mites.

The most common symptoms of dog ear infections include:

  • Shaking his head or tilting the head
  • Smelly ears
  • Itchy ears and excessive scratching of the ears
  • Swelling of the ears, fluid buildup (hematoma)
  • Redness in the ear
  • Yellow, brown, black, or bloody discharge inside the ear
  • Crusty or irritated ears
  • Pain and soreness

Untreated ear infections can develop into more serious health problems, such as otitis externa, otitis media, and otitis interna.

Labradoodle Health

Labradoodles are prone to certain health issues, and it's essential to be aware of them to provide the best care for your furry friend. One common issue is ear infections, which can be caused by their big, floppy ears that trap excess moisture and dirt. Regular ear cleaning and drying can help prevent this.

Close-Up Shot of a Labradoodle Lying Down
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Labradoodles are also at risk of developing eye problems, such as congenital conditions like progressive retinal atrophy and glaucoma. Keeping their bangs trimmed and an eye out for symptoms like impaired night vision and cloudy lenses can help.

Some common health issues in Labradoodles include ear infections, eye problems, and allergies. Regular veterinary check-ups and a clean living environment can help catch any issues early on.

Here are some common symptoms of ear infections in Labradoodles:

  • Dog shaking his head or tilting the head
  • Smelly ears
  • Itchy ears and excessive scratching of the ears
  • Swelling of the ears, fluid buildup (hematoma)
  • Redness in the ear
  • Yellow, brown, black, or bloody discharge inside the ear
  • Crusty or irritated ears
  • Pain and soreness

It's also worth noting that Labradoodles can be prone to other health issues, such as hip dysplasia and multiple drug sensitivity, which are common in Aussiedoodles. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help prevent or manage these issues.

Golden Doodle

The Golden Doodle is a popular crossbreed between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. They typically weigh between 40-80 pounds.

Their coat can be a variety of colors, including gold, white, black, and apricot. They have a low-shedding coat due to the Poodle influence.

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Golden Doodles are often prone to hip dysplasia, a genetic condition that affects the hip joint. This can lead to arthritis and mobility issues.

Their friendly and outgoing personalities make them great family pets. They are highly social and love to be around people.

Golden Doodles are generally easy to train due to their high intelligence and loyalty. They thrive on positive reinforcement and consistent training.

Take a look at this: Golden Labradoodles

Prevention and Care

To prevent Labradoodle health issues, it's essential to feed your pup a balanced diet that's high in essential nutrients. Our guide on the best dog food formulas for Labradoodles has plenty of high-quality choices that your pup will surely enjoy.

Excess weight can lead to obesity, which in turn can contribute to many diseases, including joint problems, diabetes, and more. Give your pup plenty of opportunities to exercise and move, as this will keep their joints healthy, provide them the chance for physical stimulation, and prevent obesity.

Investing in pet insurance is also a good idea, as certain Labradoodle health problems are bound to happen at one point or another, even if it's just a minor concern.

Skin Care

Labradoodle Sitting on Grass
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Labradoodles don't require a regular bathing routine, but they may need a splash in the shower or tub if they get dirty from playing outside.

For those times, use a hypoallergenic, soothing oat-based dog shampoo to keep their skin healthy.

Labradoodles can develop skin allergies due to their Poodle and Labrador Retriever heritage, which makes them more prone to skin issues.

Common allergens include protein sources like chicken, beef, dairy, eggs, fish, lamb, and pork, as well as high protein grains like wheat, rice, corn, oats, and barley.

If your Labradoodle develops skin allergies, look out for these symptoms:

  • Itchiness on skin, ears, or paws
  • Inflammation or swelling and redness on face, lips, ears, or paws
  • Hives, scabs, or crusty skin
  • Watery eyes
  • Runny nose
  • Excessive licking of the skin
  • Sneezing, coughing, and snoring
  • Vomiting and nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Hair loss and bald patches

Prevention Methods

To prevent Labradoodle health issues, make sure your pup eats a balanced diet that's high in essential nutrients, and feed the exact amount of calories it needs to avoid excess weight and obesity.

Choose a reputable, ethical breeder who prioritizes the health of parent dogs and puppies, with rigorous health and DNA testing, a safe environment, and plenty of love and care.

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Feeding your Labradoodle the right food at the right age is crucial - feed puppy food to puppies, adult food to adults, and senior food to seniors, and follow all feeding instructions to avoid increasing their risk of obesity.

A well-formulated diet of dry food or a diet provided by a veterinary professional is recommended, and you should follow feeding instructions to the letter.

Labradoodles need access to fresh water and a balanced diet to maintain a healthy weight and avoid health conditions like heart disease and hip dysplasia.

If you're unable or unwilling to cook for your dog, choose a World Small Animal Veterinary Association-compliant food, such as Purina ProPlan or Hill's Science Diet, and avoid boutique brand and grain-free foods.

Treats should make up only 10% of your dog's calorie intake and never replace a diet, and you should avoid feeding your pup table scraps, which can be high in calories or fat and even be dangerous.

Eye Care

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Labradoodles are prone to eye problems, so it's essential to keep their bangs trimmed to ensure their vision isn't obstructed. Regular grooming can help prevent hair from covering their eyes.

Genetic conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and glaucoma can cause impaired night vision and cloudy lenses, so monitor your pup's eye health closely. Pet parents should be aware of the symptoms and take action promptly.

Here are some common symptoms of eye diseases in Labradoodles to watch out for:

  • Loss of vision at night
  • Loss of vision during the day
  • Cloudiness of eyes and eyes turning gray
  • Clumsiness, bumping into things, walls, etc
  • Decreased pigment of the eyes
  • Unusually dilated pupils

Cataracts can be operated on if caught early, but PRA has no treatment other than providing eye-supporting vitamins and nutrients. Regular vet check-ups are crucial to monitor your pup's eye health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do vets say about Labradoodles?

Labradoodles are known for their friendly and outgoing nature, making them great family pets. They require daily exercise to burn off their playful energy.

What is the downside to a Labradoodle?

Labradoodles require a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy, making them unsuitable for people with busy lifestyles. Without enough physical activity, they may become restless, destructive, or develop depression.

Are Labradoodles high maintenance?

Yes, Labradoodles are considered high-maintenance dogs due to their high energy levels and grooming needs. They require regular exercise, training, and grooming to thrive.

What is the average lifespan of a Labradoodle?

The average lifespan of a Labradoodle is 12-14 years, but with proper care, some can live into their late teens.

Sources

  1. Labradoodle Health Issues And Diseases: An Overview (doodledoods.com)
  2. Veterinary Information Network (vin.com)
  3. Hill’s® Science Diet (chewy.com)
  4. Wikipedia (wikipedia.org)
  5. Labradoodle FAQs: Health, Grooming, and More (aspcapetinsurance.com)
  6. learn more (vcahospitals.com)
  7. learn more (mspca.org)
  8. learn more (akc.org)
  9. learn more (akc.org)
  10. subvalvular aortic stenosis (cornell.edu)
  11. cancer (aaha.org)
  12. Cataracts (webmd.com)
  13. obesity (vcahospitals.com)
  14. retinal dysplasia (vetstream.com)
  15. histiocytosis (vcahospitals.com)
  16. Cushing’s Disease (vcahospitals.com)
  17. Pancreatitis (akc.org)

Tina Tromp

Senior Writer

Tina Tromp is a passionate writer with a specialization in animal-related topics. With a keen interest in the human-animal bond, she has penned articles on dog training and canine therapy training, showcasing her expertise in the field. Her writing style is engaging, informative, and accessible to a wide range of readers.