What is a Labrador?
The sweet-faced Labrador is the most popular breed in America. They are friendly, brave and outgoing companions. They are found in different colors such as yellow, black and chocolate. The signature appearance includes wide head, glimmery eyes and otter tail. Labrador are sociable housemates who make strong bonds with family members and are also friendly with other dogs and humans alike. Labrador is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, followed by German Shepherd, poodle, chihuahua, dachshund, Yorkshire Terrier, pillbull and bulldog (see Wikipedia as reference). Moreover, they are prized as hunting and sporting dogs.
How Long Does Labrador Live?
The average lifespan of Labrador is between 10 to 14 years. This lifespan is for a healthy and fit dog, but there are many health issues that can reduce Labrador’s lifespan.
A recent study showed that chocolate Labrador has a shorter lifespan of average 10.7 years, which is less than black and yellow Labrador. There are many variables such as weight, breeding and health that are responsible for Labrador’s lifespan.
Common Health Problems that Reduce Labrador lifespan
Ear infection:
Ear infection is a common disease in Labradors. The floppy ears have a tendency to trap dust and moisture inside the ear. This condition increases the production of bacteria which causes ear infections in Labrador breeds. There are 3 main types of ear infection. The most common type is otitis externa which mainly affects the outer ear canal.
The common symptoms of otitis externa are:
- Discharge from ear
- Redness
- Inflammation
- Pain around the ear
- An odor
- Scratching the ear
If you notice any of these symptoms, you have to take your dog to the veterinarian for treatment.
Bloat:
Bloat is also known as gastric dilatation volvulus. Labradors are more prone to bloat which is a serious and life-threatening condition. Bloat is a condition in which a dog’s stomach is filled with gas, sometimes twisted and cutting off the blood flow. Bloat usually occurs when dogs eat an excess amount of food and plenty of water.
The symptoms of bloat are:
- Swollen belly
- Abdominal pain
- Signs of discomfort
- Puking
- Salivation
Obesity:
Labradors are food lovers and can do anything for tasty treats. This can help to make them easy to train, but it increases the risk of obesity and being overweight. Obesity is one of the common health issues that can affect the lifespan of Labradors.
A dog’s obesity is a serious issue because it can cause many other diseases including:
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Heart diseases
- Hypertension
- Arthritis
An obese dog has average 2.5 years shorter lifespan than a healthy dog. Genetics are associated with weight gain in Labradors, so it is important to give them a balanced diet.
Joint problem:
Labradors may suffer with joint problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia. These conditions badly affect the hip and elbow joint that stop normal movement and cause pain and immobility. It is not possible to completely treat dysplasia but the effects can be reduced by maintaining a healthy weight. There are also many supplements that are effective for treating joint problems.
Tips to Help Your Labrador Live Longer
If you want your Labrador to live a longer life then there are some tips that can help to increase their lifespan.
Ideal weight:
Labradors are very prone to overeating, so they can easily gain weight and become obese. Overeating and obesity can enhance the joint issues which are very painful. Therefore, maintaining the normal weight of your Labrador helps to reduce these severe joint problems. You have to ensure that you buy high quality food for your dog and also keep an eye on your dog’s weight.
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Neutering and spaying:
Neutering is the removal of male testicles while spaying is removal of female uterus and ovaries. Neutering and spaying eliminate the risks of testicles and uterine cancers that can help to reduce the further risk of developing hernias, breast cancer and other infections. So, neutering and spaying enhance the lifespan of Labradors.
Spaying your female Labrador helps to reduce the health problems that may affect the lifespan. While a neutered male Labrador does not go outside the home in search of mates, therefore the risk of injuries due to car accidents and fights with other dogs are reduced.
Exercise:
Exercise is also very effective for your dog’s health and also enhances the lifespan. Labradors need plenty of exercise to maintain their body weight and playful natures. Regular exercise also decreases conditions like stress and depression that will reduce the longevity of your Labrador.
Vaccination:
There are some diseases that kill unvaccinated dogs, so vaccination is important to prevent your Labrador from many diseases. Serious infections have the ability to prevent badly affecting your dog. In this case, vaccination is helpful to increase the lifespan of your dog. You see, just like children, these large breed dogs also need vaccines to protect themselves against viral and bacterial diseases. The vaccines can help protect your canines against contagious diseases such as canine distemper, parvovirus infection and respiratory tract infections but also protect against spreading to human such as rabies. Therefore, remember to always vaccinate your dog.
Joint supplement:
There are many supplements present for joint issues. Joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin help to treat many joint problems. If you give these supplements to your dog throughout the life, it will help to develop stronger tendons and cartilages. This can support the joints and reduce the risk of developing joint disorders.
If your dog is suffering from joint problems, these supplements help to reduce the symptoms and pain of the joint.
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Final Words on Labrador Life expectancy:
Labrador is a most common breed and for good reasons. They are mild tempered, easy to train, sociable, friendly and loyal companions. They need less care and attention when compared with other dog breeds. There is no way to find the exact lifespan of your Labrador. But it is possible for you to know about all health-related issues and the preventions.
You have to be very active about your dog’s health and also provide them with a happy life. These are some preventive measures that can help to reduce the risk of health issues. Moreover, regular visits to the veterinarian for regular checkups also help to diagnose health problems in advance. If you take care of your Labrador properly, there is a chance for you to enjoy many more years with your loving Labrador dog.
Remember to also check out how long do great danes live here.
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
