Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 15th July 2021
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Labrador retrievers at significant risk of arthritis, research finds
The study found that Labrador retrievers are at greater risk of arthritis, lipoma and kennel cough.
Study uncovers most common conditions affecting this popular breed.

Labrador retrievers have a significantly increased risk of developing arthritis, according to new research published by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC).

The VetCompass study of 1,462 Labrador retrievers and 20,786 non-Labrador retrievers, reveals the 35 most common disorders across both groups of dogs, including ear infection and obesity.

Through their analysis, the team found that Labrador Retrievers have a higher risk of 12 out of 35 of the disorders, and a lower risk of seven out of 25 of the disorders. 

It is hoped that the findings, published in Scientific Reports, will help owners understand what health conditions to look for to seek veterinary advice.

Welcoming the study, Bill Lambert, health, welfare and breeder services executive at The Kennel Club, said: “There are estimated to be well over one million Labradors in the UK, and whilst it’s important to remember that this study is just a small percentage of these dogs that have visited a vet, it remains a valuable addition to our Kennel Club breed-specific research base which protects Labrador health, both now and in the future.” 

Labrador retrievers are one of the UK’s most popular dog breeds, but up to now, vets have had a limited understanding about their general health compared to other dogs.

In the study, researchers compared the risk in Labrador Retrievers to the risk in all other dogs for a range of common disorders, to identify those to which they are predisposed or protected.

They found that Labradors are fairly unique when compared to other dog breeds - with a significantly increased risk of arthritis, lipoma, kennel cough and laceration. Stiffness, papilloma and moist dermatitis were also noted as significant concerns for Labradors, as were obesity, lameness, post-operative wounds, ear infections and diarrhoea.

The disorders that Labradors were found to have a lower risk of were patellar luxation heart murmur, flea infestation, retained deciduous tooth, dental disease, aggression and anal sac impaction.

Dr Dan O’Neill, senior lecturer in companion animal epidemiology, at the RVC said: “As we move into the knowledge economy where information has become the new oil or gold, we can now empower owners to care better for their dogs by sharing knowledge freely. The results of this VetCompass study provide owners of Labrador Retrievers with key information to spot diseases earlier in their dogs. Truly, sharing is caring.”

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.