Labradoodles are no doubt one of the most adorable dog breeds. Over the last few years, their popularity has skyrocketed, not only because of their adorable faces and curly locks. Labradoodles are also incredibly smart, loyal, and friendly. They are also low-shedding and hypoallergenic, a trait they’ve inherited from their Poodle parentage.

 

Unfortunately, because Labradoodles are a cross between a Poodle and a Labrador they do have associated health challenges. Labradoodles are more susceptible to common diseases and ailments that plague larger breeds of dogs like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Likewise, Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles will also be more likely to get hip dysplasia and arthritis. In this article we will cover signs and symptoms of hip dysplasia and arthritis as well as ways to help a pup with these conditions regain mobility.

One great option for supporting and stabilizing the hip joint in Labradoodles with hip dysplasia or arthritis is the Ortho Dog Hip Hound Brace.

 

Labradoodles and Hip Dysplasia

Canine hip dysplasia (CHD) is a malformation of the hip joint where the ball and socket do not fit together normally and the bones rub together causing pain in instability. Larger dogs can be more susceptible to CHD because of their growth rate. They grow larger and heavier more quickly, which can cause hip joint development issues.

While hip dysplasia can affect any breed or size of dog, genetics is an important factor contributing to the development of hip dysplasia. Labradors have a genetic predisposition to hip dysplasia that can be passed on to Labradoodles.

 

Preventing Labradoodle Hip Dysplasia

Labradoodle dog breeders can prevent the spread of hereditary hip dysplasia by screening dogs for the disease as well as conducting health testing that rates dogs’ hip joints. Ask your Labradoodle breeder if they have documentation regarding hip health and hereditary diseases.

If your Labradoodle is genetically predisposed to CHD it’s important to keep your dog fit and healthy, as excess weight may cause your Labradoodle to develop hip dysplasia earlier.

Support for Hip Dysplasia

If your Doodle is showing signs of hip dysplasia, bracing is one way to restore mobility and comfort for your pup. Ortho Dog's Hip Hound Brace provides a gentle upward and forward tension which helps keep the femur head in it's place in the hip socket providing greater ease of movement and preventing further degenerastion of the joint.

 

Arthritis in Labradoodles

Arthritis is a progressive condition that causes inflammation and damage to the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It's estimated that up to 20% of all dogs will develop arthritis at some point in their lives. While arthritis is one of these most common conditions in older dogs, it is not inevitable for all dogs as they age.

According to Dr. Brad Bennett, lecturer at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences

”There are two types of arthritis; primary and secondary. Primary osteoarthritis is a disorder in which the cartilage in the bone degenerates as the dog ages. Secondary arthritis, which is more common than primary, occurs secondary to joint disease, abnormal pressure on the cartilage surfaces of the joint, or joint instability”

Supporting Arthritis in Labradoodles

Early detection is important, so be sure to take your Doodle to regular vet check-ups. Your veterinarian may recommend joints, supplements, and holistic interventions to support joint health. and appropriate management can help slow the progression of arthritis and improve your Labradoodle’s quality of life. This may involve lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and exercise modification, as well as medication, joint supplements, and using a brace to support the affected joint.

Ortho Dog has several braces that can support a Doodle suffering from Arthritis. Talk to your vet about which brace may be right for you. Learn more about Arthritis Support.

Labradoodles and Elbow Dysplasia

There is no clear consensus on whether Labradoodles are more likely to develop elbow dysplasia compared to other breeds. Elbow dysplasia is a hereditary condition that affects the development of the elbow joint and can lead to arthritis and pain.

Elbow dysplasia is a complex trait that can be influenced by multiple genetic and environmental factors. This means that the risk of elbow dysplasia can vary widely even within the same breed.

As with hip dysplasia risks, regular veterinary check-ups and keeping your labradoodle happy and healthy may help reduce the risk of elbow dysplasia and other joint problems.