from the dog health hub
Labrador Retriever Health: Sensitivities and What to Feed
the short version
- Skin allergies and itching
- Weight gain and a bottomless appetite
- Ear infections, often secondary to allergies
Labradors are robust dogs, but two things dominate the health conversation: their famous appetite (and the weight that follows) and a genuine tendency toward skin allergies. Both are manageable with the right feeding approach.
What to feed a sensitive Labrador Retriever
For an itchy Labrador, a novel protein that removes the common triggers is the priority, in a portion-controlled amount to manage that appetite. Because Labs will eat anything, household discipline matters more than usual during a trial. Weigh food, count treats within the daily calories, and consider a lower-calorie novel-protein option.
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Why Labrador Retrievers are prone to it
Labradors carry a well-documented genetic quirk that makes many of them permanently hungry, which is why the breed tops obesity charts. Separately, they are among the breeds most commonly seen for allergic skin disease. The two interact: an overweight Labrador on a rich, common-protein diet is a familiar picture in veterinary skin clinics. Their appetite also means they hoover up anything, so accidental exposure to trigger foods during a trial is a real risk.
What owners actually report
Labrador owners describe two recurring stories: the dog that gains weight on a look, and the dog with relentless itchy skin and ear trouble. Where itching is the issue, owners frequently report improvement after moving off chicken and onto a novel protein, combined with tight control of treats and scraps. The appetite is the wildcard, because one stolen chicken-flavoured chew can quietly reset a food trial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Labradors prone to allergies?
Yes, they are one of the breeds most commonly seen for allergic skin disease. Itchy skin, paw licking and recurring ear infections are the usual signs. Food is one driver, confirmed by an elimination diet.
How do I stop my Labrador gaining weight?
Weigh meals rather than eyeballing them, keep all treats within about 10 percent of daily calories, and use low-calorie options like carrot. The breed's genetic hunger is real, so structure beats willpower. Our protein guide covers portioning.
What is the best food for a Labrador with itchy skin?
A single novel protein avoiding chicken and beef, portion-controlled for the breed's appetite. Give it a full 8 weeks and keep the household strict, because a Lab will undo a food trial with one stolen treat.
Keep reading
Food allergies in dogs: the full picture →The elimination diet, step by step →Back to the Dog Health Hub →This is general breed information, not a diagnosis of your individual dog. Breed tendencies are just that, tendencies. If your dog is unwell, your vet knows them best.