At Spot Pet Insurance, we understand that every breed has unique characteristics and potential health challenges. To better equip pet parents, our data analysts have combed through our records from 2019 to 2025, revealing insightful health trends in Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and French Bulldogs. This blog spotlights the key findings, offering a data-based view of breed-specific health concerns and their impact on your furry companions. We'll explore the breed characteristics that make these dogs so beloved while shedding light on the health realities our data reveals.
Golden Retriever: Breed Characteristics
Golden Retrievers originated in the Scottish Highlands in the mid-19th century, thanks to Sir Dudley Marjoribanks (later Lord Tweedmouth). He sought to create a reliable gun dog capable of retrieving game over land and water. Their "gentle mouths," a trait developed for retrieving birds without damaging them, are legendary. In fact, a well-trained Golden can carry a raw egg without breaking it! These dogs are also natural swimmers, with webbed toes and water-repellent double coats. Known for retaining their puppy-like playfulness throughout their lives, Goldens are cherished family dogs.
The Health Reality: Cancer and More
While Golden Retrievers are known for their golden hearts, they also face significant health challenges, particularly concerning cancer. Studies have shown a concerning trend:
High Cancer Prevalence: A study published by the University of California in October 2023 indicated that Golden Retrievers are the most likely breed to develop cancer, with 65% expected to be affected in their lifetime1.
In addition, our internal data at Spot pet insurance reveals some key trends*:
2x more likely than other breeds to file a claim related to cancer.
94% more likely to file a claim for ear conditions.
92% more likely than other breeds to file a claim for foreign object ingestion.
36% more likely to file a claim for gastrointestinal conditions.
Labrador Retriever: Breed Characteristics
Despite being called Labrador Retrievers, they originated in Newfoundland, Canada, where they assisted fishermen by retrieving fish. Labs have partially webbed toes and thick "otter tails," making them strong swimmers. Known for their hearty appetites, they are food enthusiasts, which makes them highly trainable. The American Kennel Club recognizes three coat colors: Black, Yellow, and Chocolate, each with various shades.
Health Concerns: Joints and More
While Labs are generally healthy, they are prone to certain health issues*:
Hip Dysplasia and Elbow Dysplasia: Genetic conditions affecting joint formation
Osteoarthritis: Joint inflammation leading to pain and stiffness
Lipoma: Benign fatty tumors
Kennel Cough: A contagious respiratory infection
Ear conditions
Lameness
Foreign Object Ingestion
Gastrointestinal Issues
Internal data from Spot pet insurance shows that Labrador Retrievers are*:
2x more likely to submit a claim for kennel cough
50% more likely to submit a claim for ear conditions
52% more likely to submit a claim for foreign object ingestion
44% more likely to submit a claim for lameness
French Bulldog: Breed Characteristics
Despite their name, French Bulldogs originated in England, not France. They were developed from English bulldogs and became popular in France when lace workers migrated there. Known as "clown dogs" for their comical antics, Frenchies are typically quieter than other small breeds, though they do snort, snore, and "talk" in their own way. One notable trait is their "bat ears," which became the breed standard. Due to their compact bodies and short snouts, French Bulldogs aren't strong swimmers, so extra care is needed around water.
Health Challenges: A Brachycephalic Breed
French Bulldogs, being brachycephalic (short-faced), are prone to a range of health issues. Research from the Royal Veterinary College found that 72% of French Bulldogs develop at least one of the following health issues1:
Ear infections: Trapped moisture leads to bacterial or yeast infections.
Dermatitis: Skin allergies and irritation cause itching and redness.
Pyoderma: Bacterial skin infection with pustules and inflammation.
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS): Breathing difficulties due to their flat faces and shortened airways.
Upper Respiratory Infections: Prone to infections due to compromised airways.
Mobility Issues: Spinal and joint problems cause pain and lameness.
Internal data from Spot pet insurance shows that French Bulldogs are*:
4x more likely to file a claim for neuro-muscular disorders
114% more likely to file a claim for Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
69% more likely to file a claim for allergies
56% more likely to file a claim for dermatitis
30% more likely to file a claim for other skin conditions
66% more likely to file a claim for back or neck pain
55% more likely to file a claim for an unspecified skin irritation
28% more likely to file a claim for a skin condition
19% more likely to file a claim for ear conditions
Our analysis of Spot pet insurance data provides a clear picture of the healthcare trends impacting Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and French Bulldogs. While each breed brings unique joy and companionship, understanding their predispositions is crucial for responsible pet ownership. The data highlights the importance of proactive care, including regular veterinary checkups, balanced diets, and breed-specific preventative measures. Moreover, the frequency and nature of claims across these breeds highlight the value of pet insurance. By being informed and prepared, pet parents can help make sure their beloved companions lead healthier, happier lives.
Visit spotpet.com to learn more about our dog insurance plans.
StreamZ Global. “Golden Retrievers | Commonly Found Health Issues with Golden Retriever Dogs.” StreamZ (USA), 8 Jan. 2024, us.streamz-global.com/blogs/articles/golden-retrievers-commonly-found-health-issues-with-golden-retriever-dogs.
Team, Walkin Pets. “The Most Common Health Problems in Frenchies.” Walkin’ Pets, Walkin’ Pets, 12 Oct. 2024, walkinpets.com/blogs/blog/common-health-problems-in-frenchies?srsltid=AfmBOopFVlRdHSRWkoKcd6uD28WSIc5JMu-m5MguPYyd8IoVbXgl5i2G.
*2019-2025 Spot Pet Insurance Services, LLC internal claims data
