Working Dogs Have Unique Health Risks

The physical and psychological demands placed on a working assistance dog are substantially greater than those on a typical pet. Daily public access work, sustained attention, harness wear, and the responsibility of performing tasks reliably in stimulating environments all create stressors that, over time, can manifest as health problems. Understanding these risks — and taking preventive action — is essential for any assistance dog handler.

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

What it is: Abnormal development of the hip or elbow joint, leading to pain and progressive osteoarthritis. Highly prevalent in Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds — three of the most common assistance dog breeds.

Prevention: Source dogs from breeders who screen for hip and elbow scores through BVA/KC schemes. Maintain lean body weight throughout life — every extra kilogram accelerates joint deterioration. Avoid high-impact exercise (jumping, rough play) in young dogs before growth plates close (typically 12–18 months). Regular vet assessment allows early intervention with pain management, physiotherapy, or hydrotherapy.

Dental Disease

What it is: Tartar build-up, gum disease, and tooth decay. Affects the majority of UK dogs over three years old.

Prevention: Daily tooth brushing with dog-safe toothpaste is the single most effective preventive measure. Dental chews and certain diets help but are not substitutes. Annual dental examinations and periodic professional scaling under anaesthesia when needed.

Ear Infections

What it is: Otitis externa (inflammation of the outer ear canal), often bacterial or yeast-related. More common in floppy-eared breeds such as Spaniels and Labradors.

Prevention: Regular ear checks (weekly), keeping ears dry after swimming or bathing, and cleaning with a vet-recommended ear cleaner. Avoid over-cleaning, which can disrupt the normal ear environment.

Stress and Psychological Burnout

What it is: Chronic stress from sustained working demands, inadequate rest, or exposure to environments the dog finds aversive. Can manifest as increased reactivity, shutdown behaviour, loss of task motivation, or physical symptoms including digestive issues and skin problems.

Prevention: Ensure daily off-duty time where the dog can relax without the working harness and without handler expectations. Monitor stress signals (yawning, lip-licking, displacement behaviours, tension in the body). Regular rest days. Annual behavioural review with a qualified trainer or behaviourist. Retirement planning — most assistance dogs work 6–8 years and should have a secure, comfortable retirement home arranged in advance.

Obesity

What it is: Overweight condition that accelerates joint disease, reduces stamina, and increases risk of diabetes and heart disease.

Prevention: Weigh food portions rather than estimating. Treat calories count — factor training treats into daily allowance. Regular weight checks at the vet. Adjust food intake as the dog ages and activity levels change.

Skin and Coat Problems from Harness Wear

What it is: Rubbing, pressure sores, or contact dermatitis from ill-fitting harnesses worn for extended periods.

Prevention: Ensure the harness fits correctly and is professionally fitted. Check regularly for rub marks, hair loss, or redness under harness contact points. Remove the harness during rest periods. Clean the harness regularly.

Paw Pad Injuries

What it is: Cuts, abrasions, cracking, and burns to paw pads from working on varied terrain, hot pavements, or gritted winter roads.

Prevention: Regular paw inspections. Paw balm in dry conditions. Avoid walking on very hot tarmac in summer (the 5-second test: if you cannot hold your hand on the surface for 5 seconds, it is too hot for your dog's paws). Rinse paws after winter walks to remove grit and road salt.