Exercise-Induced Collapse in Labrador Retrievers

Clinical overview

Why Labrador Retrievers carry elevated Exercise-Induced Collapse risk

Exercise-induced collapse (EIC) is a DNM1-related syndrome common in Labrador Retrievers. Episodes look dramatic but are often recoverable—yet they are easily confused with cardiac syncope or heat stroke. Genetic proof plus an episode diary (temperature, duration, recovery) protects dogs from misdiagnosis and unsafe training regimens.

Watch list

Symptom checklist

• Weakness or wobbly rear limbs after 5–15 minutes of intense excitement
• Collapse with a clear mind (usually non-epileptic)
• Rapid recovery over 5–25 minutes with rest
• Triggers: retrieve drills, hot weather, high drive play
• DNM1 mutation positive or carrier status on genetic panel

Digital vault protocol

Emergency & longitudinal management

1. Store DNM1 genotype and counseling documentation
2. Build an episode log: ambient temp, activity type, duration, recovery time
3. Rule out cardiac and neurologic differentials; keep those workups adjacent
4. Modify training intensity; document what activity thresholds are safe
5. Share the EIC protocol with trainers, daycare, and competition organizers