question about my dads 8 year old lab

[sheephead24]

My dad has an 8 year old female black lab, she is a great hunter, waterfoul and pheasant. only problem is she that lasts about 2 hours or so in the field before we stop her, she loves it so much she would probably run herself to death, but she gets very tired quickly. so we are trying to be careful with her, I think 8 sounds a little young for a dog to get this tuckered out, but this is our first experience with a hunting dog. how old are most dogs before they have to give it up and stay home? Thanks

[Bassman55]

We hunt with a yellow lab that is 10. He hunts hard, but would hunt himself to death. Sometimes we have to leave him in his kennel on the pickup, but it kills him to do that. My only suggextion would be to get her in as good as shape as you can before hunting season. She will last longer not carrying a bunch of extra weight around.

[SoldierGirl]

Have your veterinarian do a senior physical on the dog. 8 isn't too young to develop orthopedic issues like hip displaysia and arthritis. Does she seem sore and slow the day after a hunt? They will also listen to to her chest to make sure she hasn't developed a heart issue. This can make them exercise intolerant. I assume she has been on monthly heartworm preventative. If not definately get her in for bloodwork. Heartworms are fatal if not treated. Hopefully it will as simple as adding glucosamine to her diet to get the pep back in her step.