All about Wirehaired lab dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Wirehaired lab" BreedThe Wirehaired Lab, a captivating cross between the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever, is an emerging designer breed gaining popularity. Originating from two highly intelligent and active parent breeds, the Wirehaired Lab inherits a delightful blend of traits. Typically, these dogs are friendly, energetic, and loyal, making them excellent family pets. Their physical appearance often features a dense, wire-like coat – usually brown, black, or yellow – requiring moderate grooming to prevent matting, alongside the Lab’s build. They are not ideal for apartment living due to their high exercise needs; daily long walks, runs, or active play are essential. This breed thrives with owners who can provide consistent training and ample outdoor activity. Common health considerations, similar to their parent breeds, can include hip and elbow dysplasia, and eye conditions, making reputable breeders crucial for healthy puppies.

Wirehaired Lab Weight: Average Size & Healthy Weight for Wirehaired LabThe typical Wirehaired Lab weight for adults ranges from 50 to 80 pounds. Males tend to be on the higher end of this scale, often weighing between 60-80 pounds, while females usually fall into the 50-70 pound range. This average size is influenced by the weight ranges of its parent breeds, the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever. Maintaining a healthy weight for Wirehaired Lab is crucial for their overall well-being and longevity.

Curious about the Wirehaired lab height? When considering a "Wirehaired Lab" (a charming cross between a German Wirehaired Pointer and a Labrador Retriever), you can expect an adult dog to fall within a moderate to large size range. The average size of a Wirehaired Lab, measured at the shoulder, typically ranges from 22 to 26 inches (approximately 56 to 66 cm).

Wirehaired Lab Colors: A Comprehensive GuideThe Wirehaired Lab, a robust cross between the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever, exhibits a diverse range of coat colors. Understanding these variations is crucial for potential adopters and buyers, as color can influence both aesthetics and pricing.Common & AKC Recognized Wirehaired Lab Colors:The most frequently seen and AKC recognized Wirehaired Lab colors often lean towards the Labrador Retriever's classic palette, sometimes with the German Wirehaired Pointer's influence. These include:* Black: A solid, glossy black coat is very common and highly sought after.* Chocolate: Ranging from a milk chocolate to a dark, rich liver color, this is another popular and AKC accepted shade.* Yellow: This category encompasses a wide spectrum from light cream or almost white to a deep fox-red. All these variations are considered AKC recognized yellow Labrador colors and can appear in Wirehaired Labs.* Liver (Brown): Inherited from the German Wirehaired Pointer, a solid liver (often called brown) coat is a distinct possibility. This is considered an AKC standard color for the German Wirehaired Pointer.Rare & Exotic Wirehaired Lab Variations (Not AKC Recognized):Due to the genetic interplay of two distinct breeds, some rare coat types and exotic Wirehaired Lab variations can emerge, though these are not accepted for show by major kennel clubs like the AKC for either parent breed. These can include:* Silver: A diluted chocolate, appearing as a greyish-brown.* Charcoal: A diluted black, appearing as a dark grey.* Dilute Yellow (Champagne): A lighter, often pale yellow due to dilution genes.* Brindle: While not typical for Labs, brindle is present in some dog breeds. If the GWP lineage carried a hidden brindle gene (extremely rare for GWP), or if there's an undocumented cross, brindle could theoretically appear, though it would be exceptionally rare and not AKC recognized.* Parti-color or Piebald: Dogs with large patches of white and another color. While the German Wirehaired Pointer can have white markings, a true parti-color is not standard for either parent breed and would be a rare anomaly.* Merle: This highly distinctive pattern of mottled patches of color is not present in either the Labrador Retriever or the German Wirehaired Pointer breed standards. A Wirehaired Lab with merle would indicate a different breed in its ancestry or a very unusual mutation.When considering Wirehaired Lab colors, remember that the wirehaired coat texture itself is a defining characteristic, regardless of color. Pricing for Wirehaired Labs can vary significantly based on color, breeder reputation, health clearances, and demand, with rare coat types sometimes commanding higher prices due to their uniqueness, despite not being AKC recognized. Always prioritize health and temperament over specific exotic Wirehaired Lab variations.

The Wirehaired Lab, a cross between the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever, inherits a wonderful blend of traits. Expect a friendly and loyal companion with an intelligent and eager-to-please nature. Their sociable disposition makes them generally good with children and other pets, especially when raised together and properly socialized from a young age.When it comes to the temperament of the Wirehaired Lab, they are active and require regular exercise to stay happy and well-behaved. While they can adapt to apartment living if their exercise needs are consistently met, they truly thrive in homes with more space and a yard. They are highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement, making them an excellent choice for active individuals or families seeking a devoted and engaging canine partner. The Wirehaired Lab personality is characterized by its zest for life, intelligence, and affectionate nature.

The Wirehaired Lab temperament is a delightful blend, often exhibiting the best traits of its German Wirehaired Pointer and Labrador Retriever parents. These are generally friendly, sociable, and loyal companion dogs, eager to please their families.

Wirehaired Lab Care: Essential Daily Maintenance & Health TipsThe Wirehaired Lab, a robust cross of German Wirehaired Pointer and Labrador Retriever, requires consistent care to thrive. This breed is not brachycephalic, meaning it does not have the breathing issues associated with flat-faced breeds.Grooming Needs: Expect moderate grooming for your Wirehaired Lab. Their double coat typically sheds seasonally. Regular brushing (2-3 times a week, more during shedding periods) helps remove loose hair and prevents matting. Stripping or hand-plucking may be beneficial to maintain the wire texture, though not always strictly necessary for a pet. Occasional baths are sufficient, using a dog-specific shampoo.Exercise Requirements: Wirehaired Labs are active, high-energy dogs that need substantial daily exercise. Aim for at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity, including walks, runs, hikes, or active playtime. They excel in activities like fetch, swimming, and scent work. Without adequate exercise, they can become bored and destructive. This is not a low-energy dog breed.Dietary Considerations: A high-quality, age-appropriate dog food formulated for active, medium-to-large breeds is crucial. Monitor portion sizes to prevent obesity, as both parent breeds can be prone to weight gain. Consult your vet for specific dietary recommendations.Wrinkle and Ear Cleaning: While Wirehaired Labs typically don't have prominent wrinkles, their floppy ears do require regular attention. Check and clean their ears weekly to prevent infections, as moisture and debris can accumulate. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner and cotton balls.Climate Sensitivity: Due to their active nature and double coat, Wirehaired Labs can tolerate various climates but should not be left unsupervised in extreme heat or cold. Provide shade and fresh water in warm weather, and shelter in cold conditions. They are not brachycephalic, so breathing in heat is generally less of a concern than for breeds with flat faces, but overheating is still a risk for any active dog.Common Health Concerns & Health Tips for Wirehaired Lab: Be vigilant for common health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, eye conditions (e.g., progressive retinal atrophy), and certain cancers. Skin issues can sometimes occur, so monitor for dryness, rashes, or hot spots. Regular dental care, including brushing their teeth a few times a week and professional cleanings as needed, is vital for preventing periodontal disease. Weight management through proper diet and exercise is critical to prevent joint strain and other health problems. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection and preventative care.

The Wirehaired lab activity level is moderately high, reflecting its active hunting dog heritage. These intelligent and energetic dogs thrive with regular physical and mental stimulation.

I'd rate the "Size" trait of the "Wirehaired Lab" a 7. This breed typically falls into the medium to large range. Given its parentage, you can expect a dog with a solid, athletic build, often reaching 21-25 inches in height and weighing anywhere from 50 to 80 pounds, sometimes even more. Their body structure is usually muscular and sturdy, reflecting the working heritage of both German Wirehaired Pointers and Labradors. Compared to many other companion dogs, they are definitely on the larger side, considerably bigger than breeds like a Shih Tzu or a French Bulldog, and even larger than some medium breeds like a Beagle. While they are adaptable, their size and energy levels make them less ideal for apartment living unless given significant daily exercise and outdoor time. They are generally not the easiest for travel due to their dimensions, requiring ample space in a vehicle, and finding pet-friendly accommodations that can comfortably house a dog of their size might be a consideration. They are not well-suited for households with severe space constraints; a home with a yard or regular access to open spaces would be much more appropriate.

I'd rate the grooming requirements of a Wirehaired Lab at a 7. While not as demanding as some long-haired or hyper-allergenic breeds, they definitely aren't a wash-and-wear dog. Their wirehaired coat, inherited from the German Wirehaired Pointer, will require regular stripping or professional grooming every few months to prevent matting and maintain its texture and function. Without this, the coat can become dense, shed excessively, and lose its protective qualities. They will shed, though perhaps less than a pure Labrador, and regular brushing will help manage this. Given the Lab's potential for ear infections, routine ear cleaning will be important, and like all dogs, nail trimming and occasional bathing are necessary. While generally robust, some individuals might inherit the GWP's coarser hair which can be prone to matting if not managed, and Labs can be susceptible to allergies, which can manifest as skin issues. Overall, they require more frequent and specialized care than a smooth-coated dog, making them moderately high-maintenance in the grooming department.

I'd rate the "Exercise Requirements" of a Wirehaired Lab at a 9.This hybrid combines two breeds known for their high energy and working drive. The German Wirehaired Pointer is a robust hunting dog requiring significant daily activity to satisfy its instincts for tracking and retrieving, while the Labrador Retriever is equally renowned for its boundless enthusiasm and need for substantial physical exertion. A Wirehaired Lab will inherit this powerful combination. They are not a breed that thrives with minimal activity; in fact, a lack of structured exercise will likely lead to destructive behaviors, anxiety, and a generally unhappy dog. They will require daily vigorous exercise, likely an hour or more, including activities like brisk walks, running, hiking, retrieving games, and potentially swimming or agility. Their energy levels are consistently high, they have excellent tolerance for sustained movement, and they are built for endurance. There are no respiratory limitations due to brachycephalic anatomy to consider. To stay healthy and mentally stimulated, a Wirehaired Lab will absolutely require structured routines that allow them to expend their considerable energy and engage their intelligent minds.

I'd rate the "Wirehaired Lab" (German Wirehaired Pointer × Labrador Retriever) a 7 out of 10 for watchdog ability.This rating stems from a blend of traits inherited from its parent breeds. The German Wirehaired Pointer brings a good degree of alertness, a strong sense of its surroundings, and a tendency to bark at perceived threats or unusual occurrences. They are generally not shy and will often investigate strange noises or people. This contributes significantly to an early warning system. The Labrador Retriever, while known for its friendly and outgoing nature, is also an attentive breed. Labs are usually quick to notice unfamiliar faces or sounds and will often bark to alert their owners, even if their follow-up action is more curiosity than aggression.A Wirehaired Lab is likely to be quite attuned to its home environment. They will almost certainly bark to signal the arrival of strangers or unusual activity, providing a meaningful early warning. Their territorial instincts will be present, though perhaps not intensely aggressive. They are not likely to be a silent guardian; their vocalization will be a key component of their watchdog role. While they might not be the most intimidating in terms of physical deterrence, their consistent barking and alert posture would certainly serve as a deterrent for many opportunistic intruders, making them more than just a passive companion. They will offer a reliable first line of audible defense.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Dogs" trait of the Wirehaired Lab a 7 out of 10.Both parent breeds, the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever, are generally known for their sociable natures and adaptability. Labradors are famously friendly and often thrive in canine company, eager to play and engage with other dogs. German Wirehaired Pointers, while possessing a stronger prey drive than Labs, are also typically amiable and enjoy being part of a pack, often getting along well with other dogs if properly socialized.A Wirehaired Lab is likely to inherit a good degree of this sociability. They will generally be playful and enjoy interacting with other dogs, often adapting well to different sizes and energy levels, especially if introduced thoughtfully. They are less prone to unprovoked aggression or extreme dominance than some other breeds.However, the "7" rather than a "9" or "10" acknowledges a few important nuances. The German Wirehaired Pointer's hunting heritage means a potential for a higher prey drive, which, if not managed, *could* manifest as an issue with very small, fast-moving dogs in certain contexts, though this is more about prey drive than general canine incompatibility. Like all intelligent, energetic dogs, Wirehaired Labs benefit immensely from early and consistent socialization. Without it, any dog breed can develop behavioral issues. They thrive in canine company and generally seek out interaction, but like their GWP parent, they are also intelligent and can be assertive. While not typically dominant in an aggressive sense, they appreciate clear boundaries and consistent handling, which helps them understand their place in a multi-dog household. With proper introductions and ongoing socialization, they are likely to be excellent canine companions, but they aren't quite as universally "go with the flow" as, say, a golden retriever might be from day one without any prior experience. They require careful introductions with a focus on positive experiences to truly thrive in a multi-dog setting.

I'd rate the Wirehaired Lab's "Energetic" trait a solid 8 out of 10.This rating stems from the high-octane genetics of both parent breeds. The German Wirehaired Pointer is a quintessential working dog, bred for demanding field work, possessing incredible stamina, drive, and a need for constant engagement. Similarly, the Labrador Retriever, while often a beloved family companion, originated as a working retriever with immense energy and a love for activity. Consequently, a Wirehaired Lab will almost certainly inherit a strong prey drive, an insatiable desire to run and explore, and the endurance to keep going for extended periods. They are naturally active and far from laid-back compared to many other companion breeds, requiring substantial daily exercise, interactive play, and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. They excel in outdoor and athletic activities like hiking, swimming, and various dog sports. It's important to note that neither parent breed is brachycephalic, and therefore, the Wirehaired Lab will not have the anatomical limitations that affect stamina and exercise tolerance seen in short-nosed breeds. Their well-structured muzzles and efficient respiratory systems allow them to handle vigorous activity without the same concerns.

I would rate the training requirements of the Wirehaired Lab a 6 out of 10.While inheriting the Labrador's eagerness to please and general intelligence, the German Wirehaired Pointer influence brings a strong independent streak and a high prey drive. This combination means they are intelligent and can learn quickly, but they also possess a degree of stubbornness and can become easily distracted if their environment isn't engaging or if training isn't consistent. Their attention span, especially as puppies, will be moderate and they will thrive on varied, stimulating training sessions. They are generally responsive to commands once they understand them, but their high energy and working dog instincts mean that "understanding" often needs to be followed by "practice, practice, practice" in different scenarios. Positive reinforcement is highly effective with both parent breeds and will be crucial for the Wirehaired Lab, helping to build a strong bond and a desire to work with you. However, a lack of consistency or an uninspired training approach can quickly lead to them developing their own agenda. This breed is not ideal for an absolute beginner unless they are prepared to dedicate significant time and effort to consistent, structured training and socialization from a young age, potentially with the guidance of a professional trainer. They require an owner who understands the needs of a versatile sporting dog and can provide both mental and physical stimulation along with firm, fair, and patient handling.

The Wirehaired Lab, a mix of the German Wirehaired Pointer and Labrador Retriever, rates a solid 9/10 for playfulness. Both parent breeds are renowned for their high energy and love of interaction, and the Wirehaired Lab inherits these traits in spades. They are naturally spirited dogs, eager to engage in games, retrieve toys, and participate in any activity their human companions offer. Their typical activity level is high, requiring significant mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom. They thrive on attention and will often initiate playtime with enthusiasm, making them exceptionally fun-loving and engaging companions compared to more laid-back breeds.

Rating: 8/10The Wirehaired Lab, blending the German Wirehaired Pointer's devotion with the Labrador Retriever's renowned sociability, is a highly affectionate breed that thrives on human companionship. They exhibit a strong desire for physical closeness, often seeking out cuddles and leaning into their owners. Their loyalty is unwavering, and they are typically very sensitive to the emotions of their family members, readily offering comfort or mirroring their owner's mood. While they possess an independent streak, particularly when engaged in activities, their default setting is to be close to their people, often following them from room to room. They are not content to be mere background characters in a household; they want to be active participants in family life and genuinely blossom when showered with affection and included in daily activities. Compared to many other companion breeds, they are less likely to be "lap dogs" in the traditional sense due to their size and energetic nature, but their love for their owners is undeniably deep and expressed through constant engagement and a desire for connection.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the Wirehaired Lab a 7 out of 10.The Labrador Retriever parent contributes a generally good-natured and tolerant temperament, often exhibiting a friendly disposition towards other dogs and even cats, especially when raised with them. They typically have a lower prey drive compared to many other breeds. However, the German Wirehaired Pointer brings a stronger hunting instinct and a higher prey drive. While not inherently aggressive, a GWP's natural inclination is to chase small, fast-moving objects, which can be problematic with cats or smaller exotics.Wirehaired Labs will likely fall somewhere in the middle. They are generally intelligent and trainable, meaning that with proper early socialization and consistent training, they can learn to coexist peacefully with other pets. Supervision would be particularly important in multi-pet households, especially during the initial introduction phase and with smaller, more vulnerable pets. While resource guarding isn't a dominant trait in either parent breed, it can manifest in any dog, and training to prevent it is always beneficial. They are not naturally sociable to the extent of a Golden Retriever with a high prey drive GWP influence, but they are also far from being highly incompatible. They require intentional training and supervision to ensure a harmonious multi-pet environment.

The Wirehaired Lab, a mix of the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever, rates a 9 out of 10 for "Good with Children." This high rating stems from the combination of its parent breeds' excellent traits. The Labrador Retriever is renowned for its gentle nature, patience, and boundless energy, making it a classic family dog. It's naturally affectionate and thrives on interaction, often forming strong bonds with children. The German Wirehaired Pointer, while possessing a strong prey drive, is also known for its loyalty and trainability. When properly socialized from a young age, they are generally good-natured and tolerant.The Wirehaired Lab inherits this blend, resulting in a dog that is typically playful, patient, and good-natured with children of all ages. They tend to be tolerant of noise and the sometimes clumsy handling of young kids, and their high energy levels mean they can keep up with active families. While naturally gentle and affectionate, consistent training and early socialization are still crucial to ensure they understand boundaries and to manage their Pointer-inherited instinct to chase. Supervision is always recommended with any dog and young children, but the Wirehaired Lab is a breed that, with proper guidance, is exceptionally well-suited to a family setting and will likely be a beloved and protective companion.

Rating the "Good with Strangers" trait of the Wirehaired Lab, I'd give it an 8 out of 10. This breed, inheriting a blend of the German Wirehaired Pointer's protective instincts and the Labrador Retriever's renowned sociability, typically leans towards being quite friendly and welcoming with unfamiliar adults. They are generally outgoing and adaptable in public or guest-filled environments, often eager to greet and interact. While they might initially be a bit more reserved than a purebred Lab due to the Pointer's influence, this rarely escalates to unfriendliness. Their likelihood of barking or guarding is relatively low, unless they perceive a genuine threat, as their primary drive is often to be part of the family and engage with people. This breed is naturally inclined to be comfortable with strangers, though consistent early socialization, as with any dog, will always reinforce and enhance their naturally good temperament.

I would rate the Wirehaired Lab's winter tolerance at an 8 out of 10. This breed inherits a robust build and a dense, weather-resistant coat from both its German Wirehaired Pointer and Labrador Retriever parentage. The Wirehaired Pointer contributes a double coat designed for navigating harsh undergrowth and cold water, while the Labrador is renowned for its thick, insulating double coat and love of cold water. This combination results in a dog with excellent natural insulation. They typically possess a healthy amount of body fat and a medium to large size, further aiding their ability to regulate body temperature. There's no brachycephalic anatomy to compromise breathing in cold air. While generally very resilient, during extreme cold snaps or prolonged exposure, even this breed would benefit from a warm, sheltered resting place and might appreciate a coat for very long, inactive periods or for older/less active individuals, as is wise for most dogs. Compared to many companion breeds, they require less special care during winter months and can generally enjoy outdoor activities in cold climates safely, often thriving in such conditions, though responsible owners will always monitor for signs of discomfort in any weather.

Rating: 7The Wirehaired Lab, being a mix of a German Wirehaired Pointer and a Labrador Retriever, generally possesses a moderate to good tolerance for summer weather, earning a 7. Neither parent breed is brachycephalic, meaning they do not have the shortened snouts that significantly impede breathing and heat dissipation. Both GWP and Labs are active, robust breeds built for working outdoors, indicating a natural capacity to handle varying temperatures. Their double coats, while providing insulation in winter, can also offer some protection from the sun's rays in summer, but this also means they can overheat if not managed properly. They are capable of regulating their body temperature reasonably well through panting, but their energetic nature means they can easily push themselves to the point of overheating if not monitored.While not extremely sensitive, they are certainly at risk of heatstroke if overexercised or left in hot environments without access to shade and water, just like most active dogs. Recommended outdoor activity levels in summer should be adjusted; early mornings or late evenings are best for strenuous exercise, with shorter, less intense outings during the hottest parts of the day. They do require special care in summer months compared to more heat-tolerant breeds (e.g., those with single coats or desert origins) and require more attention than very sedentary breeds. This includes ensuring constant access to fresh water, ample shade, and avoiding intense exercise during peak heat. While not necessarily needing constant climate control, they certainly benefit from being indoors in air conditioning or a cool environment during the hottest parts of the day, especially if they are particularly active or prone to getting warm easily. Owners should be vigilant for signs of overheating and be prepared to cool their dog down quickly.

I'd rate the "Wirehaired Lab" (German Wirehaired Pointer × Labrador Retriever) a 7/10 for "Healthiness."This rating reflects a generally robust and healthy breed, benefiting from the genetic diversity of two popular working dog breeds. Both parent breeds are known for their athleticism and vigor, which typically translates to a hybrid with good stamina and fewer of the extreme conformational issues sometimes seen in highly specialized breeds.However, a 7 acknowledges that they are not entirely immune to health concerns. Like both Labs and GWP, they can be predisposed to certain orthopedic issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia. Eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), can also be a consideration. Bloat, a serious and life-threatening condition, is a risk in deep-chested breeds like the GWP and can be passed on to the Wirehaired Lab. While generally not prone to breathing difficulties, their denser coats can make them susceptible to overheating in hot climates if not properly managed. Skin conditions are less common but can occur, especially if their wiry coat isn't maintained or if they have allergies.Their life expectancy is generally good, typically in the 10-14 year range, similar to their parent breeds. Responsible breeding practices, including health clearances for hips, elbows, and eyes in parent dogs, significantly mitigate the risk of these inherited conditions. With proper nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary care, a Wirehaired Lab can enjoy a very healthy and active life. They are generally considered robust and not particularly high-maintenance in terms of health compared to some other companion dogs, though their active nature does require consistent exercise to prevent obesity and related health issues.

I would rate the "Protective" trait of the Wirehaired Lab as a 6.The Wirehaired Lab inherits a blend of protective instincts from its parent breeds. The German Wirehaired Pointer brings a more inherent "watchdog" quality, with strong alertness and a tendency to be reserved with strangers, often letting out a warning bark. They are loyal to their families and will often position themselves between their owners and perceived threats. The Labrador Retriever, while incredibly loyal and protective of its family, generally tends to be more outgoing and friendly towards strangers, often greeting them with a wagging tail rather than suspicion.Therefore, the Wirehaired Lab is likely to be an excellent watchdog, alert to its surroundings and quick to bark at anything unusual or anyone approaching the home. Their loyalty to their owners is very strong. However, their territorial instincts are somewhat moderate. While they will certainly bark and might display some cautiousness with strangers, especially when their family is involved, they are generally not aggressive by nature. They are more likely to be a deterrent through their vocalizations and size rather than a true guard dog capable of offering meaningful physical protection against an intruder. They are very much companion dogs, and while they would certainly act as a barrier and alert system, their protective actions would likely stop short of an attack.

I'd rate the "Life Span" trait of the Wirehaired Lab a 7 out of 10.This rating places them in the average to slightly above-average longevity category for companion dogs. Both parent breeds, the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Labrador Retriever, generally have good lifespans for their size, typically ranging from 10 to 14 years. Wirehaired Labs inherit this robust genetic foundation. While they can be prone to some of the common health issues of their parent breeds, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, and certain eye conditions, responsible breeding practices help to mitigate these risks. With good care, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and preventative veterinary check-ups, a Wirehaired Lab can enjoy a healthy and fulfilling life into their early to mid-teens, making them a relatively long-lived breed compared to some giant or extremely small breeds with more pronounced genetic predispositions to serious health problems.