As adorable as these loving animals can be, their health is prone to problems just like any other dog breed, and there are a number of Golden Retriever health problems you need to be aware of as an owner.
There is nothing sadder to see than an animal suffering from pain or sickness, so take the time to learn what to expect as a pet owner, and more specifically about your particular breed of dog. Lets take a look at the most common Golden Retriever health problems.
6 Golden Retriever Health Problems To Be Aware Of
Allergies: Allergies, especially flee allergies, are particularly common in all long haired dog breed and our Golden is no exception. Good hygiene and flea control medication are the best ways to combat fleas infesting your dog. The occasional check-up with your local vet won’t go amiss either, and will help to control other Golden Retriever health problems too.
Cataracts: Cataracts are a condition when the usually clear lens covering the eyes becomes cloudy causing a loss in vision – anything form a slight impediment to complete blindness can occur. The primary symptom of cataracts is a cloudy look in the eye, leaving the eye looking a misty white color.
Infections: As active as this dog is, it’s quite common to see a variety of infections throughout your dogs life. While infections can attack her eyes or skin, the most common cases are ear infections in the Golden Retriever. Maintaining a healthy and clean Golden is your best defense against these kinds of Golden Retriever health problems.
Obesity: As a very active breed of dog the Golden requires a large amount of physical activity, and a corresponding amount of food. If the balance between the two isn’t strictly maintained you can find your dog getting heavier and becoming less active. As with people, obesity in Golden Retrievers can lead to many other health problems such as cancer and heart related issues.
Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia (canine) is, regrettably, quite common in the Golden Retriever breed. Golden’s have long narrow joints making their hips susceptible to injury and conditions such as this. A proper diet augmented with appropriate supplements can help reduce the chance of this most common of Golden Retriever health problems presenting itself.
Diabetes: Dog, as well as humans, are prone to diabetes as a result of an improperly balanced diet maintained over long periods of time. Again, balancing your Retrievers diet is essential to maintaining a healthy dog that lives through to maturity with as few health related problems as possible.
Avoiding Golden Retriever Health Problems
As you will note above, most health issues can be avoided, or the effects reduced, through proper care and knowledge on the part of the dog owner. Providing daily exercise and activities combined with a well-balanced diet is the best way of preventing serious Golden Retriever health problems, especially as your Golden ages.
Interesting Fact: Golden Retrievers love to play in water and enjoy getting wet and muddy. Just remember to bathe them afterwards!
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