Common Medical Problems in Golden Retrievers
Golden retrievers are generally healthy dogs, with
strong and sound constitutions. They are extremely popular
as family pets. However, there are some medical problems
of Golden retrievers that all Golden owners should know.
These are inherited by the golden retriever in its genes
and are quite common. So, if you're planning to get
yourself a golden retriever puppy, be sure to get a
well-bred puppy from a reputed breeder.
The truth is, that poor breeding of the golden retriever
has tarnished its reputation without any fault of the
breed. Here are some commonly found medical problems
of Golden retrievers.
Hip Dyslapsia
In Golden retrievers this is a common problem, which
occurs because of a malformed joint. It causes the better
part of the femur to not be properly aligned with the
cup of the hip socket. This is one of the medical problems
of Golden retrievers, which can range from mild to relatively
severe.
It is not something to worry about, and with proper
diet and exercise your dog will be able to lead a completely
normal and active life. In extremely rare circumstances,
surgical correction or euthanasia are required as a
last resort.
Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD)
OCD is a bone formation disorder, which takes place
due to a defect in the transition of cartilage into
bone, while the dog is growing up. Research has shown
this condition to be genetic and it appears more commonly
in some lines of Golden retrievers than others. Environmental
factors can also contribute to aggravating this problem.
Panosteitis
This medical problem of Golden retrievers affects them
in their early age when they are 5 to 14 months old.
Also referred to as wandering lameness, it causes sudden
lameness in dogs.
Epilepsy
This too is a hereditary disorder, which causes seizures.
There is no cure, but it can be controlled with medication.
This medical problem of Golden retrievers allows them
to lead a very normal life. But they should not be placed
in very stressful situations, and most certainly should
not be bred if they have epilepsy.
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).
(PRA), and central (PRA) are among the most common retina
based problems found in Golden retrievers. Symptoms
begin to manifest in dogs around the age of two and
degenerative in nature. Sadly, this condition is also
hereditary. So it is wise to make sure that both parents
do not have this problem before you consider picking
up a pup born to them.
Ear care
It's a good idea to continuously clean your dogs ears,
as they are likely to pick up a lot of dust and dirt
when they are out. This way they would not pick up any
ear infections.
Juvenile cataracts
This particular medical problem of Golden retrievers
is also hereditary and is also a fact you should look
out for when looking to purchase a golden retriever
pup.
Seborrhea
Primary sebhorrea is a medical problem of Golden retrievers,
which gives them yellowish brownish scales, a greasy
coat, and an irritable itchy skin with a foul smell.
You can take your dog to your vet to get this problem
treated, as it is not too serious.
Just buy a golden retriever from a reputed breeder and
do some checks on the pups mother and father and you
will be fine! If your golden retriever develops a disease
at an older age, do not worry. Just take it to the Vet.
Lastly, keep your golden clean and take good care of
it!
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