5 Common Golden Retriever Health Concerns
Golden Retrievers are one of the most good-natured, friendly four-footers you can find. These caring canines make excellent family companions or devoted loyal sidekicks, making them consistently one of the most popular dog breeds.
However, just like any dog, Goldens come with their own set of unique health challenges. Below, we’ll go over five common Golden Retriever health concerns to watch out for. That way, you can do everything you can to keep Buddy’s tail wagging.
1. Hip Dysplasia
One of the most common health concerns for Golden Retrievers and Golden mixes is hip and elbow dysplasia. This form of arthritis is caused by the deformation of the hip socket or the head of the femur and can lead to permanent degeneration and inflammation/pain throughout daily activities.
In severe cases, a dog affected with hip dysplasia may not be able to walk at all. Hip and elbow dysplasia can be cured with the help of surgery. Many Golden Retriever owners also prioritize giving their dogs hip and joint supplements on a regular basis as a form of preventative care.
2. Skin Conditions
Golden Retrievers have a gorgeous, majestic coat that’s multi-layered with a dense undercoat that can make an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Golden Retrievers are no stranger to skin allergies or infections partially due to their genetic predisposition. To keep your Goldie looking and feeling their best, make sure you’re staying up to date with best grooming practices and flea and tick preventatives.
Be sure to also be on the lookout for excessive hair loss, itching, or inflamed, irritated skin. If your Golden Retriever is biting or licking a certain area repeatedly, this might also be cause for concern. When in doubt, give your vet a call. Unfortunately, ruling out the cause of skin conditions can be a long, arduous process, so it certainly helps to have a trained professional by your side.
3. Cancer
Unfortunately, cancer is pervasive amongst Golden Retrievers. According to the Golden Retriever Club, about 60% of all Golden Retrievers will pass away from cancer or cancer-related illnesses, though the rate is slightly higher in males than females. While this is somewhat a genetic reality that comes with the breed, it reinforces the importance of taking your dog to the veterinarian on a regular basis.
Investing in check-ups at least twice a year with an accredited vet will ensure that your Golden is able to live a long, happy life. You’ll also increase the likelihood of catching the disease early on. As always, if you’re ever in doubt, take your Golden to a medical facility just to be safe.
4. Cataracts
Golden Retrievers are known to be more likely to develop cataracts as they age. These blindspots develop fairly gradually, which reinforces the importance of regular trips to your vet. Dogs are highly adaptable and can still live a loving, fulfilling life even with partial or full vision loss. That being said, cataracts can be removed through surgery so long as there is no retinal damage. Eye issues will usually develop somewhere around age four or five, so be sure to stay up to date on Fido’s clinical care routine.
5. Ear Infections
Almost every dog, especially puppies, experiences an ear infection at least once in their lifetime. Since Golden Retrievers have large, floppy (and cute!) ears, they may be more susceptible to developing infections on a frequent basis. Pay special attention to your Golden Retriever’s ears, especially after swimming or taking a bath. Keeping your Golden’s ears dry will help prevent infection and reinfection. If you see your reliable Retriever shaking their head or constantly itching their ears, it may be a sign that they’re ready for a cleaning.
Like any other dog, Golden Retrievers are susceptible to a variety of health ailments. However, with proper preventative care and regular visits to the veterinarian, your Golden is bound to live a dog-gone good life. After all, these furry lifelong friends are so worth it. Enjoy all the love your four-footed companion brings into your life.
