subject: Golden Retriever Health Problems Are Not Common [print this page] Golden Retriever Health Problems Are Not Common
Golden Retriever health means gobs of exercise, regulated amount of food and plenty of time with family. But there are a number of things you should look out for if you own a shiny new golden retriever. They are after all an extremely popular dog for good reason. The truth is they don't really have a long list of health problems like some dogs do.
For the most part you will probably get a good ten to fourteen years from your golden retriever with no health issues whatsoever. But dogs, like people, occasionally have some health problems.
You should know what to look out for with your dog and you should know what to ask your breeder if you have decided to acquire one from a breeder.
Cataracts - Goldens can get cataracts. It's virtually the same condition that people get and can be spotted by your vet. It can also be solved with surgery which is great.
Arthritis - Again, this is the same affliction that people can get and it affects their joints in limbs in pretty much the same manner. Your vet can provide some relief with injections in their joints.
Hip Problems(dysplasia) - This is one of the most common problems that golden's especially purebreds, can have with their health. In fact it's most likely the number one golden retriever health issue. You must make sure that the breeding stock your golden was sourced from have been screened for this. It's essentially a problem with the way the femur attaches to the socket. Pups will sometimes grow out of it.
Epilepsy - This is a neurological problem with Goldy's brain. It can cause seizures or blackouts and some bizarre behavior. With dogs, as with people, it can be controlled very well with medication.
Cancer - Every mammal on the planet is prone to this disease and dogs, particularly golden retrievers, are no different. There is no cure, though there are some homeopathic remedies that can help. They can get it in their blood and lymph nodes.
Golden Retriever Health problems tend to be rare. They tend to be a pretty healthy dog and have had a history of living 10 to 14 years. With regular screenings and checkups at your vet, inoculations, good food and exercise, you dog will live a long time with no problems.
Make sure also that you tend to your Goldens mental health. They need to be stimulated and they need to be around people quite a bit. This way you will have a well balanced dog that is happy and healthy.
