Golden Retriever Issues

Broadly, we can divide the Golden Retriever issues into two categories — medical and behavioral. Unfortunately, careless breeding by some backyard breeders and puppy mills Golden Retrievers have developed certain genetic disorders, such as aggression in nature and are susceptible to specific ailments. Common health problems include cancer, epilepsy, skin allergies, and hypothyroidism while separation anxiety is the most common behavioral problem. However, proper health care, nutritious food, regular exercise, and proper training can prevent the dog from any of the above mentioned Golden Retriever issues.

Cancer

Cancer of various types including hemangiosarcoma, lymphosarcoma, mast cell tumor, and osteosarcoma were the biggest killer of American Golden Retrievers, according to a survey conducted by Golden Retriever Club of America in 1998. The percentage of American Golden Retrievers dying due to cancer was as high as 61.4%. Most common among the cancers is hemangiosarcoma, whose treatment includes chemotherapy and removal of the tumor with the affected organ.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy also known as seizures is a hereditary disease normally occurring from viral infections and environmental factors. Foam at the mouth and dog seemingly chewing on something are the most prominent symptoms of this Golden Retriever issues. Though medicines are not always effective vets can recommend medicines that control recurring seizures. As a matter of prevention, dogs that have recurring seizures, should never be bred.

Skin allergy

Skin allergy is also a very common medical issue with Golden Retrievers. This happens because of allergens such as flea bites, dust, airborne pollen, food, and even mold. The symptoms of skin allergy issue include bits, scratching, licking, and even ear infections. It is said that proper food and physical care can prevent from such problems. There are also medicines to eliminate the risks of your pet getting a skin allergy.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism in Golden Retrievers causes its thyroid gland to malfunction, which can result in lower energy levels and weight gain. Golden Retrievers suffering from this disease will show symptoms including changes to the dog’s coat. Oral supplement for hypothyroidism on a daily basis is the best cure for the disease.

Congenital eye defects

Congenital eye defect is another common Golden Retriever issues. This breed suffers from hereditary cataracts which can develop at varying ages. Proper and early treatment can restrict the development of any serious problems. Golden Retrievers are also prone to Central Progressive Retinal Atrophy (CPRA), which progressively deteriorates the light reception in the dog’s eye.

Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is yet another common health issue of Golden Retrievers. This is a genetic joint disease related to arthritis. Proper caution should be taken when this happens because it sometimes affects Golden Retrievers muscles and can make them immobile.

Another aspect of Golden Retriever issues is behavioral. Separation anxiety is the most common issue. It is because of their friendly and amiable nature of Golden Retrievers come very close to their owners and when they have to leave they show resisting tendencies. Sometimes the owner reacts harshly and resulting in a change in terms of their personality negatively. The best way to deal such situation is to make the departure and arrival less noticeable. So, instead of showing extra love and affection before and after your exit just do the opposite, decrease interaction with your pet. Moreover, to distract the attention of your Golden Retriever, you can use some toys before you have to leave.