Most Common Health Problems in Golden Retrievers

A golden retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. They are loyal, fun-loving, and a perfect family dog. They are a highly intelligent breed and easy to train. The average lifespan of a healthy Golden retriever is about 10 to 13 years.

They are generally a healthy dog breed and require less frequent visits to the vet. They love to eat and have a tendency to get overweight which might cause some common Health problems.

Eye problems

The golden retriever breed usually suffers the most due to eye problems like Cataracts. Cataract disease is an opaque spot that forms within the lens of the eye.

In some cases, this disease can cause partial or total blindness, although in others the dog’s vision is unaffected. Genetic cataract problems can develop in Golden retrievers at a young age. Older dogs are prone to both genetic and non-genetic cataracts.

Some Golden retrievers are also at risk of developing Central Progressive Retinal Atrophy (CPRA). Dogs suffering from CPRA usually end up going blind.

Symptoms:

• Color change to the iris
• Abnormal pupil shape
• Cloudiness of the eye

Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD)

Golden retrievers are one of the larger dog breeds that are prone to hip dysplasia. It is a genetic disorder that affects the hip joints of the dog. This happens when the ball and socket in the hip do not fit together properly.

This health problem occurs usually during a puppy’s rapid growth period, and in Golden retrievers, it can often be detected as early as 4 to 9 months of age.

However, some Golden retrievers will show no symptoms until they are older.  CHD can be degenerative and decrease the energy level of a dog. It can also affect a dog’s ability to walk at its age, especially in cases where arthritis forms in the affected hip joints.

Symptoms:

• Decreased activity
• Difficulty rising
• Reluctance to run, jump, or climb stairs

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow Dysplasia diseases are similar to hip dysplasia. This health problem is a defect of the elbow joints.  It can either be a minor condition or can make be extremely painful for a dog.

However, most of the Golden retrievers that suffer from elbow dysplasia can go through life with slight pain. The disease can be managed if caught early. Some dogs never show any symptoms at all but they might be suffering from Elbow Dysplasia.

A thorough bone and ligament checkup can help identify this disease. As this is a very painful condition, it is recommended to have them started on CBD oils to help with the pain. You can read more about CBD oils’ impact on pain relief for dogs at Weedclub.com.

Symptoms:

• Reluctance to play
• Disinclination to go on walks
• Swelling around the elbow

Heart problem

Heat disease is one of the most common health problems in Golden retrievers. Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis (SAS) is the most common heart problem in Golden retrievers. Dogs suffering from this disease generally develop extra tissue below the aortic valve.

This tissue can block the flow of blood from one vein to another and require the heart to work harder to pump enough blood out to the body. SAS is a genetic health condition that can be fatal for dogs if not caught or treated early.

Symptoms:

• Coughing
• Fainting
• Weakness
• Changes in behavior

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