Golden Retriever Health Problems - Facts

1.     Problem Definition:

Golden Retrievers are most prone to ear problems, hot spots and joint problems. Genetic problems like dysplasia and eye defects can be prevented through responsible breeding.

2.     Symptoms:

Dirty or foul smelling ears, head shaking and scratching are sure symptoms of an ear infection. Distorted skin, loss of hair and itching are symptoms of fleas or ticks. Vomiting can be a symptom of worms.

3.     Duration of Problem:

Topical problems, like ear infections and skin allergies do not take much time to heal if caught at an early stage. But dysplasia and eye defects can sometimes result in permanent damage.

4.     Exposure:

Ear infections are caused by moisture and dirt. Joint problems are the result of exercising or jumping before a dog is a year old. Fleas and ticks are the result of coming in contact with other infected animals, or infestations in your yard. Worms are a result of infected food.

Golden Retriever Health Problems - Prevention & Treatment

1.     The Treatment:

Proper veterinary treatment is needed for infections if they increase and apart from topical solutions the dog might need antibiotics as well.

2.     Prevention:

A drop of 2/3 alcohol 1/3 vinegar once a week is said to prevent ear infections. Also trimming the hair below the ears helps. Fleas should be hand picked off the skin. Toe nails should be clipped regularly to prevent hot spots, foot sores and knots. Regular de-worming should be done. Joint problems can be prevented by not letting your puppy jump or jog before it is 1 year old.

3.     Precautions:

OFA certified stock makes sure that the genetic problems like dysplasia do not bother your dog. Also pick up your puppy from its body to prevent straining the joints. Furthermore regular grooming and trimming of hair prevents skin allergies and infections.

4.     Helpful Supplies:

Always use a dog shampoo as human shampoo is too strong for Golden Retrievers. Regular brushing with specific brushes helps too. Vitamin C supplements and oil in food especially during the winter months helps the coat of Golden Retrievers greatly.

Golden Retriever Health Problems - Concerns

1.     Level of Seriousness:

If caught in the initial stage most health problems can be easily curtailed, elongated problems can though have permanent effects too.

2.     Lasting Consequences:

Most joints problems like dysplasia or eye defects have lasting consequences and your dog might stand to loose its limbs or eyesight.

3.     Genetics:

Responsible breeding greatly diminishes the fear of genetic problems like dysplasia and eye defects.

4.     Lifestyle Accommodations:

Regular grooming and checking of your dog vastly decreases the chances of skin infections. Clean environment and regular checkups also reduce problems like worms.

5.     Expense:

Apart from the regular veterinary expenses of vaccinations most health problems if caught early on would not pose much on your pocket and finances.