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Although generally healthy and active dogs, there are some golden retriever health problems which can seriously affect their quality of life. The more common golden retriever health problems include hip or elbow dysplasia, arthritis, heart disease, von Willebrand’s disease (haemophilia), cancer, eye diseases (particularly cataracts) and hypothyroidism.
Hip Or Elbow Dysplasia
Dysplasia is a health problem very common in golden retrievers. This is an abnormal development of the hip or elbow joint which can begin to shows signs during a puppy’s growth phase. Dysplasia may not show up until later in the dog’s life, but it can eventually develop painful arthritis in the joints, creating a crippling condition.
Arthritis
Arthritis is another golden retriever health problem and it affects dogs in similar ways to humans. Not necessarily as a result of dysplasia, arthritis can also develop in the back and makes movement very difficult at best.
Cancer
Cancer is the number one cause of death in golden retrievers, reportedly in excess of 70% of American golden retrievers. Hemangiosarcoma (blood cancer) or lymphsarcoma (cancer of the lymphatic system) are the most common cancers which were rarely found in the breed until 20 years ago.
Von Willebrand’s Disease
Von Willebrand’s disease (vWD) is one of the rarer golden retriever health problems. However the golden retriever breed is among the top six dogs to be affected by vWD which is similar to human haemophilia. Most cases are mild but it can in some instances be deadly.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism, or under active thyroid, is a common health problem in golden retrievers and is often marked by acute and recurring skin disorders. It is however straightforward to diagnose by blood tests and easily treatable with hormone replacement therapy.
Maintaining your golden retriever’s health
Buying from a reputable breeder can minimize the likelihood of your golden retriever developing a lot of these health problems. In any case you should, where possible, investigate the history of the parent dogs. Also ensure you have your golden retriever’s health screened regularly by your veterinarian.
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