Golden Retrievers are for the most part healthy, sound, beautiful dogs. Their popularity as family pets, however, has brought about some problems within the Golden Retriever gene pool. Due to indiscriminate breeding by backyard breeders and puppymills, poorly bred Goldens have adversely affected the Golden's quality reputation. As with any dog breed; purchasing a Golden from a reputable breeder, is the safest course to assure yourself of obtaining a quality pup.

Hip Dysplasia
    The hip joint is a ball and socket connection.  If the joint is malformed the head of the femur will not properly align with the cup of the hip socket.  This misalignment can range from mild to severe. In mild cases, with proper diet and exercise the animal can lead a full and active life. In more severe cases surgical correction or euthanasia are the only alternatives.  The most common indications of hip dysplasia, in small dogs, is when the dog older.  Generally with this late-life onset surgical correction is never required. Your veterinarian can X-ray your dog's hips for evaluation.
For further information please see: Medical Index/ Hip Dysplasia.

Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD)
        Osteochondrosis Dissecans is a disorder of bone formation resulting from a defect in the transition of cartilage into bone during the growth process.  This condition appears to be genetic in nature, being far more common in some bloodlines than others.  Similarly to hip dysplasia, environmental factors can be contributory.
For further information please see: (Medical Index/Osteochondrosis Dissecans).

Panosteitis
        Occasionally referred to as "wandering lameness", this disease presents itself as spontaneous lameness, affecting dogs between the ages of 5 to 14 months.
For further information please see: (Medical Index/Panosteitis).

Sub-Aortic Stenosis (SAS)
        This congenital heart condition has been found in Rottweilers, although major efforts are underway to eliminate (severely reduce) this condition.  Ranging from minor heart murmurs to fatal, this condition covers a wide array of symptoms.
For further information please see: (Medical Index/Sub-Aortic Stenosis).
 

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
        Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Central Progressive Retinal Atrophy (CPRA) are among the most common eye problems in Golden Retrievers. These conditions usually begin to display symptoms at about 2 years of age.  They are progressive in their degeneration. Both conditions are hereditary. Both parents should have CERF certification proof, when looking to purchase a pup.
For further information please see: (Medical Index/Progressive Retinal Atrophy).

Ear Care
     Golden Retrievers are field dogs, they  will have a tendancy to pack a variety of dirt and debris into their ears. As a Golden owner you will find it best to frequently check and clean your puppy's ears.
For further information please see : (Care/Ear Care).

Seborrhea
        Golden Retrievers are prone to primary seborrhea (seborrhea oleosa).  Symptoms include: yellow to yellow-brown scales, greasy coat and skin, itchy skin, skin infections and a rancid odor.
For further information please see: (Medical Index/Seborrhea).

Juvenile Cataracts
     Juvenile cataracts appear to be genetic in nature.  A reputable breeder will not use breeding stock that has been treated for this condition.
For further information please see: (Medical Index/Juvenile Cataracts).

Return to Golden Retriever Directory
Return to Bark Bytes Home