Health Issues in Golden Retrievers and How to Prevent Them

Golden Retrievers are a super popular dog breed in the United States, and it's not hard to see why, they are friendly, and their easy-going demeanor makes them popular. However, like any breed, Golden Retrievers have some health issues you should know about. Here are some of their common health problems and how to prevent them:

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

Hip and elbow dysplasia is one of the most common health problems in Golden Retrievers. It’s a joint issue that can cause discomfort and pain and eventually lead to arthritis.

Prevention and Treatment

• Keep your dog at a healthy weight: Overweight dogs are more likely to develop joint problems.
• Give your dog regular exercise, like walks and free play, to keep their muscles healthy. 
• Keep your puppy from doing too much high-impact activity. It can hurt growing bones.
• Consider giving your dog joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin.

Genetic Eye Disorders

Golden Retrievers are prone to various hereditary eye disorders. Two of the most common are Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and cataracts.

Prevention and Treatment

Though some of these disorders are genetic, at times, it's possible to incorporate preventive and treatment measures:

• Regular check-ups: Have your vet inspect your dog's eyes during routine visits.
• Treatments: Depending on the disorder, your vet may suggest medication, surgery, or visual aids.
• Remove hazards: If your Golden Retriever suffers from diminished vision, remove any dangers or block them off potential hazards.

Heart Diseases

Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis (SAS), a condition that restricts the blood flow from the heart to the body, is particularly prevalent in Golden Retrievers.

Prevention and Treatment

Preventing heart disease is not always possible, but understanding and managing it can improve quality and length of life:

• Regular vet visits: SAS can be detected early through regular check-ups.
• Medications: Depending upon the severity, medications can help to manage the condition.
• Diet: A diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and low in sodium can help keep their heart healthy.