One of the best purebred dogs to own is a Golden Retriever. These dogs are amazing pets. It is very important to provide them with proper diet, daily exercise, and routine vet visits. As with any animal, there are some health issues that this breed is prone to. However, preventative medicine will keep major Golden Retriever health problems under control.

Originating from England and Scotland, this breed of dog is very friendly and loving. Most Golden Retriever owners will recommend getting one when it is just a puppy and introducing it to your family. With the right food and exercise, as well as a loving environment to live, the dog has proven to be one breed that will gives years of companionship. It is important to learn about the health risks that come with your Golden Retriever.

Hip dysplasia is a genetic joint disease that is known to be related to different stages of arthritis. Golden Retrievers, especially as they age, are known to inherit this ailment. Arthritis may develop in the joints and the problem will spread to other parts of the dog’s body. Predicting if a Golden Retriever will inherit this disease is practically impossible. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) does have a radiographic procedure that can determine if the dog is beginning to show the sighs of hip dysplasia as opposed to another kind of arthritis.

When purchasing a Golden Retriever as a pet or as a breeding dog, it is important to research a common health problem that they can also inherit called Von Willebrand disease. This is a bleeding disorder that causes blood platelets to not clump together properly. They will not stick to the walls of blood vessels and inhibit the normal blood clotting process.

Another health problem found in Golden Retrievers is congenital eye defects. These are also hereditary. These eye defects can include cataracts and Central Progressive Retinal Atrophy which affects how the eyes receive light. The first sign of this problem is when the dog has trouble with its night vision or is not able to see clearly in low light.

While you are looking for a Golden Retriever, always ask lots of questions regarding these conditions and take the dog you are interested in to be examined by a veterinarian. They will check the dog for signs of abnormal skin discolorations, and problems with the hearts and joints. Breeders should be open to answering any questions that you have and should be willing to give you any information that you need.

Do not let the fact that Golden Retrievers can inherit these types of health problems prevent you from getting one of these dogs. All animals are prone to some type of ailment, just like humans. Getting a healthy animal is not hard to do and keeping it free from serious health conditions is part of the responsibility that comes with being a pet owner.

As a pet owner, there are many things that can be done to ensure your dog’s health lasts for years. Giving it the right kind of food on a daily basis is the most important thing. Many of the low quality foods available contain large amounts of grains, such as wheat, soy, and corn. These are not good for purebred dogs, especially since most of these breeds are allergic to grains. If you own a Golden Retriever it is very important not to feed it any soy-based foods.

Overall, a proper diet consisting of lean meats and vegetables combined with plenty of exercise and love will prevent a lot of Golden Retriever health problems. You will have a faithful, gentle and loving pet that your family will enjoy.

Concerned about your golden retriever? Visit us right now and learn much more about golden retriever health problems today.