Common Health Problems Of Golden Retrievers

A lot of people love golden retrievers and get them home sometimes without checking the credentials of the breeder. This is a really bad idea, as you may then get a golden retriever puppy that is not 100% pure bred and it can have some health problems, which are inherited from its parents or may develop some later on as they grow up.

Purebred dogs too have their share of health problems, which are inherited genetically. Generally golden retrievers tend to suffer from minor health problems which are quite common in nature, and can be easily cured if looked after carefully. For example, luxating patella is one of the common health problems of Golden retrievers when the kneecap gets dislocated out of its normal position. Your vet can help you with this problem.

Similarly, distemper virus is a common health problem of Golden retrievers and is an airborne disease. It is a high-risk disease, and can be easily prevented by getting three vaccinations done for a golden retriever, starting at the age of 6 weeks and ending at the age of 16 weeks. This can be given along with the regular annual booster shot. Symptoms include cough, fever, vomiting and diarrhea. You should take a golden retriever to the vet immediately if it manifests any of these symptoms.

Heart worms are among the most common health problems of Golden retrievers, and can grow up to 12 inches in the heart or lung arteries in all dog breeds. As a result, they may cause heart failure or a decrease in the circulation of blood. So, in this case, prevention is better than cure, and you're better off giving your golden retriever the correct heart worm medicines from before.

It may sound tough to believe, but another common health problems of Golden retrievers is heat stroke. Be sure to keep your dog indoors during the hot months and make it drink lots of water. Don't leave him in bright sunlight for a very long period of time. If you think he's been out for too long, let him rest awhile. Classic symptoms of heat stroke include drooling, panting, dark gums, and even vomiting. Once again you should take it to the vet immediately, if you think he's suffering from heatstroke.

One of the most serious health problems Golden retrievers face is rabies. It has a very serious affect on your dog's nervous system. Generally, dogs are liable to get rabies, only through the bite of another infected animal. To prevent this, you should make sure you get your dog rabies shots periodically as per the vet's instructions. Common symptoms of rabies include foaming at the mouth, seizures and aggression. If you even suspect that your pet may have rabies, you should take it to the vet immediately as only he could tell you what to do. Never allow your dog near others when he is exhibiting these symptoms.

Lastly, let me tell you about tapeworms and hookworms. Tapeworms are spread by fleas and can cause a loss of weight, diarrhoea, and irritation in the rectal area. It is better to make sure that your dog does not have fleas by checking regularly. Hookworms on the other hand generally enter your dog's digestive system if they come into contact with feces. For both these problems, you should consult your vet.

Common health problems of golden retrievers can be solved simply by taking it to the vet for regular check ups and of course, your love and care.