Golden Retriever: Everything You Need to Know About 

Golden Retriever are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States of America, and it’s easy to see why. They’re smart, loyal, easy to train, and full of affection. Often called “Goldens,” they make excellent family pets. They get along well with kids and other animals, especially if they’ve been properly socialized from a young age.

Golden Retrievers are medium-sized dogs, generally weighing between 55 and 75 pounds. Females are usually on the lighter end of this range. They typically stand around 21 to 24 inches in height. They have a wide head, short ears, a deep chest, and a strong, muscular build.

What type of care a Golden Retriever Dogs needs?

Golden Retrievers are famous for their thick, shiny coats that are water-resistant. Their fur can come in various shades of gold, from light cream to deep red.

Regardless of their colour, Golden Retrievers have a double coat. This means they have a soft, dense undercoat and a layer of longer, outer hair. Because of this, they shed quite a bit and are prone to matting, especially behind their ears and on their hind legs. To keep their coats in good shape, they need regular grooming, either at home or by a professional.

Goldens have a good amount of energy, even as they get older. They love to run, take long walks, fetch, and swim. They also excel as therapy and guide dogs, helping people with vision impairments and providing support in various ways.

What are the health issues of Golden Retriever dogs?

Golden Retrievers typically live between 10 and 12 years and are generally healthy dogs. However, poor breeding practices can sometimes lead to health problems.

When adopting a Golden Retriever, it’s important to do thorough research to ensure you choose a reputable breeder or adoption source to minimize the risk of these issues.

Hot Spots

Golden Retrievers are prone to hot spots, which are inflamed, infected areas of skin. These often occur due to their thick coats and love of swimming. Hot spots are more common in warm, humid climates and after swimming, where moisture can get trapped near the skin. This can lead to discomfort, which causes the dog to scratch, chew, or lick the area, making the problem worse.

Hot spots develop quickly and can result in hair loss, redness, and moist, oozy skin that may crust over or form thick scabs. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to see a vet, as hot spots usually heal quickly with the right treatment.

Atopic Dermatitis (Atopy)

Atopic dermatitis, or atopy, is a common and very itchy skin condition in Golden Retrievers. It can be triggered by environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, or mould, or by food allergies, often to specific proteins. This condition usually shows up between 2 and 6 years of age.

Dogs with atopy often scratch, chew, or lick themselves excessively, leading to hair loss, thickened skin that may become red or black, and rashes. Regular vet check-ups are important to manage and monitor this condition.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland fails to produce sufficient thyroid hormones. This leads to symptoms like:

• Unexplained weight gain
• Low energy levels
• Frequent skin and ear infections
• Thinning fur
• Dry, scaly skin

Golden Retrievers are prone to hypothyroidism, which usually appears when they are middle-aged. Although it’s a common condition, it can be effectively managed with lifelong medication.

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

Hip Dysplasia is a genetic orthopaedic issue where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly, causing pain and possibly leading to arthritis over time. This can affect one or both hips. Some Golden Retrievers are born with this condition, though it can also develop later in life.

Symptoms of hip dysplasia include:

• Lameness
• Difficulty getting up from a lying position
• A “bunny-hopping” gait when running
• Hesitation to run, jump, or navigate stairs
• Keeping the affected leg extended to the side while sitting

To minimize the risk, it’s important to buy from a breeder who screens for hip dysplasia and has dogs certified through PennHIP evaluations. Treatment may include joint supplements and medication, but severe cases might require surgery.

Elbow Dysplasia involves several inherited conditions that lead to degenerative joint disease in the elbow. Diagnosis is made through X-rays or CT scans, and treatment options include surgery, joint supplements, and anti-inflammatory medications.

Eye Conditions

Golden Retrievers are susceptible to several eye issues:

• Pigmentary Uveitis: This inherited condition causes brown or black cysts on the eye, usually developing after age 5. While generally benign, it can lead to cataracts and glaucoma, which need immediate treatment.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This disease slowly deteriorates the retina, leading to blindness. There’s no cure for PRA, but blind Goldens can live happy lives with proper care.

Cancers

Golden Retrievers can also face a few types of cancer:

• Lymphoma/Lymphosarcoma: This cancer affects the lymph nodes and can spread to other organs. Commonly enlarged lymph nodes are found on the neck, behind the knee, and inside the thigh. It’s quite common in the breed.
• Hemangiosarcoma (HSA): An aggressive cancer that often starts in the spleen, liver, or heart. It forms blood-filled tumours that can rupture and cause internal bleeding. Immediate treatment is critical if a tumour ruptures.

Heart Problems

Subaortic Valvular Stenosis (SAS) is a genetic heart condition seen in Golden Retriever puppies. It develops within the first year and is a result of fibrous tissue obstructing blood flow in the heart.

Dogs with SAS might have a heart murmur detectable during a physical exam. Mild to moderate cases may not show symptoms, but severe cases can lead to lethargy, tiredness after minimal exercise, fainting, or sudden death. Responsible breeding practices are essential to help prevent this condition.

What type of Feeding requirements for Golden Retriever?

Golden Retriever puppies should be fed a high-quality large-breed puppy formula until they are about 1 to 1.5 years old. After they reach maturity, switch them to a high-quality large-breed adult food.

Start with food approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), but it’s also a good idea to consult your veterinarian. They can help you choose the best food for your Golden Retriever’s specific needs.

How to Feed a Golden Retriever Dog?

For adult Golden Retrievers, feeding them twice a day—once in the morning and once in the evening—is usually effective. Golden Retriever puppies, however, need to be fed more frequently. Aim for three to four meals a day on a consistent schedule.

Because Golden Retrievers love their food and may eat quickly, using a slow feeder bowl can help them eat more slowly. This can prevent digestive problems like vomiting and reduce the risk of bloat, a serious condition where the stomach can twist and become an emergency.

How much you can feed to your Golden Retriever Dog?

Golden Retriever puppies grow quickly, so they need a specially formulated puppy food to support their rapid development. Follow the feeding guidelines on the large-breed puppy food package, adjusting portions based on their age and expected weight.

When your Golden Retriever turns 1 year old, switch to a large-breed adult formula with fewer calories to help prevent weight gain. To ensure your dog maintains a healthy weight, consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations.

Nutritional Guidance for Golden Retriever Dog

Starting your Golden Retriever on a joint supplement early can help slow down or possibly prevent arthritis. Before giving your pup any supplements, like Movoflex, Synovi Chews, Dasuquin, Cosequin, or Flexadin, consult your vet.

Another beneficial supplement is omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil). These can reduce joint inflammation, improve coat shine, and protect the skin from environmental allergens. Some recommended fish oil supplements include Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet, Vetoquinol Triglyceride Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and Nutramax Welactin Omega 3.

Behaviour and Training Guide for Golden Retrievers

What is the temperament of a Golden Retriever?

Golden Retrievers are known for their wonderful temperament. They’re typically friendly and get along well with children, other pets, and even strangers. They love being the center of attention and enjoy being petted. In fact, they might nudge you gently to encourage more affection and attention.

What is the Behavior of Golden Retriever ?

Golden Retrievers, especially as puppies, have a tendency to chew on things they shouldn’t, such as socks, shoes, or furniture, and they might even raid the trash. To keep your Golden safe and avoid digestive problems or blockages, supervise them closely while they’re still young.

These energetic dogs need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They’re generally quiet, with minimal barking, and they’re not known for digging up the yard.

How to give Training to Golden Retriever Dog?

Training Golden Retrievers is usually straightforward because of their friendly nature and desire to please. They are highly food-motivated, so using small treats as rewards works well. Early socialization is also crucial for puppies to ensure they grow up well-adjusted and well-behaved.

Grooming Guide for Golden Retriever

Grooming is essential for Golden Retrievers due to their thick coats and sensitive skin. Their eyes and ears also need special care.

Skin Care

Regularly check your Golden Retriever’s skin to spot issues like hot spots or infections. If you notice increased scratching, chewing, or licking, consult your veterinarian.

Coat Care

Golden Retrievers have a dense double coat that sheds quite a bit. Brush your dog at least once or twice a week to prevent matting, especially behind the ears and on the hind limbs. Using a FURminator brush can also help reduce indoor shedding.

Eye Care

It’s normal for Golden Retrievers to have a small amount of clear or brown eye discharge. Clean any discharge using a moistened washcloth or special eye wipes.

Ear Care

Golden Retrievers are prone to ear infections due to their droopy ears, which trap moisture and wax. Their love for water can also contribute to ear issues, especially after swimming or bathing.

To prevent ear infections, clean their ears every two to three weeks with a drying ear cleanser like EPIOTIC® Advanced. Also, clean their ears after swimming or bathing to remove any trapped moisture. If your Golden Retriever has allergies or hypothyroidism, they may be more susceptible to ear infections.

What Type of Consideration Should be kept in Mind for Pet Parents?

Golden Retrievers are wonderful family pets thanks to their cheerful and friendly nature. They are quite energetic, so it’s important to establish a daily exercise routine to keep them happy and healthy. Training them early on about what they can and cannot eat is crucial. This might involve keeping them away from trash cans, laundry, and household supplies to prevent them from eating inappropriate items.

Golden Retrievers are also prone to certain health issues, which means regular vet visits and additional veterinary expenses are likely. To help manage these costs, consider getting pet insurance.

Additionally, their thick, long coat requires regular grooming and brushing to prevent matting and manage shedding. Consistent care is essential to keep their coat in good condition and maintain their overall health.