14 Common Golden Retriever Health Issues to Look Out For

Need a ray of sunshine in your life? Then the Golden Retriever is likely to be your furry best friend. Known for their loyalty and bubbly personality, this breed is a favourite among pet owners everywhere!

But even the brightest of breeds aren’t immune to pesky health issues, and some are more common than others. That’s why we’re covering some of the prevalent Golden Retriever health problems to look out for – whether you currently own a Golden or are a soon-to-be pet parent. 

From hereditary conditions to allergies, understanding these potential health concerns can help you provide proactive care and ensure the well-being of your Golden.

Do Golden Retrievers Have a Lot of Health Issues?

Photo by Taylor Sondgeroth on Unsplash

In general, Golden Retrievers are typically considered a healthy breed. However, like all breeds, Goldens can experience health problems and might be prone to certain conditions based on their breed. 

For instance, conditions like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and allergies are commonly reported in Golden Retrievers and are often among the top health concerns for this breed. But with proper care, attention to breeding practices, and regular veterinary check-ups, many of these health concerns can be managed or even prevented.

Most Common Health Problems in Golden Retrievers

Whether you’re acquiring a new Golden Retriever dog or puppy, or already own a Golden, it’s important to know the common health problems that can affect this breed. That way, you’ll be better prepared to prevent or treat these health issues in the future. 

Please note that the prevalence of these health issues can vary depending on many factors, such as genetics, geographical location, and individual care. The following list is not necessarily ordered based on the number of occurrences nor in order of most common to least. 

Joint issues

Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition in which the hip joint doesn't fully develop properly. Basically, both the ball (the head of the femur or thighbone) and the socket in the pelvis don’t grow at equal rates, so there is a misalignment. This can lead to discomfort, arthritis, and/or lameness.

Since hip dysplasia is genetic, it can’t be entirely prevented, but there are steps you can take to reduce its likelihood or severity. Choosing a puppy from a reliable breeder that screens their breeding dogs for hip dysplasia is one option. Also, maintaining a healthy weight and exercise regimen can help support proper joint development. Some supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, may promote joint health as well.

Elbow dysplasia 

Similar to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is a developmental abnormality affecting the elbow joint. There are a few abnormalities that can lead to elbow dysplasia, such as the Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP), Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD), and Ununited Anconeal Process (UAP).

Common signs of elbow dysplasia in Golden Retrievers may include lameness, reluctance to bear weight on the affected limb, stiffness, and decreased range of motion in the elbow joint. These symptoms can vary in severity depending on the specific abnormalities present and the degree of joint degeneration.

Ear infections

Due to their floppy ears, Golden Retrievers can be more prone to ear infections than other dog breeds. This is especially true if their ears aren't kept clean, dry, and groomed. 

Signs of ear infection can include (but aren’t limited to): ear odour, discharge, head shaking, scratching or rubbing, redness, swelling, ear pain, ear sensitivity, behavioural changes, or balance and coordination issues. Most ear infections are highly treatable. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the infection from worsening.

Obesity

Golden Retrievers love to eat — and they can easily become overweight. Obesity in Golden Retrievers can exacerbate other health issues, like joint problems, diabetes, respiratory problems, heart disease, and some cancers.

To prevent your Golden Retriever from becoming obese, prioritize a balanced diet that’s appropriate for their age, weight, and activity level. Provide regular exercise and opportunities for mental stimulation and monitor their weight and body condition regularly.

If your Golden Retriever is already overweight or obese, your veterinarian can help you develop a weight management plan tailored to your dog's specific needs. 

Skin issues

Allergies

Golden Retrievers are reportedly more likely than other breeds to suffer from allergies. Some signs of allergies include skin irritation, sneezing, watery eyes, itching, and/or ear infections.

The most common allergens include pollen, mould, dust mites, and certain foods, such as beef, chicken, wheat, soy, or dairy. Food allergies can cause gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea, as well as skin problems like itching and rashes.

Identifying the specific allergens triggering your dog's symptoms can help guide treatment and management strategies. Speak to a trusted veterinarian about diagnosis and treatment options.

Photo by Richard Burlton on Unsplash

Hot spots

Hot spots (also known as acute moist dermatitis) are areas of irritated and infected skin that can cause a lot of itching and discomfort. Hot spots most often develop due to allergies, flea infestations, and extreme skin irritants.

If you suspect that your Golden Retriever has hot spots, schedule a visit to your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will likely recommend cleaning the hot spot with a mild antiseptic solution or cleansing solution. You might also trim the hair around the hot spot to prevent further irritation and promote air circulation. Your vet may also provide a topical treatment to help soothe the skin and promote healing.

Photo by Helena Lopes on Unsplash

Ichthyosis

Ichthyosis is a genetic skin disorder that affects the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, in dogs. It is characterized by the presence of thick, dry, scaly skin that resembles fish scales — hence the name "ichthyosis," which means "fish disease" in Greek.

Treatment of ichthyosis focuses on managing the symptoms and supporting the skin's barrier function and hydration. This may include:

• Regular bathing with moisturizing shampoos and emollients to soften and hydrate the skin
• Use of topical treatments such as creams or ointments containing urea, lactic acid, or other moisturizing agents
• Avoidance of harsh or drying grooming products
• Management of secondary skin infections with antibiotics or antifungal medications as needed

Eye conditions

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye condition that affects dogs, including Golden Retrievers. It occurs when there is increased pressure within the eye, leading to damage to the optic nerve and potential vision loss. 

Glaucoma in Golden Retrievers can be acute (sudden onset) or chronic (developing gradually over time). Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination by a veterinarian or veterinary ophthalmologist. Based on the severity, treatment may include topical or oral medications or surgery (such as laser therapy or drainage implantation). 

Cataracts

Cataracts are another common eye condition affecting Golden Retrievers and other animal breeds. Cataracts occur when there is a clouding of the lens of the eye, which interferes with the animal’s vision. This can lead to blindness if left untreated.

Cataracts can develop for various reasons, including genetics, aging, trauma or injury to the eye, inflammation within the eye, nutritional deficiencies, and certain medications or toxins. In general, early detection and treatment can help preserve your dog’s vision without resorting to surgical intervention. 

Progressive retinal atrophy 

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is an inherited condition that leads to gradual blindness. PRA is not a painful condition, so your dog may not display obvious signs of the condition early on. Typically, the first sign is night blindness. If your dog bumps into things in low lighting or appears to be nervous entering dark rooms, it may be worth asking your vet about PRA.

Your veterinarian may also suspect PRA if your dog has largely dilated pupils and/or appears to have vision loss overall. Proper testing is required to diagnose PRA. At the time of writing this article, there is no known effective treatment available for PRA.

Retinal dysplasia

Retinal dysplasia is an abnormality affecting the retina (the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye), and is present at birth. Dogs with mild retinal dysplasia may have normal vision or only minor visual deficits, while those with more severe forms may experience vision impairment or blindness.

Diagnosis of retinal dysplasia typically involves a comprehensive eye examination by a veterinarian. Additional diagnostic tests, such as ocular ultrasound or genetic testing, may be recommended in some cases. There is no specific treatment for retinal dysplasia, as the condition is typically congenital and irreversible.

 Photo by David Moynihan on Unsplash

Subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS)

Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis (SAS) is a heart condition characterized by a narrowing of the aortic valve, which can lead to heart murmurs and, in severe cases, heart failure. It is one of the most common congenital heart defects in dogs, and it can occur in all types of breeds, including Golden Retrievers.

The clinical signs of SAS can vary depending on the severity of the narrowing of the valve and the degree of obstruction to blood flow. Mild cases may not cause noticeable symptoms, while more severe cases can display symptoms such as exercise intolerance, lethargy, fainting, difficulty breathing, coughing, and in some cases, heart failure or death.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder that occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. The thyroid plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and various functions in the body, so Hypothyroidism can lead to a range of metabolic issues.

A dog who has hypothyroidism may experience:

• Weight gain or obesity
• Lethargy
• Exercise intolerance
• Hair loss or thinning coat
• Dry, flaky skin or poor coat quality
• Cold intolerance
• Slow heart rate
• Infertility or reproductive abnormalities
• Behavioural changes, such as depression or aggression

Diagnosis of hypothyroidism typically involves a combination of clinical signs, physical examination findings, and laboratory tests. Treatment usually requires ongoing thyroid hormone replacement therapy, which increases thyroid hormone levels and helps restore normal metabolic function in the body.

Cancer

There is no single cause of cancer in dogs, and Golden Retrievers can develop cancer much like other dog breeds. The best way to determine whether your dog has cancer is to seek a diagnosis from a certified veterinarian.

That said, some common signs of cancer in Golden Retrievers include (but are not limited to):

• Lumps or bumps
• Abnormal swelling
• Unexplained weight loss
• Decreased appetite
• Difficulty eating
• Lethargy or weakness
• Persistent lameness or difficulty walking
• Changes in bathroom habits
• Coughing or difficulty breathing
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Changes in behaviour or mood

When it comes to cancer in any breed, early detection and prompt veterinary care can help improve the outcome. 

What Cancers are Common in Golden Retrievers?

Golden Retrievers are unfortunately predisposed to various types of cancer, including lymphoma, hemangiosarcoma, and mast cell tumours. 

Lymphoma is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in Golden Retrievers. Lymphoma affects the lymphatic system and can occur in various organs and tissues, including lymph nodes, spleen, liver, and bone marrow. Lymphoma can present with symptoms such as enlarged lymph nodes, lethargy, decreased appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and increased thirst and urination.

Hemangiosarcoma is a cancer that arises from the cells lining blood vessels. It often affects the spleen, liver, or heart, and can be difficult to detect until it reaches an advanced stage. Symptoms may include weakness, lethargy, collapse, abdominal distension (due to bleeding into the abdomen), pale gums, and difficulty breathing.

Mast cell tumours are a type of skin cancer that arises from mast cells, which are immune cells involved in allergic reactions and inflammation. Symptoms may include skin lumps or bumps that may be itchy, red, ulcerated, or rapidly growing. Mast cell tumours can also cause systemic symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy if they spread to other organs.

In addition to these, Golden Retrievers may also be at increased risk for other types of cancer, including osteosarcoma (bone cancer), melanoma (skin cancer), and various types of sarcomas and carcinomas.

Take Steps to Prevent Golden Retriever Health Issues

It's important to note that not every Golden Retriever will experience health problems, and individual dogs may have varying degrees of susceptibility to certain conditions. Responsible breeding practices and proactive health management can contribute to the overall well-being of the breed.

Despite their potential health issues, Golden Retrievers are loved for their friendly temperament, intelligence, and loyalty, making them popular family pets! If you are a lover of Golden Retrievers – and might own one yourself – it’s important to know the signs of common health issues and how to treat them.

Want to keep your Golden happy and healthy? Enrolling in a comprehensive pet insurance plan is one way to keep your pet’s best interests in mind. At Furkin, we support pet parents by covering up to 80% of eligible vet expenses so you can choose (and afford) the best care for your pet. Get a free quote for pet insurance today.