Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are generally healthy dogs, and responsible breeders will screen their breeding stock for inheritable health conditions. However, the following conditions can occur in the breed:

• Cancer. A 1998 study by the Golden Retriever Club of America found that various cancers (namely hemangiosarcoma, lymphosarcoma, mast cell tumour and osteosarcoma) were responsible for the deaths of 61.4% of Golden Retrievers in America, while a UK study from 2004 places this number at 38.8%.
• Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition in which the thighbone and hip socket do not fit together properly, causing pain and lameness in one or both hip joints. The condition should be assessed and managed by a vet from as early as possible because it can lead to painful arthritis later in the dog’s life.
• Elbow dysplasia, common among large dog breeds, is a heritable condition in which different growth rates of the bones in the elbow can cause joint laxity, leading to pain and lameness. Surgery may be required to fix the issue or medication may be given to control the pain.
• Subvalvular aortic stenosis is a heart problem resulting from a narrow connection between the aorta and the left ventricle, which can cause fainting and even death. This condition is detectable and treatable.
• Cataracts in canines, like those in humans, are characterised by cloudy spots on the eye which grow over time and can develop at any age. Often they do not severely impact the dog’s vision, but in some cases have been known to cause blindness. Another eye condition called Progressive retinal atrophy can also cause vision loss in Golden Retrievers.
• Osteochondrosis dissecans is an orthopaedic condition resulting from improper cartilage growth in the joints, usually in the elbows, which causes severe pain. Too much protein fed to the dog when it is a puppy can lead to the condition.
• Allergies can be an issue with Golden Retrievers, especially allergies to fleas and occasionally food. Symptoms include the dog licking its paws or rubbing its face very often.
• Gastric dilation-volvulus (bloat) is a life-threatening condition affecting larger dogs. It is caused by feeding the dog one large meal a day, eating too quickly, or drinking lots of water or doing physical activity after eating. Unless treated immediately, the dog may die. Signs include a distended abdomen, excessive drooling and retching.
• Other Issues, including Von Willebrand’s disease (a blood disease), epilepsy and hypothyroidism are also conditions which may affect Golden Retrievers.

Not all conditions are covered by Pet Insurance. For details of Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance cover, refer to the Product Disclosure Statement.