Golden Retriever is one of the most popular breeds in the world due to the special love shown to people and the high level of intelligence. These important family members are very sociable and have a remarkably balanced character. It is for this reason that they are considered suitable companions both for children and other pets. 

Gifted with high intelligence and an impressive work ethic, these companion animals have a friendly temperament and remarkable loyalty. It is because of these unique characteristics that blind and visually impaired people choose Golden Retrievers as guide dogs.

Along with the need for regular exercise, the fun and energetic nature of these important family members is also reflected in their love of outdoor activities. Swimming, walking, running, and playing with a ball are just a few of the activities that will benefit your companion animal from burning off excess energy.

Dysplasia

A Golden Retriever can be born with a genetic disease known as hip dysplasia. This medical condition involves a misalignment of the hip ball and pelvis joints and manifests itself in symptoms such as lameness and decreased physical activity levels. Unlike hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is caused by improper development of the elbow during infancy. 

If you notice a swollen limb or discomfort related to the movement of your companion animal, visit the veterinarian immediately. The specialist’s knowledge and experience will make the process of treatment much easier.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma causes increased intraocular pressure and damage to the optic nerve. In the initial stages of the disease, the companion animal’s vision slightly deteriorates but over time, it may even lead to incurable blindness.

Although it is difficult to prevent the disease, regular veterinary check-ups and eye health diagnostics can significantly help to detect the disease at an early stage and effectively guide the treatment process. A diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A, C, and E will greatly assist your important family member in maintaining eye health.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Progressive atrophy leads to gradual degeneration of the retina and loss of vision. The mentioned disease is passed on to companion animals by inheritance. Regular eye exams and a diet rich in antioxidants can help maintain retinal health. Before obtaining an important family member, carefully research their genetics and make sure that your future companion does not have a genetic predisposition to vision problems.

Retinal Dystrophy

Dystrophy causes retinal degeneration and vision loss. The cause of the disease may be a hereditary factor, aging, or diabetes. Consultation with a veterinarian is crucial for diagnosing the disease. In case of timely and correct treatment, you will be able to effectively avoid the trouble.

Hereditary Cataract

Cataracts cause a gradual deterioration of the companion animal’s vision. At this time, the crystal, which is transparent in a healthy eye, acquires a grayish or milky color.

Congenital cataracts are usually caused by an infectious disease or birth trauma acquired during the mother’s pregnancy. Although managing congenital diseases is often beyond our control, eating foods rich in vitamins C and E can greatly improve the eye health of your important family member. 

As a competent parent, remember that regular veterinary check-ups and protecting the eyes from the harmful effects of the sun are prerequisites for effective disease management.

Ichthyosis

Ichthyosis is a hereditary disease that causes the skin to be covered with scaly scales and cornified. The cause of the disease is unknown, however, people with appropriate qualifications consider vitamin A deficiency to be a provoking factor for its development. 

Depending on which gene mutation causes the disease, in the medical field, several forms of ichthyosis are distinguished from each other. However, usually, the symptoms of ichthyosis include dry skin, peeling, and infections due to the damaged barrier. 

The disease management strategy involves close cooperation with the veterinarian and the employment of special hygiene products prescribed.

Ideally, a Golden Retriever should be fed high-quality dog food. In the process of selection, make sure that it is completely balanced. This means that the food contains all the nutrients necessary for the health and well-being of companion animals (proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals) in a balanced amount and fully meets its nutritional needs. 

To ensure healthy growth, a Golden Retriever’s diet should contain calories, minerals, and vitamins in appropriate proportions. Eating foods rich in calories can lead to improper development of the musculoskeletal system along with weight gain. An adult Golden Retriever should be fed two or three times a day. 

Sharing leftovers with companion animals is a common practice, however, we need to be especially careful when doing so. For instance, long-term intake of the liver may lead to excessive accumulation of vitamin A in the body and poisoning. Golden Retrievers are also not recommended to offer cooked bones, onions, garlic, avocados, chocolate, and grapes. 

These important family members should also avoid foods containing sugar, fat, and salt. While sweet and fatty foods significantly contribute to weight gain, the excess amount of salt hurts the health of the kidneys and, along with the violation of the water balance, it also provokes skin infections.

Because of their susceptibility to hip dysplasia and arthritis, when choosing a food for your Golden Retriever, make sure the product contains supplements for joint health, such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Considering Golden Retrievers are prone to weight gain, regular monitoring of body condition and control of food portions is essential for their health. Remember, overeating can lead to obesity and joint problems. 

To adapt the feeding schedule to individual needs and take into account the age, weight, activity level, and health status of the companion animal, it is recommended to consult a nutritionist to make optimal decisions regarding feeding.

The Golden Retriever was originally bred to hunt birds, specifically waterfowl, by the Scots who wanted a companion animal that could effectively hunt on both land and water. To create the perfect retriever, Dudley Marjoribanks, the baron of Tweedmouth, mated his yellow retriever, Nous, purchased in Brighton in 1865, with the now-extinct Tweed Water Spaniel. 

However, the selection process didn’t end there and to refine the Golden Retriever’s appearance and skills, the Baron employed Labrador Retrievers, Red Setters, and Irish Bloodhounds at various times. This combination resulted in a hardy, strong companion animal with exceptional hunting skills and physical characteristics suited to the harsh Scottish climate.

Nowadays, the Golden Retriever is one of the most popular breeds around the world. However, it is merely known to society that there are three different varieties of this breed (English, Canadian, and American). Nevertheless, only minor details distinguish them from each other, and that’s exactly why they are all classified as the same variety.