Because they have been so popular over the last 50 years or so, Golden Retrievers have been over-bred, resulting in a genetic predisposition to experience specific health problems. Unfortunately, as greedy breeders often fail to screen their breeding animals, additional hereditary health problems are introduced to the breed. If you have a Golden, or plan to bring one into your home, you should know about the more common hereditary problems that may reduce the quality or length of your Golden Retriever’s life.

Health Problems Known to Be Inherited by Golden Retrievers

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: When growing hip joints don’t form properly, juvenile and adult Retrievers may have an uneven gait or even severe lameness. This inherited disorder is common to many large dogs, and while is not usually noticeable in puppies, hip dysplasia will begin to show when your Golden is between four and nine months old. The severity of the condition varies greatly from dog to dog, but most Goldens with hip dysplasia will develop arthritis as they age. Moderate exercise, weight control, and inflammatory medications will help with the discomfort of this problem. Not all Golden Retrievers will show, or even know about, their hip dysplasia if it’s a mild form. Golden’s with hip dysplasia can live long, happy lives, but they should not be bred.

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Training is very important for your golden retriever. Golden retrievers are smart dogs, and they learn quickly. With a little bit of patience and time, your golden retriever can be the most adorable pet around.

Enlisted here are the most popular methods that would provide training for your golden retriever.

Behavior Training

Behavior training helps your dog behave in an appropriate and desirable manner. You have to decide on general behavioral patterns that you would like your dog to follow, and help him develop the same.

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Golden Retrievers are the second most commonly registered breed with the American Kennel Club. The only other breed that outranks the Golden Retriever in popularity is the Labrador Retriever. They are dually coated. The outer coat is silky and soft. The undercoat provides the necessary extra layer to maintain proper body temperature throughout the year and repel water when hunting or participating in water activities. The Golden Retriever was originally bred to be a hunting dog because they are instinctive retrievers. This makes them ideal as a hunting companion, particularly for bird hunters that typically are hunting in rough terrain and/or areas with water. They are not pointers or well suited for flushing out game like other breeds such as cocker spaniels or Blue Tick, but they will swim in rough, cold water to retrieve game or charge through thick bramble and brush to locate and return with the prize. Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular family pets. One reason for being a great family dog is because of their calm and easy going temperament. Golden Retrievers are good around children because of their tolerant disposition. Golden Retriever will generally be far more patient of the clumsiness and irregularity of a toddler or young child than other breeds. Golden Retrievers are excellent service dogs. (more…)