Know the Breed You’re Buying

Why so many people love the Golden Retriever

1. They’re simply beautiful
2. They love us no matter what
3. They give us comfort
4. They are easy to train
5. They make us laugh
6. They help us get exercise
7. They’re brave
8. They increase our lifespan
9. They are the most enthusiastic people we know
10. They exude confidence
11. They’re always in the action
12. They’re extremely gentle
13. They love to please
14. They define loyalty
15. They will be your best friend
16. They fit well into Multi pet households

Predispositions to be aware of in this breed

Eye Problems – some of the genetic eye concerns include increased susceptibility to cataracts, entropion, which is when the eyelid turns inward causing the lashes to rub against the eye; trachealis and distichiasis, tow conditions involving abnormal eye lash growth; central progressive retinal atrophy, or CPRA for short, which causes the retina to deteriorate, impairing vision and sometimes leading to blindness.

Joint problems – Dogs like the Golden Retriever, like a good number of other large dogs, are genetically predisposed to certain joint problems.  Hip Dysplasia is a main concern.  This is joint deformity in which the top of the thigh bone doesn’t sit right in the hip socket.  Golden Retrievers are also prone to the similar condition, elbow dysplasia, which as you might equate to, is when the elbow joint doesn’t fit together properly.  Both conditions also raise the risk of developing arthritis.

Cancers – Their genes leave them at increased risk of developing mast cell tumors, bone tumors called “Osteosarcoma”, aggressive blood vessel tumors called “Hemangiosarcoma”  and cancer of the lymphocyte cells called “Lymphosarcoma.’  It’s not known for sure how big a role genes play in these cancers, but a hereditary factor is obvious from their disproportionately high rates in Golden Retrievers.

Other Conditions – Ear infections, allergies, and allergic skin conditions; hot spots, more formally known as “Pyotraumatic dermatitis;” obsessive-compulsive disorder; the seizure disorder “Epilepsy”; hypothyroidism; gastric torsion, or “twisted gut,” and heart disease in the form of a condition called “Sub aortic Stenosis.”

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have been given a list of verbally and written, on predispositions related to my breed of choice, the Golden Retriever. My breeder has educated me on congenital and or hereditary/genetic conditions associated with Golden Retrievers. I understand the risk and financial responsibility related to pet ownership