Golden Retriever Tips and Care – Health Issues
The health of the Golden Retriever is a top priority when those little bundles of fluff come home at 10 weeks. They are nothing more than beautiful puppies, all furry and if you have small children the joy in their faces is priceless. Now there is a new member in the family and this puppy is going to want a lot of attention and a lot of love from his new family.
Watch out for the pup’s back.
When a puppy is only 10 weeks old, and in fact for quite a few months, it should be handled with the utmost care. A puppy should always be picked up by placing one hand under his chest and supporting his back. If a puppy is picked up by its front legs, for example, the legs could slip out of place and become dislocated. His muscles have not developed at this stage and may not be able to support the puppy’s weight if he is picked up with his front or back legs. The same, of course, happens if the pup is picked up by the head.
These points have been mentioned because if there is a small child in the house, parents often tend to think more about the small child being bitten than the harm it could cause the dog. Young children may need some training on how to handle a very young puppy.
Common health problems.
There are a number of basic issues involved in caring for a golden retriever, so it will be easier if I list them:
a good healthy diet
a lot of exercise
Much love and care from the family and in their company as much as possible.
Brush at least once a week or more during shedding season
regular bathroom
possible castration
Vaccinations – visit your vet and get any required vaccinations
Parasite control: fleas, ticks, mange, internal parasites, giardia, hookworm, ringworm, roundworm, tapeworm and whipworm
eye problems
General health problems such as cancer, which is common in dogs.
heart disease
An annual health check by a veterinarian.
allergies
I know this list seems long and I agree it is, but unfortunately everything has to be taken into account, but many of the problems can be avoided or controlled relatively easily.
Owning a pet requires a certain amount of parental care, but more often than not it means setting a schedule and being observant. The most important daily activities that must be carried out for the health of the golden retriever are a well-balanced diet, exercise every day, and a thorough weekly brushing with other grooming details attended to when necessary.