Useful Information On The Golden Retriever Breed And Their Health

When you choose a family pet, you are choosing it to be part of the family for a long time. You picture your puppy growing into old age with your children and with yourself. The loss of a pet can be traumatic and knowing how to take care of a Golden Retriever breed and his health can potentially increase your pet's life span.

The average life span of a Golden Retriever is ten to thirteen years, but each dog is different. Depending on how long the dog's parents and grandparents lived plays a factor. Some health problems that affect this breed are eye problems, epilepsy, hip dysplasia, and osteosarcoma, which is bone cancer. Although you may not be able to prevent diseases in your pet, there are some things you can help to prolong his life.

Choosing a high quality dog food will give your pet all the vitamins and minerals he needs to keep him healthy, and reduce the risk of an overweight pet. An overweight dog is at a higher risk for certain diseases, such as diabetes. Many commercial pet foods have additives that could be harmful to pets, so paying attention to labels is needed. The best thing to help him stay healthy is organic dog food or making your own healthy dog food.

Because his diet is important to his health, avoid giving table food. Most human food is higher in fat and can cause many problems for a Golden Retriever. That fat can be life threatening, risking pancreatitis in them. Even some fruits can be toxic to your pet, such as grapes. Always consult with your vet before giving him anything other than dog food made especially for his type.

Dogs can be very inquisitive and are naturally curious. They will put anything in their mouth or eat anything they find. To protect your pet from accidentally poisoning himself, there are precautions that need to be taken. Keep all household products, medications, and chemicals out of his reach, in a safe place where he cannot get at them.

Dogs need exercise, just like humans do. It is necessary not only to keep them in shape but also helps to reduce their stress level when it is mentally challenging. Taking them for thirty minute walks twice daily and giving them time to play will keep them healthy and reduce the risk of obesity.

Taking care to visit the vet regularly for checkups is necessary in keeping an eye on his health. Checking for signs of illness will help you catch anything early and start treatment. Some of the signs to watch for are loss of fur, increased panting, excessive thirst, and personality changes. Any unusual change in your dog's daily habits or personality should be brought to the attention of your vet immediately.

You want your family pet around as long as possible and giving them a happy, stress free life plays a big part of that. Paying attention to his health, everything from what he eats, to how much exercise, and doctor visits will play a major role in how long he lives. The Golden Retriever breed may have an average lifespan of ten to thirteen years, but each dog is different, some outlive the average by many years with the proper care.