Tragically, one of the more common afflictions that a Golden Retriever may suffer from is hip or elbow dysplasia. A University of Columbia study found that as many as 30% had the condition. Dogs examined by the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, which has a screening service to certify the presence or absence of the condition, found hip dysplasia in 21% of adult dogs.

Even at the lower figure, the odds are high. Professional Golden Retriever organizations and breeders are taking steps to try to breed out the weakness, but that effort is a long-term solution. The average lifespan for a Golden Retriever is between 10-13 years, so changing inherited characteristics will take a long time.

Hip dysplasia is a genetically influenced condition in which the bone socket isn't well formed and the head of the femur bone not properly rounded. A similar condition called elbow dysplasia affects elbows rather than hips, but is essentially the same problem.

The result is friction when the ball of the bone moves inside the socket, with subsequent unhealthy wear on the joint. The condition is debilitating and painful. Over time, the dog has weakness in the hindquarters and eventually extreme difficulty or an inability to walk.

The diagnosis is fairly straightforward. Your vet can take a simple x-ray and a radiologist will analyze the result and provide a report detailing the presence and degree of the problem, if any. Diagnosis is only worthwhile after about six months, but most are done at around two years of age.

There's no cure, short of experimental and expensive joint replacement, which may or not be a long-term solution. But there are several things a Golden Retriever owner can do to mitigate the problem.

Step number one is to make efforts to adopt a pet that doesn't have a propensity for the condition in the first place. The AKC (American Kennel Club, http://www.akc.com) and the OFA provide a means of certifying that the parents of pups offered do not suffer from the condition. Since it's genetically dependent, the absence of the condition in the bitch and sire is a good indication the pups will be free of it.

When adopting a privately bred dog or a rescued dog from a shelter, those options may not be available. But there are still actions the owner can take to minimize the problem.

First is to discover if it exists. At two years (older, if the dog was adopted at later age), have the dog examined. If the condition is found, keeping the dog's weight as low as possible is the first line of defense.

Though underfeeding a dog is unhealthy for the dog and cruel, many dogs are overfed. They are given far more calories than they need, especially if their activity level is low. Reducing the amount of, say, dry food given by 10-20% will not endanger the dog's overall health but will help keep their weight lower.

Some activity is good, in order to keep joints in condition and muscles toned. Healthy muscles help keep bones firmly in the proper alignment, and movement causes the flow of fluids that keep the joint well-lubricated. But for a Golden Retriever with hip or elbow dysplasia, a reduced level of activity is a must.

There's no cure, but a Golden Retriever that is well cared for can still enjoy a long and happy life.

Any dog owner will want to take the best possible care of his or her companion. For Golden Retrievers, that can be a challenge. Because of their popularity they've had a long history that has involved a fair amount of inbreeding.

Mating a bitch with a stud that is too closely related increases the odds of emphasizing certain genes. The chances of those genes combining is increased the more the pair share similar ones. That enhances the odds for both desirable and bad characteristics.

For example, mating a male and female who both have dominant genes for a certain color or type of coat will substantially increase the odds of the pups sharing that.

But the odds are increased for both good and bad, unfortunately. A pair who are both prone to hip dysplasia, for example, a common problem with Goldens, are much more likely to produce one or more pups with that condition.

The result over the past 120 years that Golden Retrievers have been a distinct breed is a large number with various weaknesses. Hip dysplasia and certain kinds of cancers are among the two most common. But each breed will have its weak and strong points. Golden Retrievers are no more prone in general to health problems than any other breed.

To keep them in tip-top shape is actually pretty easy, provided a few simple guidelines are followed.

From the earliest age possible they should have the best diet you can afford. There are different views about what that is, with many citing the benefits of a fresh meat diet. All dogs are meat eaters. But the right meat protein is more important according to most studies than that the meat be fresh. Fresh meat comes with its own risks, for example, such as contamination and spoilage.

Golden Retrievers in particular have a somewhat higher tendency to sensitivity to the grain products that are found in many commercial dog foods. Wheat and, to a lesser extent, corn can cause itching and some nasal or stomach sensitivity. Signs of skin problems are excessive paw licking and scratching of the face on the carpet or grass. For those with digestive sensitivity, the problem is even easier to spot: feces will be runny. In either case, that's the time to consult your vet about switching food.

A good diet will help them develop bones and joints that are resistant to hip dysplasia, minimize skin problems and produce a healthy looking coat. And, since they're such an active breed, it gives them all the nutrition and calories they need to run and play, which also keeps them mentally active and physically fit. Goldens are very active and a high meat protein, moderate fat diet is essential for energy and building strong muscles.

Regular vet visits for the appropriate shots are also a matter of some controversy, with some arguing that vets tend to over-medicate. Weighing the pros and cons, take into account how much contact your Golden Retriever has with other dogs, since most of the diseases that vaccinations guard against are spread by contact.

Parvo, lepto, distemper and others are the most common for Golden Retrievers to be vaccinated against. Shots should start young and be carried out according to your vet's proposed schedule, usually every six months to a year past the initial shots they receive at 6-8 weeks.

Rabies in Golden Retrievers is a little harder to advise about. It's rare, but the consequences are so severe that most will want to get the shots, provided their pet isn't unusually sensitive and the right vaccine is used. In any case, most states require the shots be given at least every other year for the first few years.

Apart from diet and vaccinations, the best thing you can do for your Golden Retriever is give it a healthy lifestyle. Lots of outdoor activity in a low-risk environment keeps both you and your dog happy and in great shape.

Pets should wear seatbelts in the car to avoid causing serious injury to themselves and their owners in a crash, a leading veterinary charity has warned.

If a vehicle involved in a crash at 30mph, an unrestrained 50lb (22.5kg) border collie would be thrown forward with a force equivalent to a polar bear.

Vet  Steven Leonard said: "Cars are an alien environment to pets, but by being patient and taking a few simple precautions, you can ensure that a car journey with your pet is safe and enjoyable for all."

Some dog owners don't have to worry too much about grooming. Short haired breeds can use the occasional bath and toe nail trim, but the effort required to care for them is much less. Golden Retrievers, on the other hand, require a bit more care to keep them healthy and looking good.

Proper coat care takes at least three steps: bathing, brushing and combing.

A Golden needs to be bathed at least every two months, approximately. Some live in cleaner environments and may get away with slightly less often. Some are outside rolling in the dirt at every chance and will need it as often as once per week. If that's the case, however, a better solution would be to keep them out of the dirt!

Always use a dog shampoo, not baby shampoo or dish detergent. Commercial dog shampoos are designed with the Golden's coat and skin in mind. They're manufactured with the proper pH and contain mild ingredients to keep them odor free. Baby shampoo has not the proper pH and dish detergent is far too rough, disturbing the skin's oil balance.

Golden Retrievers have two layers of coat, the top coat and the undercoat. Both need to be brushed correctly.

Grooming that long, thick, beautiful Golden coat is a continuing chore. It should be done at least once per week, more often if your pet tends to get collect debris from bushes and grass. Three instruments will help do the job with minimal fuss: a slicker, a Greyhound comb and an undercoat rake.

The slicker is used to brush the top coat, removing hair that has made its way to the surface. Goldens shed mostly from the undercoat, but much of that hair eventually travels outward. Firm, smooth strokes are good but take care not to get too vigorous. Avoid brush burn from forcible use of a slicker.

A Greyhound comb helps remove excess hair, both from shedding and that loosened by brushing. It's also a great tool to use to check that your brushing has been successful. If you can comb the hair on the back, sides and chest without getting snagged then you've done a thorough brush. 'No matting is good'.

The undercoat rake gets down to the lower layer, close to the skin. This undercoat helps keep the dog warm in winter and cool in summer, while the top coat helps protect from sun and friction from bushes. Goldens were bred to be game fetching dogs, much of which takes place in heavy forest and brush.

The rake is used to remove loose hair from shedding. Start at the rear leg and proceed gently forward. Lift and pull away from your body as you stroke the rake through the coat.

Nails should be trimmed as needed, generally about once per month at least. Tastes differ between the guillotine clippers and the scissor style. Use whichever suits you best, but be careful in either case not to snip the quick. That's the tender, round vessel that delivers blood to the area. Cutting it causes pain and profuse bleeding. Wetting the toenails near the foot will make it more visible.

If you have an accident, don't panic. Just have some styptic powder handy and daub some on the wound. Avoid allowing the dog run or jump for at least an hour. The wounds heal quickly, but can be re-opened.

Keep up with regular 'maintenance' and your Golden will be healthy, look good and feel great to the touch.

Golden Retrievers gradually became among the most popular dog breeds around. The reasons are not far to seek: they're intelligent, friendly, eager to please and beautiful to look at.

But Goldens do require a bit more care and attention than some other breeds. Anyone considering one of these magnificent animals should think carefully.

Though it's sometimes overstated, Goldens are more prone to hip dysplasia than many other breeds, particularly smaller ones. This genetically influenced condition can cause pain and eventually can cripple an animal. At minimum, reduced activity and careful control of diet is required. But Goldens love to run and eat, so keeping a check on them will take a bit more effort.

Goldens are also prone to certain skin problems. They can readily get 'hot spots' from itching due to allergic reactions, flea bites and other causes. They also have a tendency, especially as they mature, to develop certain tumors and cancers. That opens the possibility of a shortened life, or at least increased vet bills.

Their diet needs to be carefully considered, in order to minimize itching, loose stools and other problems. But they also are very active dogs, so providing them with the right nutrients for energy and muscle and bone development is essential. Wheat and corn sensitivity is relatively common in Golden Retrievers who, like all dogs, are by nature meat eaters. A diet high in meat protein is best.

Since they're so active, they'll need lots of exercise. But because they are so social, they tend not to run around on their own. If left outside alone to play, they'll tend to simply lie down. That creates the need to interact with your Golden on a regular basis. Fetch, running, rope tug and other games are perfect for your Golden. But those all require your participation. Be sure you have adequate time for this breed.

Whether to spay or neuter a Golden is always a tough decision. There are valid medical reasons to consider the procedure, since it will tend to lower the odds of developing certain cancers and other health risks. But many want to breed their Golden to produce puppies. That's a valid choice, but if one of the reasons is to make money, save that for the professionals. The effort required is far greater than you'll be compensated for from one or two litters.

Vaccinations is another area of some controversy among Golden owners, as it is with other breeds. Most professionals agree that a series of vaccinations is best early in life. How long that should be continued, past the first two years, is a matter for ongoing debate. Some argue that regular vaccinations represents 'playing it safe', others that shots are unnecessary and risky. Antibodies do remain in the system for several years and the issue is still under investigation.

Regular grooming will be needed, since Goldens have a long coat that takes weekly care in order to stay healthy. Bi-monthly bathing, weekly toenail trimming and similar maintenance activities are an ongoing chore. Be prepared to spend time on this in order to keep a healthy and happy dog.

Socializing them with other dogs is easy, but also required for mental health and physical safety. Introducing newcomers, both human and animal, early in life will make the process straightforward. But it needs to be done gradually and for an extended period for best results.

It's true that Golden Retrievers require time and effort to train and care for properly. But the rewards are immense. These beautiful, loving animals will give back tenfold all the attention they receive.

That unique Golden Retriever look as they face you smiling tells the whole story.

Most dogs have their favorite toy. But Goldens have some unique requirements that make selecting the right gear a little trickier.

Leashes, Collars and Harnesses

Since they can get relatively large, a good leash or harness is a must. But what is 'good' in this case? The average male Golden is 22-24 inches (56-61 cm) in height and between 65-80 lbs (30-36 kg) in weight. Females are slightly shorter and about 10-20 lbs lighter. But that's an average for purebreds. Male Goldens can easily reach 100 lbs, especially if they're even a slightly mixed breed.

That height and weight requires a very strong collar and leash or harness. At the same time, you want one that doesn't tear your hand or require enormous strength to control. A wide leash made of good nylon mesh or leather will fit the bill. Plastic, self-locking clips on collars are made these days of astoundingly strong composites and will serve the purpose well.

A chest harness isn't mandatory, but using one can make it easier on the owner and dog. Some individuals are more inclined to pull than others, some are more easily distracted. A chest harness will make it easier to control the dog and avoids stress on its throat.

Toys

Golden Retrievers are by nature very mouthy. They love to chew on rawhide bones, balls and every other imaginable object. Though, they're not particularly prone to chew on shoes, clothing or furniture, if properly trained and provided with alternatives.

Giving them plenty of alternatives helps keep their teeth clean and their chewing desire satisfied. Since they love attention it also gives their human companion a much needed break. Unlike children, you can't occupy a Golden with TV.

Specialized plastics and rubber compounds are a blessing for Golden Retriever owners, since they provide a broad set of safe, healthy chew toy alternatives. Rawhide bones are another good choice, but avoid the flavored or coated ones in the house, since they'll stain the carpet.

Don't give your Golden real bones unless they are the large, non-splinter type manufactured for chewing. Chicken bones, and even real beef bones can shatter and splinter making for an unhealthy situation.

Golden Retrievers love to play tug. They have incredibly strong necks and jaws and it's perfectly safe to play a vigorous game of tug with a Golden over a few months of age. Ropes with knots at the end are the best option, since it gives the dog something to grab onto. And something for you to grab, too. A full grown Golden can easily beat you at tug!

Other

More complex gear is available for specialized training. Obstacle courses, tunnels and a wide variety of other arrangements can be used for show training, or just for fun. Goldens are smart, energetic and eager to please. Watching them wind their way up ramps and through tunnels is fun for both dog and owner. Just make sure it's large enough to accommodate your pet as he or she grows.

Like many other topics relating to food and health, it's difficult to get objective information about proper diet. Many authors seem intent on bashing large companies and more interested in politics than pet food.

That means anyone interested in finding out the scientific facts about what is and what isn't good for their Golden Retriever has to do a lot of research. A short article can't be anything more than another voice in that dialogue.

Selecting the proper food, therefore, will require the exercise of some common sense and a fair amount of diligence. Any extreme claim should be met with skepticism. Avoid being swayed by emotional appeals and horror stories.

Even those opposed to the more popular, commercial dog foods agree on some basics about Golden Retriever diet. As canines, they are by nature carnivores. That means they have evolved to eat meat. All dogs, though (and Goldens in particular), have the capacity to digest some grains and vegetables.

Wolves in the wild will eat not only the muscle meat, but also the internal organs of their prey. In doing so, they'll ingest what their kill has previously eaten, which is often grasses and vegetables and other plant material. Since Golden Retrievers ultimately are descended from, and closely genetically related to, wolves they have similar capacities.

There is general agreement, then, that Golden Retrievers should have a diet that contains a substantial percentage of meat proteins with a minimum of grains. And this is just what one finds in most commercial dog food, both wet and dry.

Ingredients on both cans and bags are listed in order of percentage of the total, even though the percentages themselves are rarely listed.

A kibble (dry dog food) that shows chicken or lamb meal will generally be in the range of 20-30% meat protein, in a form that has been dehydrated. To that has been added preservatives, sometimes Vitamin E (tocopherol), in order to keep the kibble from spoiling during the long period it is in the bag. Meat (in some form) should be first on the list.

Next is often a form of rice. Some will use an inexpensive form called Brewer's Rice. Those are the small, milled fragments of rice kernels. These become separated from the larger kernels during the milling process. But ground rice is preferred, since it's of higher quality.

Many commercial dry pet foods will have some corn or wheat gluten meal or even wheat flour. Some Goldens are sensitive to this, as evidenced by excessive paw licking or face scratching on the carpet or grass. They may bite the parts of their back and legs they can reach.

A certain amount of that behavior may be seen no matter what diet they're fed. Like any animal, they can have an itch that is not an allergic reaction. But, sensitive or not, these ingredients should comprise a relatively small proportion of the total.

Corn gluten meal in particular should be kept low. It's a plant protein that is added in order to slow down the chemical activity of certain fats. It is created from the dried residue of corn after the removal of the starch and germ.

Meat byproducts are often listed among the ingredients. These are the parts of chickens, lamb or cows that are not used for other purposes. Certain foods may contain parts of the neck, feet or even beaks or intestines. Avoid foods that list these as ingredients.

Though the controversy over what to feed your Golden Retriever isn't going to go away soon, you can still feed your dog without fear. Observe the thousands of dogs that are healthy who are fed popular commercial dog foods. Though the food could no doubt be improved, this is strong evidence they are not harmful. Millions of dogs eat them and live long, happy lives.

Golden Retrievers are among the more active breeds and require a lot of exercise to stay fit and happy. Originally bred for game fetching, these energetic dogs can run much of the day, even late into life.

Training and exercise should start young, at around 8-10 weeks. At first the level of activity should be no more than what the pup is willing to do spontaneously. They'll scamper around, explore bushes and wrestle with one another in between naps. Getting them to follow you in a particular direction, at least briefly. That's the beginning of focusing on you and doing as you ask.

As they mature, their legs and heart quickly become able to tackle small hills and half-mile walks. At about 4-6 months, a good half an hour hike is a possibility, provided water is available.

During this period from about two to six months, the usual 'sit, stay, heel' routines can easily be folded into the mix. But there should be time allowed for less structured activities, as well. Golden retrievers can be good show dogs, but they are also very free-spirited and sometimes a little unfocused. Not all will excel at that kind of rigorous training. Giving them some time and space to simply run around and fetch a ball or sniff makes for a good balance.

By the time your Golden retrievers has reached six months of age, they're ready to tackle more complex tasks. Many are taught starting at this age (or a little younger) to be guide dogs, rescue dogs, drug search dogs and other roles requiring sophisticated skills. They're among the most intelligent of breeds and can learn obstacle courses, complex dance routines and the like provided the trainer has the skill and patience.

Also during this early period, introducing them to other dogs and animals they may encounter or live with is a good idea. Golden Retrievers are by nature very sociable, but any dog that is isolated from other dogs, people or pets will be wary. Golden Retrievers are very loyal, too, and they can be territorial. Allowing them to safely interact with other dogs will help keep that to an appropriate time and level.

A word of caution: since Golden Retrievers, especially those with parents from private owners, may not have been checked for hip dysplasia, you should discontinue exercise at any sign of hindquarter weakness. Have the dog examined. The vet will take an x-ray and check for signs of bone or joint problems. Goldens with this condition can still lead happy, healthy lives but reduced activity and special treatment is warranted.

Like any dog, specialized training will take time. At least an hour per day should be devoted for basics, more for more specialized tasks. Simple goals, like 'sit', 'stay' and others can be accomplished quickly. Dance routines, obstacle courses, game fetching or other tasks may take months or years to perfect. Guide dog training and similar 'jobs' require intensive training for two years or more.

But compared to many other breeds, Golden Retrievers will catch on quicker and execute more accurately. They're eager to please, energetic and highly intelligent. Their trainer just needs to have the same qualities.

Apart from hip dysplasia, there are half a dozen common conditions or diseases that Golden Retrievers tend to suffer from. Of course, that is not saying most Golden retrievers are unhealthy. They suffer no more than any other breed. But there are a group of afflictions that are more typically found among them than some others.

Skin diseases and conditions top the list of concerns for most Golden Retriever caretakers. Something as simple as a mosquito or flea bite can cause a small itchy section. Golden Retrievers are very mouthy and tend to chew what they can reach. That quickly produces a raw, moist patch called a hot spot that the dog tends to enlarge. Keeping them unable to reach it via a collar or bandage, or uninterested via sprays is the standard treatment.

Goldens also have a higher tendency than some other breeds to allergic reactions to certain food components. Wheat is a common part of many dry commercial dog foods. Though not toxic, dogs' stomachs are designed to digest meat not wheat, and some individuals are sensitive to wheat, causing itching. That can be seen by excess paw licking or face scratching on the carpet or grass.

But the more serious forms of skin disease actually happen underneath the outer layers. Various forms of fatty lipomas and the more serious liposarcoma are common, especially later in life.

The first are typically benign and can be removed when the dog is already undergoing a procedure requiring anasthesia, such as a dental cleaning. They may enlarge, but in most cases they represent no health risk and can just be left alone for long periods. Liposarcomas, on the other hand, are malignant tumors and should be treated as soon as they're diagnosed. When in doubt, see your vet and pay for a lab test.

Eye problems are common among older Golden Retrievers, with many getting cataracts past age 10 or so. Eventually these lead to reduced vision and even blindness. There's little that can be done to treat the condition, unfortunately.

Golden Retrievers aren't at high risk statistically for heart conditions, but when they occur it tends to be either subvalvular aortic stenosis or cardiomyopathy.

Subvalvular aortic stenosis is a form of obstruction in the left ventricle that reduces blood flow. In mild cases, the condition is harmless, though restricted activity may be required. In more serious cases, the heart muscle tissue thickens and the heart has to work harder to pump an adequate amount of blood. The condition is generally inherited and treatment varies from mild antibiotics to beta blockers. Surgery is an option, but it's risky and has had limited success to date.

Did you know water is the most important nutrient?  All the beneficial ingredients that go into the best dog foods will not help your dog if he is not drinking enough water.

Adult dog’s bodies are 60% water and a puppy’s body is 84% water. Dogs can lose all of their fat and half of their protein without adversely affecting their health, but a 10 % water loss can cause significant problems.

Dog owners should place as much attention on the importance of the quality of the water their dog drinks as they do on the ingredients that go into the best dog foods; not all water is the same.

A benchmark for clean drinking water for dogs, is similar to the criteria for clean drinking water for people.  Tap water generally provides the best nutrients and least contaminants; however, if the tap water contains high amounts of nitrates, magnesium and iron it can cause long term health risks. 

For those who fear their tap water may be contaminated, then bottled water is an alternative choice. Stainless steel and stoneware dishes are safe choices for food and water bowls.  Plastic bowls may scratch giving contaminates and bacteria an ideal place to live.  Water should be cool in the summer and room temperature in the winter.  The dogs' bowl should always be clean.  If you wouldn't drink the water - change the water.

Fresh water should be accessible to dogs at all times. This is even more important than buying the best dog foods on the market. Dogs need three times more water than food every day.  They need even more if it is extremely hot, if the dog is lactating, or if the dog is exercising more than normal. Dogs that eat canned dog food do not drink as much water because of the high amount of water contained in the canned food.

Often, sick dogs don’t want to drink as much water as they need, although the illness increases the need for water.  When this happens a dog can quickly become dehydrated.  To check for dehydration, dog owners can pull upward on the dog’s skin.  If the skin snaps back, the dog is sufficiently hydrated, if it takes several seconds for the skin to go back, fluids may need to be replaces intravenously or subcutaneously.

Owner should not offer water to vomiting dogs; this is perhaps the only time not to make sure dogs don’t have access to water. If a dog vomits for a twenty-four hour period he should see a vet immediately.

In addition to better health, proper hydration also contributes to the performance of a dog.  Many owners of working dogs flavor their dog’s food in order to make sure they are drinking the appropriate amounts.  Studies have proven that proper hydration increases working ability by 80%. The next time you pour one of those best dog foods into your dogs bowl, remember if the dog doesn’t have the right amount of clean water the food is useless.