Several Common Dogs Problems

What is hip dysplasia? Genetic and environmental in origin,

it is the malformation of the ball and socket joints of the hips. Severe forms cause lameness and may require surgery. Diagnosis is only by x-ray.

Low thyroid or hypothyroidism may be genetic and is also associated with poor immunity. There may be physical signs, such as weight gain, lethargy, poor coat, infertility in both sexes and longer than normal periods of time between heats cycles.

A thyroid test will indicate if there is a problem. Daily medication will correct the thyroid levels and return a dog to normal.

Lymphosarcoma is a form of cancer, which affects the lymph system, is becoming alarmingly common in many related and unrelated families of dogs. Symptoms may include poor appetite, lethargy and chronically swollen lymph nodes.

Treatment can prolong a dog’s life for much as a year. Dogs may be genetically predisposed to it, and it is linked to autoimmune problems.

Osteochondritis dissecans or OCD appears to be a genetic predisposition to malformation of the cartilage of the long bones that subsequently results in the injury of that cartilage. This can be treated by rest in minor cases or surgery. X-rays verify this condition.

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is less common in Goldens than cataracts, but it still occurs. PRA is a gradual degeneration of the cells of the retina. It first occurs in middle ages dogs and leads to loss of vision.

Diagnosis is the same as for cataracts. CERF (Canine Eye Registry Foundation) was established to benefit breeding programs by registering dogs whose eyes test free of genetic problems.

Skin allergies and hot spots is a genetic predisposition to skin allergies may exist. The thick undercoat, especially if it stays damp, is an excellent environment for the development of hot spots.