Golden Retriever Skin Problems

Golden retrievers are indeed one of the best dog breeds with a great amount of charm as well as intelligence. But, as in any other dog breed, these dogs are also prone to certain health problems, especially skin problems. Even though, you take much care through regular brushing and grooming Golden Retrievers, they may sometimes develop certain skin problems that may go unnoticed due to the lush golden coat. So, it is very much important to check for skin changes, if you own a Golden Retriever. A basic idea about some of the common skin problems in this dog breed may help you in identifying the condition at the very onset.

Skin Diseases in Golden Retrievers

So, Golden Retrievers are prone to skin problems that may be caused by various factors, like, allergens, heredity, skin parasites, fungi and even cancer. It has also been noticed that most of these dogs have sensitive skin that needs special products, like, medicated shampoos. So, let us take a look at some of the skin problems that are commonly found in Golden Retrievers.

Hot Spot: One of the common Golden Retriever skin diseases, hot spots, which is otherwise known as acute moist dermatitis, moist eczema or summer sores. This condition is characterized by sores or lesions that can be swollen and itchy. In some cases, these sores or patches may be filled with pus. Primarily, hot spots are caused by excessive itching, scratching or licking of an area. But, later secondary infections may be caused by bacteria. The itching, scratching and licking that paved for this condition may be caused by various factors, like, allergies, flea bites, infections, chemical irritants, like, pesticides, etc. As their coat is too thick, moisture is easily trapped, paving way to bacterial infections. Whatever may be the cause, these lesions can cause severe itching and pain to the animal. If not treated properly, the condition may spread too. Treatment includes medications, like, antihistamines, antibiotics, etc., and this must be supplemented with a good diet with meat.

Canine Allergies: As in many other dog breeds, allergies are common in Golden Retrievers. They can be allergic to food or other allergens, like, pollen, weeds, grass, certain chemicals, etc. Even though, allergies do not directly cause any skin problem, itching is one of the symptoms of allergies. This is one of the prime reasons for Golden Retriever skin irritation. Such itching may lead to secondary conditions, like, seborrhea, hot spots, eczema, etc. Allergies are treated with antihistamines, cortisone and sometimes, antibiotics.

Canine Seborrhea: This is another skin disease in Golden Retrievers and the condition may be either hereditary or caused by factors, like, allergies, thyroid disorders, pancreatic diseases, etc. If this skin problem is caused by heredity, then, the condition has to be managed properly. But, in case of underlying causes, treating such conditions may provide relief from seborrhea. The most common symptoms of this condition include yellowish scales that may crust over, greasy coat, offending odor, itchy skin, etc. This condition may also lead to secondary infections. Management of the condition is done with specific shampoos and conditioners, along with a diet, as recommended by the vet.

Canine Mange: Mange is one of the common skin diseases in dogs and is caused by mites. Golden retrievers are also prone to this condition. There are two types of mange - sarcoptic mange and demodectic mange. While, the first condition is characterized by severe itching, open sores, crusts on the ears, elbows, etc., the latter one may not cause much problems, other than mild hair loss and small patches. But, sarcoptic mange is easier to cure than demodectic mange, which is often found to be inherited. But, both forms are highly contagious. Antibiotics and topical medications are prescribed for treating this condition.

Other Golden Retriever Skin Problems: Apart from the above said, Golden Retrievers can also be affected by parasites, like, fleas and ticks that may cause itching and even secondary diseases. In such cases, flea shampoos and tick repellents have to be used as per the instructions of the vet. You must also be cautious about the skin growths in your Golden Retriever. Such growths could be either benign or malignant. Some of the common skin growths include acne, abscess, lipoma, papilloma, etc. So, if you notice any such growth, contact the vet and get it diagnosed and treated.

As in case of most of the other dog breeds, Golden Retrievers are also prone to health problems, including skin problems. So, if you are having one of these dogs in your house, make sure that you check its coat as well as skin on a regular basis, so that such problems can be detected at the earliest. Regular brushing and grooming will also help to prevent such problems to some extent. If you notice any skin changes, take your dog to the vet and get it diagnosed and treated.