Genetic Testing: The Unseen Lifesaver

Common Golden Retriever Genetic Diseases

The following are the top five genetic diseases for Golden Retrievers of concern and here at PGF, we ensure any potential mate to our dogs has been tested for these markers at a minimum. We test our dogs using Embark which actually tests for 273 genetic markers! Even if you do not pick PGF as your breeder, please ensure the breeder you select is doing their part to protect the Golden Retriever breed by asking for copies of the puppy parent’s genetics. If they refuse that request, please consider another breeder.

Ichthyosis (ICH / ICT)

Commonly referred to as "Fish Scale Disease," this condition prevents the outer layer of the skin from forming properly. It results in darkened, thick skin with excessive flaking (similar to heavy human dandruff). It is very common in Golden Retrievers and symptoms usually show up before the puppy's first birthday.

• Note on Skin Issues: Goldens have thick double coats and floppy ears, making them naturally prone to hot spots or dry skin depending on climate, diet, and grooming. Just because a dog is flaky does not automatically mean they have ICH! We test all our dogs to ensure we never produce an affected puppy. We recommend high-quality grooming products like Life's Abundance to keep their coats healthy.

Muscular Dystrophy (MD)

This results from a lack of dystrophin, a protein necessary for proper muscle function. This causes progressive muscle degeneration. Symptoms generally start showing between 6 to 8 weeks of age and include difficulty swallowing, an enlarged tongue, difficulty breathing, excessive drooling, and general muscle weakness. There is no cure, making screening critical.

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)

This is a spinal cord disease similar to ALS in humans that typically shows up in older dogs (between 8 and 14 years old). It results in a slow loss of coordination in the hind limbs, leading to wobbling, dragging paws, and eventual paralysis. There is no cure.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA 1, PRA 2, and prcd-PRA)

PRA is the canine equivalent of retinitis pigmentosa in humans. It causes the photoreceptor cells in the retina to slowly degenerate, eventually leading to complete, painless blindness. There is no treatment or cure.

Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL)

NCL is a severe hereditary neurodegenerative disorder where lipopigments build up excessively in the body's tissues, damaging nerve cells. First symptoms usually appear around 15 months of age and include anxiety, constant circling, tremors, aggression, seizures, and visual impairment. There is no cure or treatment.