You brush, you bathe, you love them endlessly… but are you skipping the two quiet health killers?
We get it, when it comes to keeping your Golden healthy, most of the focus goes to the big stuff. Nutrition. Vaccines. Exercise. Vet visits. All important.
But two of the most overlooked areas of canine health are also two of the most common sources of preventable issues:
Ear care and dental hygiene.
And trust us, if you’ve ever had to deal with a chronic ear infection or tooth extraction, you know just how fast those vet bills (and your stress levels) can add up.
Let’s break it down.
The Importance of Ear Care in Golden Retrievers
Golden Retrievers have adorable, floppy ears, and while we all love the look, it’s the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to build up. This happens because air doesn’t circulate well under those flaps, and moisture gets trapped.
Signs of trouble:
- Head shaking
- Scratching at the ears
- Redness or foul odor
- Sensitivity when touched
Ignoring these signs (or not proactively cleaning ears) can lead to painful infections, hearing loss, and long-term issues.
Our breeder-backed advice:
- Clean ears weekly with a dog-safe ear rinse
- Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing
- Avoid sticking anything deep into the canal (just gentle surface cleaning with a cotton round)
- Use a product like PawTree’s Ear Wash & Dry, we love this one because it’s gentle, effective, and easy to use
Bonus tip: Avoid over-cleaning. You want to remove excess wax and debris, but not strip the ears completely dry
Why Dental Hygiene Is Non-Negotiable
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), over 80% of dogs have some form of dental disease by age three. That’s not just about bad breath.
Plaque turns into tartar. Tartar irritates the gums. Inflammation leads to infections, and bacteria from those infections can affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. It’s a big deal.
What we recommend:
- Brush your Golden’s teeth 2–3 times a week (daily is best!)
- Use a dog-safe toothbrush and toothpaste—never human toothpaste
- Supplement with dental chews like PawTree’s Plaque Control, which helps reduce buildup between brushes
- Add in healthy, crunchy treats (like freeze-dried raw) to support natural cleaning
We also recommend regular dental checkups during annual vet visits. And yes—just like with people, some dogs may need professional cleanings now and then
In Conclusion
It doesn’t have to be complicated. A quick ear check and a quick tooth brushing can go a long way in keeping your Golden healthy, happy, and out of the vet’s office. When you make this a priority, you’re not just avoiding problems, you’re building trust. Regular grooming routines create bonding moments and help your dog feel calm, safe, and cared for.
So if these two health areas have fallen to the bottom of your to-do list, consider this your friendly nudge: bump them back to the top. Your Golden’s future self will thank you!
Don’t forget to check out PawTree for ALL of your Golden’s needs. We love and trust their products.
