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Question
Hi,
My golden is 6 months old and 60 pounds.  Lately she seems to be getting "lazy".  She used to be so full on energy.  She sleeps a lot, and almost seems to stuggle to get up from a laying position.  It seems like getting her hind legs up is tough.  She can still run well so they are not in constant pain.  I just wanted to know if getting up like this is common with a lot of goldens.

Answer
Cynthia,

It isn't uncommon for goldens to reach a "lazy" stage at 6 months of age. Mine slept a lot and had wobbly back legs around this time.

To be on the safe side however, take her to the vet so he/she can examine her for hip dysplasia. HD is a well known ailment of the golden and bigger breeds. This not to say all goldens will get HD, it really depends on the breeding.

Even after a clear diagnosis against HD, you may notice some limping and lameness as the golden is growing. Mine had growing pains up until the 8th month and then again around the 10th month. She has been cleared of having HD.

When you notice your golden sleeping a fair amount more than usual, they are also growing. After a long sleep, you may notice a bigger dog! It has happened to us several times so we know its coming.

Good luck with your pup! Mail me any time!

Anai Rhoads