<P> They may suffer from heart disease, especially subvalvular aortic stenosis, and cardiomyopathy and joint diseases, including patella luxation, osteochondritis, panosteitis, and cruciate ligament rupture . In addition to the heavy shedding they experience (and their constant lighter shedding throughout the year), Golden Retrievers can suffer from skin diseases; the most prevalent skin problem is allergies (often leading to acute moist dermatitis or "hot spots"), with the most common allergy being to fleas . They can also suffer from seborrhoea, sebaceous adenitis, self - inflicted lick granuloma, and haemophilia . </P> <P> Golden Retrievers require regular grooming and occasional baths . Their coats shed somewhat during the year, but are known to shed profusely twice a year . They also need to have their ears cleaned regularly, or ear infections might occur . While shedding is unavoidable, frequent grooming (daily to weekly) lessens the amount of hair shed by the animal . Severe shedding resulting in bald patches can be indicative of stress or sickness . </P> <P> The Golden Retriever's eagerness to please has made it a consistent, top performer in the obedience and agility rings . Its excellent swimming ability makes it proficient at dock jumping . A natural retrieving ability means it is also competitive in flyball and field trials . </P> <P> The first three dogs ever to achieve the AKC Obedience Champion title were Golden Retrievers; the first of the three was a female named' Ch. Moreland's Golden Tonka' . </P>

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