Why Is Cancer So Common in Golden Retrievers?    

By Melody Jung 

ImpriMed 

Golden retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide, celebrated for their friendly demeanor, intelligence, and loyalty. Unfortunately, these wonderful companions face a high cancer risk, with about 60% developing some form of cancer in their lifetime. Their popularity, especially in the United States, has led to breeding practices that increase genetic mutations, heightening their vulnerability to diseases. 

Historically, golden retrievers lived longer, often reaching 16-17 years of age. But over the last 50 years, their lifespan has dropped significantly, now averaging just 10-14 years. This shift is largely due to genetic predispositions exacerbated by breeding trends. Studies show American golden retrievers have a much higher cancer rate than European counterparts. In the U.S., 61.4% of goldens pass away from cancer, compared to 38.8% in Europe. 

Goldens are most susceptible to four types of cancer—lymphoma, hemangiosarcoma, osteosarcoma, and mast cell tumors. These four cancers account for about 80% of cancer deaths in the breed. Factors like environmental toxins and the intense demand for goldens over decades have played a role in the breed’s declining health. 

To better understand genetic factors, Morris Animal Foundation’s Golden Retriever Lifetime Study collects health data on golden retrievers from different backgrounds. This research aims to identify the environmental and genetic factors that contribute to cancer, allowing scientists and veterinarians to develop targeted preventive measures and treatment options. 

Lymphoma in Golden Retrievers 

Golden retrievers are particularly prone to lymphoma, a systemic cancer that affects lymphocytes—key cells in the immune system. Around 9.25% of all canine lymphoma cases are found in golden retrievers, making them the most common breed to develop this disease. Lymphoma can affect various areas of the body, presenting different outcomes and requiring specific treatments depending on the type and location. The four main types of lymphoma are: 

Multicentric Lymphoma: Affects the whole body, is the most common form. 

Alimentary Lymphoma: Primarily affects gastrointestinal tract. 

Mediastinal Lymphoma: Impacts chest and lungs. 

Extranodal Lymphoma: Develops outside lymph nodes, in areas like the skin. 

Golden retrievers are also highly susceptible to T-zone lymphoma, a slow-progressing type that has a much longer survival time—often up to 2.5 years after diagnosis—compared to other forms. T-zone lymphoma affects T-cells specifically, offering a less aggressive pathway and allowing some golden retrievers to maintain a good quality of life for longer. 

Treatment Options for Lymphoma 

Although canine lymphoma isn’t curable, early diagnosis can make a significant difference. Chemotherapy is the primary treatment for lymphoma in dogs, with the 

CHOP protocol—a combination of Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Vincristine, and Prednisone—often being the preferred choice due to its effectiveness. While most goldens tolerate chemotherapy well, each dog’s response can vary, and individualized care is crucial to avoid adverse effects. 

For dogs with T-zone lymphoma, less aggressive treatments may be chosen, as chemotherapy may not extend survival times in these cases. Alternatives like radiation therapy, surgery, and steroid-only treatments can be used to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Radiation therapy, for instance, can target localized areas, whereas steroids help mitigate symptoms without putting the body under the stress of full chemotherapy. 

How ImpriMed Supports Individualized Canine Cancer Treatment 

Golden retrievers, like many other breeds, are often treated with standardized protocols. However, ImpriMed uses advanced laboratory techniques and artificial intelligence to develop Personalized Prediction Profiles for each dog with lymphoma. These profiles are crafted from the dog’s live cancer cells, analyzed to determine the best chemotherapy drugs for optimal treatment outcomes. 

Through this innovative approach, ImpriMed offers personalized treatment plans that give golden retrievers—and other dogs fighting lymphoma—the best possible chance for remission, improved quality of life, and potentially extended lifespans.