German Shepherds are at their peak between 2 and 6. The German Shepherd is at its best in terms of physical and mental agility.Their large size makes them at a higher chance of developing cancer, muscular and skeletal issues, as well as other health conditions that can affect their lifespan.
German Shepherds of the working line often live more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet rich in nutrients to help them meet their high activity levels and demands for exercise.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds are prone to various health issues that include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy and Cushing's disease. Knowing these issues and taking appropriate steps to prevent or treat them can help your dog live a longer life. Regular veterinary checks, entzückende schäferhund welpen proper nutrition, and daily exercise are the keys to maintaining good health for this large breed.
Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) occurs when a pet's body produces too much cortisol, a natural steroid. A tumor in the adrenal glands, or pituitary glands, is the most frequent cause of the condition. In between 80% and 85percent of cases, the tumor is located on the pituitary, which is a small organ that is located close to the brain's base. Around 15% of the cases, the tumor is located on the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys.
If a pet suffers from Cushing's, it becomes active and eats more than normal. The condition also causes increased thirst and urination, which means the pet will need to drink more fluids and go outside more often to take a break from the toilet. Loss of hair, a potbelly appearance, and a lack of energy are other symptoms of the disease.
A vet can diagnose this disorder by drawing blood and then executing the adrenocorticotropic stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and measuring the adrenal response. The results will show how high or low the patient's cortisol level is.
Once a dog has been diagnosed with Cushing's, he will need medication for the remainder of his life. This medication will slow the growth of the tumor and keep his symptoms under control. If they are properly monitored and treated, most dogs suffering from this condition have normal lives. The condition could be fatal, however, if it's not treated and diagnosed early enough.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds suffering from epilepsy that is properly diagnosed and treated can live an extended and healthy life. Uncontrolled seizures can cause a dog to die due to oxygen deprivation or a traumatic injury. Epilepsy that is not treated properly can result in depression or the inability to eat and drink.
The impact of epilepsy on German Shepherds could be affected by the way in which the condition is handled by the owner. Owners who can be vigilant about their dog's medication and devise strategies to manage seizures, as well as create an extensive network of support, are more likely to extend the pet's lifespan.
As with all breeds of dog German Shepherds are also prone to suffering from dental diseases. If left untreated, this issue could cause irreparable damage to gums and teeth and even result in infection in other parts of the body, like the liver, kidneys and the heart. Regular dental hygiene for dogs can reduce the risk of this problem.
The chests that are deep in the Shepherd breed makes them more prone to bloat. This stomach condition is dangerous and can occur when the intestines twitch and fill with gas, causing a cutoff in blood flow to the stomach and spleen. The condition can be fatal in less than 30 minutes if it is not treated promptly. If your Shepherd shows symptoms of bloat like retching, heaving, or an overly full stomach or is in a prayer position (front feet are down, the rear is up), you should bring them to an emergency vet immediately.
German Shepherds who suffer from bloat are at a higher chance of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. It is essential to be on top of your dog's veterinary care and preventative measures.
Elbow Dysplasia
The elbow is a hinge between the humerus (the long bone of the upper forelimb) and the radius and ulna, (the two bones of the lower forelimb). The three bones need to fit together perfectly for a lifetime of motion. If they don't, a condition called elbow dysplasia is created. It's the most frequent cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs.
In some cases of the disease, the cartilage between bones erodes and leads to swelling, pain and lameness. The damage is not irreparable, so early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
The first signs of the disease in dogs are a mild limp or a sporadic one, especially after exercise or when getting up from a seated position. As the disease advances, the dog's elbow range of motion decreases. There could also be fluid in the joint.
There are three main types of elbow dysplasia: Fragmented Coronoid Process, Osteochondrosis of the Humeral Condyle, and Ununited Anconeal Process. Each of these conditions is distinct in its appearance on x-rays and may be seen in one or both elbows.
Screening for elbows and hips of breeding animals is currently the best option to avoid these issues. But, despite screenings these conditions can still happen. Breeding only dogs whose elbows have been proven healthy is the most effective approach. This will stop the genetics for elbow dysplasia being passed onto offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy is an illness of the nervous system that slowly affects the spinal cord of German Shepherd dogs and causes weakness in the hind legs. DM symptoms usually appear in older dogs, and can progress to paralysis. The condition is believed to be the canine equivalent of Lou Gehrig's disease (amyotrophic lateral-sclerosis). Despite being genetically predisposed to this condition, it's unclear why some dogs develop the disease while others do not.
Unfortunately, there's no cure for DM. The symptoms can be treated by medication, but the condition is progressive and eventually leads to paralysis of the forelimbs as well. Some dogs are able to endure for months or years with a high quality of life, but it is typical for owners to choose to end the life of their pet when they are incapable of standing or walking on their own.
To diagnose DM, your vet will conduct a thorough medical history and conduct an examination of the brain. The neurologist will search for other conditions that have similar clinical signs and will request blood samples to test for the genetic mutations that are associated with this disease. A cerebrospinal fluid sample will also be taken to allow for analysis and exclude other diseases. The neurologist may recommend MRI imaging with our advanced diagnostic imaging service. This will enable your vet to pinpoint the regions of the spinal cord that are affected by DM and monitor progression of the disease over time. Additionally physical rehabilitation therapy is frequently beneficial for DM patients and can help slow the progression of the disease.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are prone to certain health issues that may impact their life expectancy. Knowing these conditions and how they affect your dog can help you take preventative measures that support their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the "doughnut" of the spinal disc doesn't remain in its proper position. Each disk has an outer fibrous ring known as an annulus. It also has a soft nucleus which absorbs impact. When herniated, the softer nucleus may strike the spinal cord with great force, causing extreme pain, weakness, or even paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative disorder however, sudden trauma could cause herniation.
Type I IVDD is characterised by a sudden rupture into the spinal canal of nucleus of the disc. This can cause severe pain in the back arching back, a weakness of the limbs in the rear and lameness in the hind limbs. It may be accompanied by incontinence, weakness, or incoordination. If the spinal cord becomes compressed and dies it will cause your dog to become completely paralyzed and often not able to use their rear legs even.
The onset of IVDD type II is more gradual and usually occurs in older dogs. Normal wear and tear causes annulus fibers to expand with fluid. This leads to compression and herniation of the spine. In contrast to Type I IVDD, this form isn't caused by trauma or intense exercise. The symptoms include a reluctance to turn the head or back, an arched back and an appearance of weak or wobbly on the back legs.
