German Shepherds are at their peak between 2 and 6 years old. They're at their strongest in terms of physical fitness and mental sharpness.
Their large size puts them at a greater risk of developing cancer muscular and skeletal issues, as well as other health conditions that may affect their lifespan.German Shepherds from the working line typically lead more active lives than their show line counterparts. They need a diet rich in nutrients to support their active lifestyles and exercise.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds can suffer from numerous health issues like elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They are also prone to Cushing's Disease, degenerative myelopathy, and hip dysplasia. Understanding these ailments and taking the correct steps to prevent or treat them can allow your dog to have a longer lifespan. Regular veterinary visits, good diet, and regular exercise are the key to a healthy and happy large breed.
Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) occurs when a pet's body produces too much cortisol, a natural steroid. The condition is typically caused by a tumor on the pituitary gland or on one of the adrenal glands. In 80 to 85% of cases, the tumor occurs on the pituitary, which is a small organ that is located close to the base of the brain. In approximately 15% of cases, the tumor is on one of the adrenal glands, which are located on the top of the kidneys.
Cushing's disease causes pets to be more active and consume more food than usual. The condition can also cause an increase in thirst and the need to urinate. This means that the pet has to drink more water and also go outside for toilet breaks more often. Hair loss, a pot-bellied appearance, and a lack of energy are other symptoms of the disease.
A vet can diagnose this disorder by drawing blood and then performing the adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and then measuring the adrenal response. The results show how high or low his cortisol levels are.
Once a dog has been diagnosed with Cushing's disease, he will need medication for the duration of his life. The medication will slow down the growth of the tumor and keep the symptoms under control. The majority of dogs suffering from this condition are able to live normal lives when they are properly treated and monitored. However, the condition could be fatal if not treated and diagnosed early.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds with epilepsy that is properly treated and diagnosed can live a long and healthy existence. However, a dog that suffers from uncontrolled seizures may die from oxygen deficiency or injury during seizures. Untreated epilepsy can also cause depression, or the inability to eat and drink.
The way the owner manages the condition can affect the effects of epilepsy in German Shepherds. The owners who are able to be vigilant about their dog's medication and devise strategies to manage seizures and build an extensive network of support, are more likely to prolong their pet's life.
Like other breeds of dogs German Shepherds, too, suffer from dental problems. Untreated, this condition can cause severe damage to the gums and teeth and may lead to infections in other organs, such as the kidneys, the liver and the heart. Regular dental visits for dogs can reduce the chance of developing this condition.
Shepherds are at a higher risk of bloat than many other breeds, due to their deep, narrow chests. This stomach-related disorder can be deadly when the intestines twitch and become filled with gas, causing a cutoff in blood flow to the stomach and spleen. If not treated promptly, this condition can be fatal in less than 30 minutes. If your Shepherd exhibits signs of bloat, such as crying or heaving, without food coming up or an abdominal bulge, or lying in a prayer posture (front feet down and the rear end up), take your pet to the emergency vet immediately.
German Shepherds that experience bloat are at a higher chance of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. It is important to stay on top of your dog's medical care and preventative measures.
Elbow Dysplasia
The elbow is an articulation 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 must fit perfectly to allow for a lifetime of motion. When they do not, a condition known as elbow dysplasia develops. It's the most common cause of lameness in front legs (limping) in dogs.
In certain instances the cartilage between the bones can erode, causing pain, swelling and lameness. This damage cannot be reversed and it is therefore crucial to diagnose and treat the condition at an early stage.
The earliest signs of the disease in a dog are a mild or intermittent limp, mainly after exercise or when getting up from a sitting position. As the disease progresses, a dog's range-of-motion in the elbow decreases. There could be fluid in the joint.
There are three major types of elbow dysplasia: Fragmented Coronoid Process, Osteochondrosis of the Humeral Condyle, and Ununited Anconeal Process. Each of these conditions has a unique appearance on x-rays and can be present in one or both elbows.
Rigorous hip and elbow screening of breeding animals is currently the best option to avoid these issues. But, despite screenings these diseases can still occur. The most effective method is to breed only with dogs from parents that have been proven to have healthy elbows. This will ensure that the genes responsible for elbow dysplasia do not pass onto offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy is a neurological disorder that gradually affects the spinal cord of German Shepherd dogs and causes weakness in the hind legs. The signs of DM usually manifest in older dogs and may progress to paralysis. The condition is considered the canine equivalent to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease). It is unclear what causes dogs with this disease develop it and others don't, despite being genetically predisposed.
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for DM. Symptoms may be managed by medication, but the disease is progressive and eventually causes paralysis of the forelimbs as well. Some dogs can endure for months or even years with a good quality of life. However, it's common for owners to opt for to kill their pet if they are in a position to walk or stand on its own.
To determine if you have DM the doctor will take a detailed medical history and then conduct an examination of the neurological system. The neurologist checks for other illnesses that show similar clinical signs, and requests blood samples to determine the genetic mutations that cause this disease. A cerebrospinal fluid sample will also be taken to enable analysis and to exclude other diseases. Neurologists may recommend MRI imaging with our advanced diagnostic imaging service. This will allow your vet to identify areas of the spine that are affected with DM and entzüCkendescäferhundwelpen track the progression of the disease. Physical rehabilitation therapy may be beneficial for DM sufferers and can slow the progression of the condition.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are prone to health issues that may affect their life expectancy. Understanding these conditions and how they affect your dog can aid you in taking preventative measures to help ensure their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the "doughnut" of the spinal disc fails to stay in its proper place. Each disk has a tough fibrous outer ring called an annulus fibrosus, as well as an uncompressive nucleus pulposus within that absorbs the impact. If it is ruptured, the softer nucleus could hit the spinal cord with a great force, causing severe pain, weakness, or paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative condition, but sudden trauma can cause herniation.
Type I of IVDD is associated with the sudden rupture of the disc's nucleus material into the spinal canal and causes intense pain, back pain and back arching, weakness in the rear limbs and hind-limb lameness. It may be accompanied by incontinence, weakness, and incoordination. If the spinal cord becomes compressed and dies, then your dog will become completely crippled. They might not be able to walk on their rear legs.
Type II IVDD typically occurs in dogs that are older. Normal wear and tear causes annulus fibers to grow larger with fluid. This causes herniation and compression of the spine. This type of IVDD isn't triggered either by trauma or vigorous exercise, which is not the case for Type I. The symptoms include a lack of interest or inability to turn the head.
