Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy

German Shepherds are in their prime between the ages of 2 and 6. They're at their peak in terms of physical fitness and mental sharpness.

Their large size puts them at a greater risk of developing cancer, muscle and joint issues, and other health conditions that can impact lifespan.

German Shepherds from the working line often live more active lives than their show line counterparts. They need a diet rich in nutrients to sustain their high levels of activity and exercise.

Cushing's Disease

German Shepherds are prone to a variety of health issues such as hip dysplasia elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy and Cushing's disease. Understanding these issues and taking the correct steps to prevent or treat them can help your dog live longer. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper 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 usually caused by a tumor on the pituitary gland or one of the adrenal glands. In 80 to 85percent of cases, the tumor is located on the pituitary, which is a tiny organ located near the base of brain. About 15% of the cases the tumor is situated on the adrenal glands that are located above the kidneys.

When a pet has Cushing's, it becomes active and eats more than normal. The condition can also cause increased thirst and urination, which means the pet needs to drink more water and go outside more often to take a break from the toilet. Other symptoms of the condition include loss of hair, a bloated appearance and lethargy.

A veterinarian can diagnose this disorder by drawing blood, and performing the adrenocorticotropic hormonal stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and analyzing the adrenal response. The results will show the level of high or low cortisol levels are.

If a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's, he will require medication for the remainder of his life. The medication will slow down the growth of the tumor and keep his symptoms under control. Most dogs suffering from this disease can lead normal lives if they are properly medicated and monitored. The condition can be fatal, however, in the event that it isn't treated or identified in the early stages.

Epilepsy

German Shepherds with epilepsy that is treated and diagnosed correctly can live an extended and healthy life. However, a dog who suffers from seizures that are not controlled may be killed due to oxygen deficiency or injury during the course of a seizure. Epilepsy that is not treated properly can lead to depression, or the inability to eat or drink.

How a pet's owner manages the condition could affect the effects of epilepsy on German Shepherds. Owners who can closely monitor their dog's medication, and develop seizure management techniques and create an extensive network of support, are more likely to prolong their pet's lifespan.

Like other dog breeds German Shepherds, too, suffer from dental problems. If not treated, this condition can cause severe damage to the gums and teeth and even cause infections in other parts of the body, like the liver, kidneys and the heart. Regular dental visits for dogs can decrease the risk of this problem.

Shepherds are at a much higher risk of bloat than many other breeds, thanks to their chests that are narrow and deep. This dangerous stomach disorder occurs when the intestines twitch to fill with gas, cutting off blood flow to the stomach or the spleen. This 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 large stomach or is in a prayer position (front feet are down, rear end is up), you should go to an emergency vet as soon as you notice.

German Shepherds who experience bloat are at a greater risk of developing hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy than other breeds. It is crucial to stay on top of your dog's veterinarian treatment and preventative measures.

Elbow Dysplasia

The elbow is a hinge joint between the humerus (the long bone of the upper forelimb) as well as the radius and ulna (the two bones that comprise the lower forelimb). The three bones have to fit together perfectly for a lifetime of movement. If they don't match properly, elbow dysplasia develops. It's the most frequent cause of lameness in front legs (limping) in dogs.

In certain cases of the disease, the cartilage between the bones erodes and leads to pain, swelling and lameness. The damage is not reverseable, so it is important to recognize and treat the condition at an early stage.

The first signs of this condition in dogs are a mild limp or a sporadic one, particularly after exercise or when getting up from a sitting position. As the disease progresses, the dog's elbow range of motion decreases. There may 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 xrays and could be found in one or both elbows.

Screening for elbows and hips of breeding animals is currently the best way to prevent these problems. These diseases can still occur despite screenings. Breeding only with dogs whose elbows have been proven healthy is the most effective method. This will ensure that the genes for elbow dysplasia do not pass onto offspring.

Degenerative Myelopathy

Degenerative Myelopathy is an autoimmune disorder that affects German Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness of the hind legs, is a type of Degenerative Myelopathy. DM symptoms typically manifest in older dogs, and progress to paralysis. The condition is thought to be the canine version of Lou Gehrig's disease (amyotrophic lateral-sclerosis). It isn't known the reason why some dogs suffering from this disease get it, and others don't despite having a genetic predisposition.

Unfortunately there is no cure for DM. navigate to this website can be treated by medication, but the condition is progressive and eventually causes paralysis of the forelimbs as well. Some dogs will continue to endure for months or years with a good quality of life, but it is not uncommon for owners to choose euthanasia once the dog becomes incapable of standing or walking on their own.

Your veterinarian will conduct a neurological exam and take a detailed medical history to diagnose DM. The neurologist checks for other diseases with similar symptoms, and will request blood samples to examine the genetic mutations that cause this disease. A cerebrospinal fluid sample will also be taken to enable analysis and exclude other diseases. The neurologist will likely recommend MRI imaging using our advanced diagnostic imaging services. This will allow your vet to determine areas of the spine that are affected by DM and monitor the progress of the disease. Physical rehabilitation therapy can be beneficial for DM sufferers and help slow the progression of the condition.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

German Shepherds can be prone to health problems that can affect their life expectancy. Understanding these conditions and how they impact your dog will assist you in taking preventative measures that supports their longevity.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is when the outer or inner of the spinal disk "donut" does not stay where it is. Each disk has a tough fibrous outer ring, known as an annulus fibrousus, and an inner nucleus pulposus that is not compressible that absorbs impact. If it is ruptured, the softer nucleus can hit the spinal cord with tremendous force and cause severe pain, weakness, or even paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative disorder however, sudden trauma could cause herniation.

Type I of IVDD is ascribed with the sudden herniation of the disc's nucleus into the spinal canal and causes intense pain, back pain and back arching and lower back, weakness in the rear limbs and hind-limb lameness. It could be accompanied by incontinence, weakness, or 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.

The onset of type II IVDD is more gradual and usually occurs in older dogs. It's a result of normal "wear and tear" which results in the weak annulus fibers expanding with fluid, leading to herniation, and then compression of the spinal cord. This type of IVDD is not triggered either by trauma or heavy exercise, as is the case with Type I. Signs include reluctance to turn the head, an arched back, and a walk that appears weak or wobbly on the rear leg.