Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy

German Shepherds are at their peak between 2 and 6. The German Shepherd is at its best in terms of mental and physical agility.

Their large size makes them at a higher risk of developing cancer muscular and skeletal issues, as well as other health conditions that can affect their lifespan.

German Shepherds from the working line typically lead more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet that is rich in nutrients to sustain their active lifestyles and 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 the proper steps to prevent or manage them can allow your dog to live longer. Regular veterinary checks, proper diet, and regular exercise are the most important factors to good health for this 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 that has formed on the pituitary gland or on one of the adrenal glands. In 80% to 85% of cases, the tumor is located on the pituitary, which is a small organ located close to the base of the brain. In about 15 percent of cases, the tumor is on one of the adrenal glands, which are located on the top of the kidneys.

If a pet is suffering from Cushing's, it becomes more active and eats more frequently than normal. Cushing's also causes an increase in thirst and urination, which means the pet has to drink more water and go outside more often for potty breaks. Hair loss, a pot-bellied appearance, and lethargy are other symptoms of the illness.

A doctor can diagnose this condition by drawing blood and then performing the adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and measuring the adrenal response. The results indicate how high or low his cortisol levels are.

When a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's disease it is required to take medication for the remainder of his life. This medication will slow the growth of the tumor and keep the symptoms under control. Most dogs with this condition are able to live normal lives when they are properly treated and monitored. The condition can be fatal if it's not treated and diagnosed early.

Epilepsy

German Shepherds that are properly diagnosed and treated for epilepsy could live to a healthy age and live a long, happy life. Uncontrolled seizures can cause a dog to die due to oxygen deprivation or an injury. Untreated epilepsy may also lead to depression or a failure to eat or drink, which can quickly be fatal.

The effects of epilepsy on German Shepherds could be influenced by the way the condition is managed by the owner. An owner who can closely monitor the dog's medication, create appropriate strategies for managing seizures and build a strong support system is more likely to prolong their pet's lifespan.

Like all breeds of dogs German Shepherds are also prone to suffering from dental disease. If not treated, this condition may cause severe damage to gums and teeth and can cause infections in other organs, such as the kidneys, the liver and the heart. Regular dental visits for dogs can reduce the risk of this problem.

The chests that are deep in the Shepherd breed make them more prone to bloat. This stomach-related disorder can be deadly when the intestines twist and fill with gas, causing a cutoff in blood flow to the stomach and spleen. This condition could be fatal in less than 30 minutes if not treated immediately. If your Shepherd shows signs of bloat, such as retching, heaving, or an overly full stomach or is in a prayer position (front feet are down, and the rear end is up) It is recommended to go to an emergency vet as soon as you notice.

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 veterinary 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 movement. If they don't match properly, elbow dysplasia develops. It's the most common cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs.

In certain instances of the disease the cartilage between bones becomes damaged and causes swelling, pain and lameness. The damage is not irreparable and early diagnosis and treatment is crucial.

Early signs of the disease in dogs include a slight limp or intermittent one, especially after exercise or upon getting up from a sitting position. As the disease progresses, the dog's range of motion at the elbow decreases. There could be fluid inside 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.

A thorough screening of the elbow and hip of breeding animals is the best bet to prevent these problems. However, even with screenings, these diseases can still occur. Breeding only with dogs whose elbows have been confirmed to be healthy is the most effective strategy. This will stop the genes for elbow dysplasia being passed on to 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. The signs of DM usually manifest in older dogs and eventually 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 develop it and others don't, despite being genetically predisposed.

Unfortunately, there's no cure for DM. Suggested Studying can be treated with medication, but the condition is progressive and eventually leads to paralysis of the forelimbs too. Certain dogs can last for a number of months or 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.

Your veterinarian will conduct a neurological exam and take a detailed medical history to diagnose DM. The neurologist checks for other diseases that have similar symptoms and will request blood samples to determine the genetic mutations that cause with the disease. The neurologist will also collect a sample of cerebrospinal liquid to allow for analysis, and to rule out other diseases. The neurologist will likely recommend MRI imaging using our advanced diagnostic imaging services. This will allow your vet to determine the regions of the spinal cord that are affected by DM and track the progression of the disease over time. Physical rehabilitation therapy can also be beneficial for DM sufferers and help slow the progression of the condition.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

German Shepherds are prone to health issues that could reduce their life expectancy. Recognizing these conditions and understanding the ways they affect your dog can assist you in taking preventative measures to ensure their longevity.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is when the outer or inner of the spinal disk "donut" doesn't stay where it belongs. Each disk is surrounded by an outer fibrous ring called an annulus and a soft nucleus that absorbs impacts. When herniated, the softer nucleus may strike the spinal cord with a great force and cause severe pain, weakness, or even paralysis. IVDD is typically a degenerative process, although an accident that is sudden can cause herniation in dogs with weak disks.

Type I IVDD is characterised by a sudden herniation of the spinal canal of the nucleus of the disc. This causes intense pain in the back arching back, a weakness of the limbs in the rear and lameness in the hind limbs. This condition can also lead to weakening, incontinence, and incoordination. If the spinal cord becomes compressed and dies, your dog will become completely paralyzed, often not able to use their rear legs even.

The onset of IVDD type II is more gradual and generally occurs in older dogs. Normal wear and tear causes the annulus fibers to expand with fluid. This causes compression and herniation of spine. In contrast to Type I IVDD, this form isn't caused by trauma or exercise. The symptoms include a lack of interest or inability to turn the head.