Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy

German Shepherds are in their prime between the ages of 2 and 6 years old. The German Shepherd is at its peak in terms of mental and physical agility.

They are more at risk for diseases of the musculoskeletal system, cancer, and other health conditions that can affect their lifespan.

Working line German Shepherds typically lead more active lifestyles than show line counterparts. They require a nutrient-rich diet to support their active lifestyle and demands for exercise.

Cushing's Disease

German Shepherds are susceptible to various health issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and Cushing's disease. Knowing these conditions and taking proper steps to prevent or treat them will allow your dog to live a longer life. Regular veterinary visits, proper nutrition and daily exercise will keep this large breed in good health.

Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) occurs when a pet's body produces too much cortisol, a natural steroid. A tumor of the pituitary or adrenal glands is the most frequent reason for the condition. In approximately 80% to 90% of cases, the tumor is in the pituitary gland which is a pea-sized body located near the brain's base. In approximately 15 percent of cases the tumor is located 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 eat more than normal. The condition also causes increased thirst and urination, which means the pet needs to drink more water and frequent the outside for bathroom breaks. Hair loss, a pot-bellied appearance, and a lack of energy are other signs of the illness.

A doctor can diagnose this condition 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 the degree to which his cortisol levels are.

When a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's Disease, it will require medication to rest his life. The medication will help control his symptoms and slow down the growth of the tumor. If they are properly monitored and treated, most dogs with this condition will be able to live normal lives. The condition can be fatal, however, when it isn't treated and diagnosed early.

Epilepsy

German Shepherds with epilepsy that is properly treated and diagnosed can live an extended and healthy life. However, a dog who has seizures that are uncontrolled could die from oxygen deficiency or a traumatic injury that occurs during seizures. Epilepsy that is not treated properly can result in depression or a lack of appetite or drink, which could quickly turn fatal.

The way the owner manages the condition can influence the effects of epilepsy in German Shepherds. The owners who are able to closely monitor their dog's medication, and develop seizure management techniques and also create a strong network of support are more likely to prolong their pet's life.

As with all breeds of dog German Shepherds are also prone to suffering from dental diseases. If left untreated, this condition could cause severe damage to gums and teeth, and even cause infections in other organs, like kidneys, the liver, and the heart. Dogs that receive regular professional dental care are less susceptible to this issue.

Shepherds are at a much more bloat-prone risk than many other breeds, thanks to their deep, narrow chests. This ailment can be fatal to the stomach when the intestines are twisted inwards, releasing gas and cutting off blood flow to the stomach or spleen. If not treated immediately the condition could be fatal in less than half an hour. If your Shepherd is showing symptoms of bloat like Heaving, retching, or an overly large stomach or is in a prayer position (front feet are down, the rear is up) It is recommended to bring them to an emergency vet right away.

German Shepherds with Bloat are at a higher chance of developing hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy than other breeds. It is crucial to be 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), as well as the radius and ulna, (the two bones of the lower forelimb). The three bones must fit perfectly to allow for a lifetime of motion. If they don't match perfectly, elbow dysplasia can occur. It's the most frequent reason dogs become lame in their front legs.

In some instances of the disease the cartilage between the bones begins to degrade, causing pain, swelling and lameness. This damage is not reversible and early diagnosis and treatment are important.

The first indications of the disease in a dog are a slight or intermittent limp, particularly after exercise or after getting up from a seated position. As the disease progresses, a dog's range of motion at the elbow decreases and there could be fluid inside the joint.

There are deutscher schäferhund lebenserwartung Links to an external site. of elbow dysplasia. These include the Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP), Osteochondrosis on the Humeral Condyle (OCH), and Ununited Aconeal Process (UAP). Each of these conditions can be observed on one or both elbows.

A thorough screening of the elbow and hip of breeding animals is currently the best option to avoid these problems. However, even with screenings, these conditions can still happen. Breeding only with dogs whose elbows have been proven healthy is the most effective strategy. This will ensure that the genes responsible for elbow dysplasia don't pass onto offspring.

Degenerative Myelopathy


Degenerative Myelopathy is a neurological disorder that affects German Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness of the hind legs, is a form of Degenerative Myelopathy. DM symptoms usually manifest in older dogs, and can progress to paralysis. The condition is considered the canine equivalent to amyotrophic lateral syndrome (Lou Gehrig's disease). Despite being genetically predisposed this disease, it is not known why some dogs develop the disease whereas others do not.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be controlled with medication, however the condition is progressive and can cause paralysis in the forelimbs. Some dogs are able to live for months or years with a good quality of life, however it is not uncommon for owners to elect euthanasia once the dog becomes in a position where they are unable to walk or stand on their own.

To determine if you have DM to diagnose it, your doctor will take a detailed medical history and perform an examination of the neurological system. The neurologist checks for other diseases with similar symptoms and asks for blood samples to determine the genetic mutations that cause with the disease. A cerebrospinal fluid sample may also be collected to enable analysis and exclude other diseases. The neurologist may recommend MRI imaging with our advanced diagnostic imaging service. This will enable your vet to identify the regions of the spinal cord affected by DM and track the progression of the disease over time. Physical rehabilitation therapy can also be beneficial for DM sufferers and can slow the progression of the condition.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

German Shepherds are prone to health problems that can reduce their life expectancy. Understanding these conditions and how they affect your dog can help you take 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 is surrounded by an outer fibrous ring that is known as an annulus, and a soft nucleus that absorbs impact. When herniated, the softer nucleus could hit the spinal cord with great force and cause extreme pain, weakness, or even paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative condition However, sudden traumas can trigger herniation.

Type I IVDD is characterised by a sudden rupture into the spinal canal of the nucleus of the disc. This can cause severe pain in the back arching back, a weakness of the rear limbs, and lameness in the hind limbs. It can also be accompanied by incontinence, weakness, or incoordination. If the spinal chord is compressed and dies, your dog will be totally paralyzed. They might not even be able to walk on their rear legs.

Type II IVDD typically 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 by trauma or intense exercise, as is the case with Type I. It is characterized by a refusal to turn the head, an arched back, and a walk that seems weak or wobbly on the rear leg.