Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy

German Shepherds are in their peak between 2 and 6 years old. The German Shepherd is at its best in regards to physical and mental sharpness.

Their large size makes them at a higher chance of developing cancer, muscular and skeletal issues, as well as other health conditions that can have a negative impact on their lives.

German Shepherds of the working line typically lead more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet that is rich in nutrients to help them maintain their active lifestyles and exercise.


Cushing's Disease

German Shepherds may suffer from numerous health issues like elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and. They also are susceptible 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 live longer. Regular visits to the vet, proper nutrition, and regular exercise can keep this large breed in good health.

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 on one of the adrenal glands. In approximately 80% to 90% of cases, the tumor is in the pituitary gland which is a pea-sized body located near the base of the brain. About 15% of the cases, the tumor is located on the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys.

Cushing's disease causes pets to be more active and consume more food than usual. The condition can also cause increased thirst and urination. As a result, the pet has to drink more water and frequent the outside for potty breaks. Loss of hair, a potbelly appearance, and lethargy are also signs of the disease.

A veterinarian can diagnose the condition by drawing blood and performing an adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test. This test involves injecting the patient with ACTH and analyzing the adrenal response. The results show the degree to which his cortisol levels are.

If a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's disease, he will require medication for the rest of his life. The medication will manage his symptoms and slow the growth of the cancer. If they are monitored properly and treated, most dogs suffering from this condition will live normal lives. The condition can be fatal, however, in the event that it isn't treated or identified early enough.

Epilepsy

German Shepherds suffering from epilepsy who is treated and diagnosed correctly can live a long and healthy life. Uncontrolled seizures can cause dogs to die due to oxygen deprivation or a traumatic injury. Untreated epilepsy may also lead to depression, or the inability to eat and drink.

The impact of epilepsy in German Shepherds can be influenced by how the condition is managed by the owner. The owners who are able to closely monitor their dog's medication and develop strategies to manage seizures and also build an extensive network of support, are more likely to extend the 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 the gums and teeth and may lead to infections in other organs like the kidneys, the liver, and the heart. Regular dental visits for dogs can decrease the chance of developing this condition.

The deep chests of the Shepherd breed make them more prone to bloat. This stomach condition is dangerous and can occur when the intestines twitch and fill with gas, severing blood flow to the stomach and spleen. The condition can be fatal in as little as 30 minutes if not addressed promptly. If your Shepherd shows signs of bloat, such as Heaving, retching, or an enlarged stomach, or is in a praying position (front feet are down, the rear is up) It is recommended to go to an emergency vet right away.

German Shepherds that experience the condition of bloat are more at chance of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. It is essential to keep up with your dog's medical care and preventative measures.

Elbow Dysplasia

The elbow is an integral part of the humerus (the long bone of the upper forelimb), and the ulna and radius, (the two bones of the lower forelimb). The three bones have to fit perfectly to endure a lifetime of movement. If they don't connect perfectly, elbow dysplasia occurs. It is the most common reason why dogs are lame in their front legs.

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

The first signs of this condition in dogs are a mild limp or a sporadic one, particularly during exercise or when getting up from a seated position. As the disease progresses, the dog's range-of-motion in the elbow decreases. There could be fluid in the joint.

There are three types 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 has a unique appearance on x-rays and may be found in one or both elbows.

Screening for elbows and hips of breeding animals is currently the best option to avoid these problems. However, despite screenings, these diseases can still be present. The most effective method is to breed only with dogs whose parents have been proven to have healthy elbows. This will ensure that the genes responsible for elbow dysplasia are not passed to 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 generally manifest in older dogs and may develop into paralysis. The condition is believed to be the canine version of Lou Gehrig's Disease (amyotrophic lateral-sclerosis). Despite being schäferhund baby kaufen predisposed this condition, it's not known why some dogs develop the disease and others don't.

Unfortunately there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be controlled through medication, however the condition is progressive and causes paralysis of the forelimbs. Certain dogs can last for a number of months or even years with a high quality of life. However, it's common for owners to opt for euthanasia when their dog is in a position to walk or stand on its own.

To determine if you have DM, your vet will conduct a thorough medical history and perform an examination of the brain. The neurologist will search for other conditions that have similar clinical signs and take blood samples to check for the genetic mutation that is associated with this condition. A cerebrospinal fluid sample may also be obtained to allow for analysis and to exclude other diseases. The neurologists may suggest MRI imaging through our advanced diagnostic imaging service. This will allow your vet to pinpoint areas of the spine that are affected with DM and monitor 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 susceptible to health issues that could reduce their life expectancy. Knowing these conditions and the ways they impact your dog will assist you in taking preventative measures that supports their longevity.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is when the outside or inside of the spinal disk "donut" does not stay where it is. Each disk has an outer fibrous ring that is known as an annulus, and a soft nucleus which absorbs impacts. When the nucleus gets herniated it can cause severe pain and even paralysis. IVDD is usually a degenerative condition, however the sudden trauma can cause herniation in dogs with weak disks.

Type I of IVDD is ascribed with the sudden insertion of the disc's nucleus into the spinal canal and results in severe back pain, arching of the back and lower back, weakness in the rear limbs, and hind-limb lameness. This condition can also result in weakening, incontinence, and incoordination. If the spinal cord becomes compressed and dies the dog will be completely paralyzed, and may be unable to use their rear legs in any way.

Type II IVDD typically occurs in dogs that are older. It's the result of normal "wear and tear" which results in the weak annulus fibers swelling with fluid, leading to herniation, then compression of the spinal cord. In contrast to Type I IVDD, this form isn't caused by heavy exercise or trauma. Signs include a reluctance or inability to turn the head.