Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy

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

Their size puts them at a greater risk of developing cancer musculoskeletal issues, and other health issues that could have a negative impact on their lives.

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

Cushing's Disease

German Shepherds are susceptible to a variety of health issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and Cushing's disease. Knowing these conditions and taking the right steps to prevent or treat them can help your dog live longer. Regular visits to the vet, good diet and regular 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. The condition is usually caused by a tumor that has formed on the pituitary gland or on one of the adrenal glands. In 80 to 85percent of cases, the tumor develops on the pituitary gland, a small organ that is located close to the base of the brain. Around 15 percent of the cases the tumor is located on the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys.

When a pet has Cushing's, it becomes active and eats more than normal. The condition also causes increased thirst and urination, so the pet will need to drink more fluids and be outside more often for potty breaks. Other symptoms of the condition include loss of hair, a bloated appearance, and a lack of energy.

A vet can diagnose this disorder by drawing blood and then executing the adrenocorticotropic stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and then measuring the adrenal response. The results reveal how high or low the level of cortisol in the patient is.

Once a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's disease it will require medication to duration of his life. The medication will slow down the growth of the tumor and keep the symptoms under control. Most dogs suffering from this disease are able to live normal lives when they are properly treated and entzückendescäferhundwelpen.de monitored. However, the condition may be fatal if it is not diagnosed and treated early.

Epilepsy

German Shepherds suffering from epilepsy who is properly treated and diagnosed can live an extended and healthy life. Uncontrolled seizures can cause dogs to suffer from oxygen deprivation, or even a serious injury. Epilepsy that is not treated properly can cause depression, or the inability to eat and drink.

The impact of epilepsy on German Shepherds can be affected by the way in which the condition is handled by the owner. Owners who are able to closely monitor their dog's medication, and develop strategies to manage seizures and create an effective network of support are more likely to prolong the pet's lifespan.

Like other dog breeds German Shepherds, too, suffer from dental diseases. Left untreated, this problem can cause serious damage to teeth and gums, and could cause infections in other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, liver and the heart. Dogs who receive regular professional dental care are less susceptible to this condition.

Shepherds are at a more bloat-prone risk than other breeds due to their deep, narrow chests. This dangerous stomach disorder occurs when the intestines twist and expand with gas, causing a cutoff in blood flow to the stomach and spleen. This condition could cause death in less than 30 minutes if not addressed promptly. If your Shepherd exhibits signs of bloat, like crying or heaving, without food coming up or an overly large stomach, or lying in a prayer position (front feet down and back end up) then take your pet to the emergency vet immediately.

German Shepherds that experience bloat are at a higher risk of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. It is important to keep up with your dog's veterinarian treatment and preventative measures.

Elbow Dysplasia

The elbow is a hinge between the humerus (the long bone in the upper forelimb) and the ulna and radius, (the two bones of the lower forelimb). The three bones must be perfectly aligned for a lifetime of motion. If they don't, a condition referred to as elbow dysplasia is created. It's the leading cause of lameness in front legs (limping) in dogs.

In some instances the cartilage between the bones may be damaged, causing pain, swelling and lameness. The damage is irreparable and it is therefore crucial to recognize and treat the condition as early as possible.

The earliest signs of the disease in a dog are a mild or intermittent limp, especially after exercise or after getting up from a sitting position. As the disease progresses, the dog's range-of-motion in the elbow decreases. There could be fluid inside 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 has a unique appearance on xrays and could be seen in both elbows or one of them.

Screening for elbows and hips of breeding animals is the best option to avoid these issues. The disease can still be present even after screening. The most effective method is to only breed dogs that come from parents who are found to have good elbows. This will stop the genetics for elbow dysplasia from passing to offspring.

Degenerative Myelopathy

Degenerative Myelopathy is an illness of the nervous system that gradually affects the spinal cord of German Shepherd dogs and causes weakness in the hind legs. DM symptoms usually manifest in older dogs and progress to paralysis. It is thought to be the canine equivalent of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease). It is unclear why some dogs with this condition develop it, while others don't, despite being genetically predisposed.

Unfortunately there is no cure for DM. Symptoms may be managed with medication, but the condition is progressive and eventually causes paralysis of the forelimbs too. Certain dogs can last for a number of months or even years with good quality of life. However, it is common for owners to opt for euthanasia when their dog is incapable of standing or walking on its 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 will search for other diseases with similar clinical signs and will take blood samples to check for the genetic mutation associated with this condition. A sample of cerebrospinal fluid will also be obtained to allow for analysis and to exclude other diseases. The neurologist will likely recommend MRI imaging using our sophisticated diagnostic imaging services. This will enable your vet to pinpoint the areas of the spinal cord that are affected by DM and monitor the progress of the disease over time. In addition physical rehabilitation therapy can be beneficial for DM patients and can help to slow the progression of the disease.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

German Shepherds are at risk of certain health issues that can impact their life expectancy. Understanding these conditions and how they impact your dog will aid you in taking preventative steps that will prolong their lives.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) occurs when the inside or outside of the spinal disk "donut" isn't remain where it is. Each disk is surrounded by an outer fibrous ring that is known as an annulus. It also has a soft nucleus that absorbs impacts. When the nucleus gets herniated it can cause severe pain and even paralysis. IVDD is usually a degenerative process, although an accident that is sudden can cause herniation in dogs with weak disks.

Type I IVDD is characterized by sudden herniation into the spinal canal of disc's nucleus. This can cause intense pain in the back, arching back, weakness of the rear limbs, and lameness in the hind limbs. This condition can also lead to weakness, incontinence and incoordination. If the spinal cord becomes compressed and dies then your dog will be completely disabled. They may not even be able to move their rear legs.

The development of type II IVDD is more gradual and generally occurs in older dogs. Normal wear and tear causes the annulus fibers to grow larger with fluid. This leads to compression and herniation of spine. In contrast to Type I IVDD, this type isn't triggered by trauma or exercise. Signs include a reluctance or inability to turn the head.