Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds reach their peak between the ages of 2 and 6. The German Shepherd is at its peak in regards to physical and mental sharpness.
They are at greater risk of developing cancer, musculoskeletal problems, and other health issues that can affect their lifespan.
Working line German Shepherds typically have a more active lifestyle than their show line counterparts. They need a diet rich in nutrients to support their high levels of activity and exercise.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds are susceptible to several health conditions including elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They also are susceptible to Cushing's Disease, degenerative myelopathy and hip dysplasia. Understanding these issues and taking the correct steps to prevent or manage them will allow your dog to live longer. Regular visits to the vet, 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 in the adrenal glands, or pituitary glands, is the most frequent cause of the disease. In between 80% and 85% of cases, the tumor is on the pituitary gland, which is a pea-sized body located near the base of the brain. In approximately 15% of cases the tumor is located on one of the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys.
Cushing's disease causes pets to be more active and consume more food than usual. Cushing's can also trigger increased thirst and urine production. This means that the pet has to drink more fluids, and also go outside for toilet breaks more often. Hair loss, a bloated appearance, and lethargy are other symptoms of the disease.
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 analyzing the adrenal response. The results reveal how high or low the level of cortisol in the patient is.
Once a dog has been diagnosed with Cushing's, they will need medication for the remainder of his life. This medication will stop the growth of the tumor and keep his symptoms under control. The majority of dogs suffering from this condition are able to live normal lives when they are properly medicated and monitored. The condition can be fatal, however, in the event that it isn't treated or diagnosed early enough.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds who are correctly diagnosed and treated for epilepsy could remain healthy and enjoy a happy life. However, a dog who suffers from uncontrolled seizures may die from oxygen deficiency or injury during seizures. Untreated epilepsy can also cause depression, or the inability to eat or drink.
The effects of epilepsy on German Shepherds could be influenced by the way the condition is handled by the owner. An owner who can closely check the dog's medication, devise appropriate strategies to manage seizures and establish a solid support system is more likely to extend their pet's life span.
Like other breeds of dogs German Shepherds are also susceptible to suffering from dental problems. Untreated, this condition can cause severe damage to gums and teeth, and even cause infections in other organs, such as the kidneys, the liver, and the heart. Dogs that receive regular professional dental care are less prone to this problem.
Shepherds are at a much higher risk of bloat than many other breeds, due to their chests that are narrow and deep. This ailment can be fatal to the stomach when the intestines twitch inwards, releasing gas and cutting off blood flow to the stomach or spleen. If not treated promptly the condition could be fatal in just half an hour. If your Shepherd is showing 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 take them to an emergency vet as soon as you notice.
German Shepherds who experience bloat are at a greater chance 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 that connects the humerus (the long bone of the upper forelimb) along with the radius and ulna (the two bones that comprise the lower forelimb). The three bones must be able to fit together perfectly to withstand a lifetime of movement. If they don't fit together perfectly, elbow dysplasia occurs. It's the most common cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs.
In certain instances the cartilage between the bones can erode, causing pain, swelling and lameness. The damage is not irreparable therefore early diagnosis and treatment are important.
The first signs of the disease in dogs include the appearance of a slight limp or intermittent one, particularly during exercise or when getting up from a sitting position. As the disease progresses, a dog's range-of-motion in the elbow decreases and there could be fluid inside the joint.
There are three types of elbow dysplasia. They are the Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP), Osteochondrosis on the Humeral Condyle (OCH), and Ununited Aconeal Process (UAP). Each of these conditions has its own distinct appearance on xrays and could be found in one or both elbows.
Presently, the best method to prevent this problem is to test breeding animals for elbow and hip problems. These conditions can still develop despite screenings. Breeding only dogs with elbows that have been confirmed to be healthy is the most effective method. This will ensure that the genes responsible for elbow dysplasia don't pass to offspring.
deutscher schäferhund pflege is an autoimmune disorder that affects German Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness of the hind legs, is a form of Degenerative Myelopathy. The signs of DM generally manifest in older dogs and may become paralyzed. The condition is believed to be a canine form of Lou Gehrig's Disease (amyotrophic lateral-sclerosis). Despite being genetically predisposed this condition, it's unknown why some affected dogs develop the disease whereas others do not.
Unfortunately there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be controlled by medication, but the condition can progress and causes paralysis of the forelimbs. Some dogs last for a number of months or even years with good quality of life. However, it is common that owners choose to kill their pet if they are in a position to walk or stand on its own.
Your doctor will conduct an examination for neurological disorders and will create a detailed medical record to diagnose DM. The neurologist checks for other diseases that have similar clinical signs, and asks for blood samples to determine the genetic mutations that cause with this condition. A cerebrospinal fluid sample will also be collected to enable analysis and the exclusion of other diseases. The neurologists will likely suggest MRI imaging using our advanced diagnostic imaging services. This will enable your vet to determine areas of the spine that are affected by DM and monitor the progression of the disease. In addition, physical rehabilitation therapy is often beneficial for DM patients and can aid in slowing the progression of the disease.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are at risk of certain health issues that may impact their life expectancy. Understanding these conditions and how they affect your dog will aid you in taking preventative measures that support their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) occurs when the outer or inner of the spinal disk "donut" doesn't stay where it belongs. Each disk has a tough fibrous outer ring called an annulus fibrosus, and an inner nucleus pulposus that is not compressible that absorbs impact. When the nucleus is herniated it can cause severe pain and paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative disease however, sudden trauma can cause herniation.
Type I of IVDD is associated with the sudden insertion of the disc's nucleus material into the spinal canal and results in severe back pain, arching of the back and lower back, weakness in the limbs of the rear, and hind-limb lameness. This condition can also cause weakness, incontinence and incoordination. If the spinal cord becomes compressed and dies the dog will be completely paralyzed, often not able to use their rear legs even.
Type II IVDD is typically seen in dogs that are older. Normal wear and tear causes annulus fibers to swell with fluid. This leads to herniation and compression of the spine. This form of IVDD isn't caused either by trauma or vigorous exercise, unlike Type I. deutscher schäferhund pflege include a reluctance or inability to turn the head.