Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds are at their peak between 2 and 6 years old. They're at their strongest in terms of physical fitness and mental sharpness.
Their size puts them at a greater risk of developing cancer muscular and skeletal issues, as well as other health issues that could have a negative impact on their lives.
Working line German Shepherds often have more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet rich in nutrients to support their high activity levels and workout demands.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds may suffer from several health conditions including elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They also are susceptible to Cushing's Disease, degenerative myelopathy and hip dysplasia. Understanding these conditions and taking the correct steps to treat or prevent them can help your dog live longer. Regular veterinary visits, good nutrition, and daily exercise are the key to a healthy and happy large breed.
Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) occurs when a pet's body produces too much cortisol, a natural steroid. A tumor in the pituitary or adrenal glands is the most frequent cause of the condition. In between reinrassiger schäferhund and 85percent of cases, the tumor is on the pituitary gland which is a pea-sized, sized organ located at the brain's base. Around 15 percent of the instances the tumor is located on the adrenal glands which are located above the kidneys.
If a pet is suffering from Cushing's disease, it becomes more active and eats more frequently than normal. Cushing's may also cause increased thirst and urination. This means that the pet needs to drink more water, and also go outside for potty breaks more often. Hair loss, a bloated appearance, and a lack of energy are other symptoms of the illness.
A veterinarian can diagnose the condition by drawing blood and conducting an adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test. This test involves injecting the patient with ACTH and analyzing 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, he needs medication for the rest his life. The medication will manage his symptoms and slow the growth of the tumor. Most dogs with this condition can lead normal lives if they are properly treated and monitored. The condition can be fatal, however, in the event that it isn't treated or diagnosed early.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds that are diagnosed and treated for epilepsy may remain healthy and enjoy a full and happy life. Uncontrolled seizures can cause a dog to suffer from oxygen deprivation or a traumatic injury. Untreated epilepsy can also cause depression, or the inability to eat and drink.
The impact of epilepsy on German Shepherds could be influenced by the way the condition is handled by the owner. Owners who are able to be vigilant about their dog's medication and devise seizure management techniques and build a strong network of support, will be more likely to extend the pet's life.
Like most breeds of dogs German Shepherds are also prone to suffering from dental problems. Left untreated, this problem can cause serious damage to teeth and gums, and could cause infection in other areas of the body, like the liver, kidneys, and the heart. Regular dental visits for dogs can lower the risk of this problem.
Shepherds are at a much higher risk of bloat than other breeds thanks to their deep, narrow chests. This dangerous stomach disorder occurs when the intestines twitch inwards, releasing gas and cutting off blood flow to the stomach or the spleen. If not treated immediately, this condition can be fatal in less than half an hour. If your Shepherd shows signs of bloat, like crying or heaving, with no food coming up or an overly large stomach, or lying in a prayer position (front feet down, rear end up) Take them to an emergency vet right away.
German Shepherds with bloat are at greater chance of developing hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy than other breeds. It is essential to be on top of your dog's veterinarian treatment and preventative measures.
Elbow Dysplasia
The elbow is an articulation between the humerus (the long bone in the upper forelimb), and the radius and ulna, (the two bones of the lower forelimb). The three bones need to fit perfectly to allow to allow for continuous movement. If they don't match perfectly, elbow dysplasia occurs. It's the most frequent cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs.
In some instances of the disease the cartilage between bones begins to degrade, causing pain, swelling, and lameness. The damage is irreparable, so early diagnosis and treatment is crucial.
The earliest signs of the disease in dogs are a mild or intermittent limp, particularly after exercise or when getting up from a seated position. As the disease progresses, the dog's elbow range of motion decreases. There could also be fluid in 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 can be found on one or both elbows.
Rigorous hip and elbow screening of breeding animals is the best bet to prevent these problems. These conditions can still develop despite screenings. Breeding only dogs whose elbows have been proven to be healthy is the most effective method. This will ensure that the genes responsible for elbow dysplasia don't pass 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. DM symptoms typically manifest in older dogs and progress to paralysis. The condition is considered the canine equivalent of amyotrophic lateral degeneration (Lou Gehrig's disease). It is unclear what causes dogs with this condition develop it, while others do not despite having a genetic predisposition.
Unfortunately there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be treated by medication, but the condition is progressive and eventually leads to paralysis of the forelimbs, too. Some dogs last for a number of months or years with a high quality of life. However, it's typical for owners to choose euthanasia when their dog is unable to walk or stand on its own.
Your doctor will conduct a neurological exam and take an extensive medical history to diagnose DM. The neurologist will look for other diseases that show similar clinical signs and will request blood samples to test for the genetic mutation associated with this disease. A cerebrospinal fluid sample may also be taken to allow for analysis and the exclusion of other diseases. The neurologist will likely recommend MRI imaging using our advanced diagnostic imaging services. This will enable your vet to identify the areas of the spinal cord that are affected by DM and monitor progression of the disease over time. In addition physical rehabilitation therapy is often beneficial for DM patients and can help to slow the progression of the disease.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are prone to health issues that may reduce their life expectancy. Knowing these conditions and how they impact your dog will assist you in taking preventative measures to ensure their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the "doughnut" of the spinal disc doesn't remain in its proper position. Each disk has a strong fibrous outer ring, known as an annulus fibrousus, and a non-compressive nucleus pulposus inside which absorbs impact. If the nucleus becomes herniated, it can cause severe pain and a paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative disease However, sudden traumas can cause herniation.
Type I of IVDD is connected with the sudden rupture of the disc's nucleus into the spinal canal. This results in severe back pain, arching of the back and weakness in the limbs of the rear, and hind-limb lameness. It may also be accompanied with weakness, incontinence, and incoordination. If the spinal chord is compressed and dies, then your dog will be totally paralyzed. They may not even be able to use their rear legs.
Type II IVDD usually occurs in dogs that are older. It's caused by normal "wear and tear" which results in the weak annulus fibers swelling with fluid, leading to herniation, then compression of the spinal cord. This form of IVDD isn't caused either by trauma or vigorous exercise, unlike Type I. Signs include a reluctance or inability to turn the head.