Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds peak between the ages 2 and 6. The German Shepherd is at its best in regards to physical and mental agility.
They are at greater risk of developing diseases of the musculoskeletal system, cancer, and other health issues that could affect their lives.
Working line German Shepherds usually lead more active lifestyles than show line counterparts. They require a nutrient-rich diet to help them meet their high activity levels and workout demands.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds can suffer from several health conditions including elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and. They also are susceptible to Cushing's Disease, degenerative myelopathy and hip dysplasia. Knowing these conditions and taking correct 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. was kostet ein reinrassiger schäferhund of the adrenal glands, or pituitary glands, is the most frequent cause of the condition. In 80 to 85percent of cases, the tumor develops on the pituitary gland, a small organ located near the base of brain. Around 15 percent of the cases, the tumor is located on the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys.
If a pet suffers from Cushing's, it becomes active and eats more than usual. The condition can also cause more thirst and increased the need to urinate. This means that the pet needs to drink more fluids, and go outside for potty breaks more often. Other signs of the condition include loss of hair, a potbellied appearance, and lethargy.
A doctor can diagnose this condition by drawing blood and performing the adrenocorticotropic hormonal stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and measuring their adrenal response. The results will show how high or low the level of cortisol in the patient is.
Once a dog has been diagnosed with Cushing's, he will need medication for the duration of his life. This medication will slow the growth of the tumor and keep the symptoms under control. If they are properly monitored and treated, the majority of dogs with this condition can be able to live normal lives. The condition can be fatal, however, in the event that it isn't treated or diagnosed in the early stages.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds suffering from epilepsy who is properly diagnosed and treated can live a long and healthy life. However, a dog that suffers from uncontrolled seizures may die due to oxygen starvation or injury during a seizure. Untreated epilepsy can also cause depression, or the inability to eat or drink.
How the owner manages the situation can affect the impact of epilepsy in German Shepherds. An owner who can closely keep track of the dog's medication, create appropriate strategies for managing seizures and establish a strong support network is more likely to extend the life span of their pet.
Like all breeds of dogs German Shepherds are also prone to suffering from dental diseases. Untreated, this condition can cause severe dental and gum damage and can cause infections in other organs, like kidneys, the liver, and the heart. Regular dental hygiene for dogs can decrease the risk of this issue.
Shepherds are at a higher risk of bloat than many other breeds, thanks to their narrow, deep chests. This ailment can be fatal to the stomach when the intestines are twisted inwards, releasing gas and cutting off the blood flow to the stomach or the spleen. This condition can cause death in less than 30 minutes if not treated promptly. If your Shepherd is showing signs of bloat, such as the retching, heaving, an overly large stomach or is in a praying position (front feet are down, rear end is up) It is recommended to bring them to an emergency vet immediately.
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 medical treatment and preventative measures.
Elbow Dysplasia
The elbow is an articulation 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 have to fit perfectly to endure a lifetime of movement. If they don't match perfectly, elbow dysplasia occurs. It is the most common reason for dogs to be weak in their front legs.
In some cases the cartilage between the bones may deteriorate which can cause pain, swelling and lameness. The damage is not reverseable and it is therefore crucial to diagnose and treat the condition early.
The earliest signs of the disease in dogs are a mild or intermittent limp, mainly after exercise or after getting up from a resting position. As the disease progresses the dog's elbow's range of motion decreases. There may also be fluid in the joint.
There are three main kinds of elbow dysplasia: Fragmented Coronoid Process, Osteochondrosis of the Humeral Condyle, and Ununited Anconeal Process. Each of these conditions can be observed on both elbows or one of them.
Currently, the best way to prevent this problem is to screen breeding animals for hip and elbow problems. These diseases can still occur despite screening. The most effective approach is to only breed dogs from parents that have been shown to have good elbows. This will ensure that the genes responsible for elbow dysplasia are not passed onto offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy, a neurological disorder that affects German Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness in the hind legs, is a type of Degenerative Myelopathy. DM symptoms usually appear in older dogs and eventually lead to paralysis. The condition is considered the canine equivalent of amyotrophic lateral degeneration (Lou Gehrig's disease). It is not known what causes dogs with this disease develop it and others do not despite being genetically predisposed.
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for DM. The symptoms can be treated through medication, however the condition is progressive and can cause paralysis in the forelimbs. Certain dogs can endure for months or even years with a good quality of life. However, it is common for owners to opt for to kill their pet if they are unable to walk or stand on its own.
Your vet will perform a neurological exam and take an accurate medical record to determine DM. The neurologist will check 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 will also be taken to allow for analysis and exclude other diseases. The neurologists may suggest MRI imaging using our advanced diagnostic imaging service. This will allow your vet to determine areas of the spine that are affected with DM and monitor the progress of the disease. Additionally physical rehabilitation therapy is frequently beneficial for DM patients and can help to slow the progression of the disease.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are prone to health problems that can impact their lifespan. Knowing these conditions and how they impact your dog will help you take preventative action that will prolong their lives.
Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the "doughnut" of the spinal disc fails to remain in its correct position. Each disk is surrounded by an outer fibrous ring that is known as an annulus and a soft nucleus that absorbs impacts. When herniated, the softer nucleus can hit the spinal cord with a great force and cause extreme pain, weakness, or even paralysis. IVDD is usually a degenerative process, although an accident that is sudden can cause herniation in dogs with weak disks.
Type I of IVDD is connected with the sudden rupture of the disc's nucleus material into the spinal canal. It causes intense pain, back pain, arching of the back and lower back, weakness in the rear limbs, and hind-limb lameness. This condition can also lead to weakening, incontinence, and incoordination. If the spinal cord becomes compressed and dies, then your dog will be totally paralyzed. They may not even be able to move their rear legs.
The development of IVDD type II is more gradual and typically occurs in older dogs. Normal wear and tear causes the annulus fibers to expand with fluid. This leads to compression and herniation of spine. Contrary to Type I IVDD, this form isn't caused by trauma or exercise. Signs include reluctance to turn the head or back, an arched back and an appearance of weak or wobbly on the rear legs.