Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds are in their prime between the ages of 2 and 6. They're at their peak in terms of physical fitness and mental sharpness.
Their large 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 usually lead more active lifestyles than show line counterparts. They require a diet high in nutrients to sustain their high levels of activity and exercise.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds are susceptible to several health conditions including hip dysplasia and elbow 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, 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 one of the adrenal glands. In 80 to 85% of cases, the tumor develops on the pituitary gland, a tiny organ located close to the brain's base. About 15 percent of the instances, the tumor is located on the adrenal glands which are located above the kidneys.
Cushing's disease causes pets to be more active and eat more than usual. Cushing's may also cause increased thirst and urination. This means that the pet needs to drink more water and take frequent breaks to urinate. Other symptoms of the condition include loss of hair, a potbellied appearance, and a lack of energy.
A veterinarian can diagnose the disorder by drawing blood and carrying out an adrenocorticotropic stimulation test. This test involves injecting the patient with ACTH and measuring his adrenal response. The results show the level of high or low cortisol levels are.
Once a dog has been diagnosed with Cushing's, they will need medication for the rest of his life. The medication will help control his symptoms and slow down the growth of the tumour. 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 if it's not treated and identified early enough.
Süßer Deutscher Schäferhund that are diagnosed and treated for epilepsy may remain healthy and enjoy a full and happy life. However, a dog that suffers from seizures that are not controlled may die due to oxygen starvation or a traumatic injury that occurs during seizures. Epilepsy that is not treated properly can cause depression, or the inability to eat or drink.
How the owner manages the condition could affect the effects of epilepsy on German Shepherds. The owners who are able to closely monitor their dog's medication and develop strategies to manage seizures and build an extensive network of support will be more likely to extend the pet's lifespan.
Like other breeds of dogs, German Shepherds can suffer from dental diseases. If left untreated, this condition could cause serious damage to gums and teeth and can cause infection in other organs such as the kidneys, the liver and the heart. Regular dental hygiene for dogs can decrease the chance of developing this condition.
Shepherds are at a much more bloat-prone risk than many other breeds, because of their chests that are narrow and deep. This stomach condition is dangerous and can occur when the intestines twist and expand with gas, severing blood flow to the stomach and spleen. This condition can be fatal in as little as 30 minutes if not treated immediately. If your Shepherd is showing signs of bloat, such as retching, heaving, or an overly full stomach or is in a praying position (front feet are down, rear end is up), you should go to an emergency vet as soon as you notice.
German Shepherds that experience the condition of bloat are more at risk of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. This is why it's so important to keep your dog up to date with regular veterinary visits and preventative treatment.
Elbow Dysplasia
The elbow is a hinge joint between the humerus (the long bone of the upper forelimb) as well as the radius and ulna (the two bones that make up the lower forelimb). The three bones have to fit together in a perfect way to withstand a lifetime of movement. If they don't fit together properly, elbow dysplasia develops. It's the most common cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs.
In certain cases of the disease, the cartilage between bones begins to degrade, causing swelling, pain and lameness. The damage is irreparable therefore early diagnosis and treatment are important.
The earliest signs of the disease in dogs are a slight or intermittent limp, particularly following exercise or upon getting up from a seated position. As the disease advances, 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 either on the elbows of both elbows.
A thorough screening of the elbow and hip of breeding animals is currently the best way to prevent these issues. These diseases can still occur despite screening. Breeding only dogs with elbows that have been proven to be healthy is the most effective approach. This will ensure that the genes responsible for elbow dysplasia don't pass onto offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy, an illness of the nervous system that affects German Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness in the hind legs, is a type of Degenerative Myelopathy. DM symptoms usually manifest in older dogs and progress to paralysis. The condition is believed to be the canine version of Lou Gehrig's Disease (amyotrophic lateral-sclerosis). It isn't known the reason why some dogs suffering from this disease get it, and others do not despite being genetically predisposed.
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for DM. The symptoms can be controlled by medication, but the condition progresses and leads to paralysis in the forelimbs. Some dogs will continue to endure for months or years with a good quality of life, however it is typical for owners to elect to end the life of their pet when they are incapable of standing or walking on their own.
To diagnose DM the doctor will conduct a thorough medical history and perform an examination of the neurological system. The neurologist looks for other diseases that have similar symptoms and requests blood samples to determine the genetic mutation associated this disease. A cerebrospinal fluid sample may also be collected to enable analysis and exclude other diseases. The neurologist will likely recommend MRI imaging using our sophisticated diagnostic imaging services. This will allow your vet to pinpoint the areas of the spinal cord affected by DM and track the progression of the disease over time. In addition, physical rehabilitation therapy is frequently beneficial for DM patients and can aid in slowing the progression of the disease.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are susceptible to certain health issues that may affect their lifespan. Understanding these conditions and how they affect your dog will aid you in taking preventative measures that support their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the "doughnut" of the spinal disc doesn't remain in its correct position. Each disk is surrounded by an outer fibrous ring known as an annulus, and a soft nucleus that absorbs impacts. If the nucleus becomes herniated, it can cause severe pain and paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative condition however, sudden trauma can trigger herniation.
Type I IVDD is characterized by sudden herniation into the spinal canal of nucleus of the disc. This can cause intense back pain, arching back, weakness of the limbs in the rear and lameness of the hind limbs. This condition can also cause the inability to walk, incontinence and weakness. If the spinal cord becomes compressed and dies, then your dog will become completely paralyzed. They may not even be able to use their rear legs.
Type II IVDD is typically seen in older dogs. It's the result of normal "wear and tear" which results in the weakened annulus fibers swelling with fluid, which leads to herniation, then compression of the spinal cord. In contrast to Type I IVDD, this form isn't caused by trauma or intense exercise. Signs include reluctance to turn the head or back, an arched back and a walk that appears weak or wobbly on the rear legs.