German Shepherds peak between ages 2 and 6. They're at their peak in terms of physical fitness and mental sharpness.
Their large size makes them at a higher risk of developing cancer, muscle and joint issues, and other health issues that could have a negative impact on their lives.
Working line German Shepherds usually have a more active lifestyle than their show line counterparts. They require a nutritious diet to support their activity levels and exercise demands.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds can suffer from various health issues, including hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. They are also susceptible to Cushing's Disease, degenerative myelopathy, and hip dysplasia. Knowing these issues and taking the proper steps to prevent or treat them can allow your dog to live longer. Regular visits to the vet, 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 typically caused by a tumor on the pituitary gland or one of the adrenal glands. In between 80% and 90% of cases, the tumor occurs on the pituitary, a small organ located near the base of brain. About 15 percent of the instances, entzückendescäferhundwelpen.de the tumor is located on the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys.
Cushing's disease causes pets be more active and consume more food than usual. The condition can also cause more thirst and increased the need to urinate. This means that the pet has to drink more fluids, and take potty breaks more often. Other symptoms of the condition include hair loss, a bloated appearance and lethargy.
A vet can diagnose this disorder by drawing blood and then performing the adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and then measuring their adrenal response. The results reveal how high or low the patient's cortisol level is.
Once a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's disease, it will require medication to rest his life. This medication will stop the growth of the tumor and keep his symptoms under control. If they are monitored properly and treated, most dogs suffering from this condition be able to live normal lives. The condition can be fatal, however, in the event that it isn't treated or detected early enough.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds that are diagnosed and treated for epilepsy may be healthy and enjoy a happy life. Uncontrolled seizures can cause dogs to suffer from oxygen deprivation or an injury. Epilepsy that is not treated properly can lead to depression, or the inability to eat and drink.
The effects of epilepsy in German Shepherds can be influenced by how the condition is controlled by the owner. Owners who can be vigilant about their dog's medication and develop seizure management techniques, as well as build a strong network of support, are more likely to prolong the pet's lifespan.
Like other dog breeds German Shepherds, too, suffer from dental disease. Left untreated, this problem can cause serious damage to gums and teeth and even cause infection in other parts of the body, such as the liver, kidneys and heart. Regular dental care for dogs can decrease the chance of developing this condition.
Shepherds are at a higher risk of bloat than other breeds because of their deep, narrow chests. This stomach condition is dangerous and can occur when the intestines twist and become filled with gas, causing a cutoff in blood flow to the stomach and spleen. The condition can cause death in less than 30 minutes if not addressed promptly. If your Shepherd is showing symptoms of bloat like retching, heaving, or an overly full stomach, or is in a prayer position (front feet are down, and the rear end is up) You should take them to an emergency vet right away.
German Shepherds with bloat are at a higher risk of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. This is why it's important to keep your dog's health up to date with veterinary visits and preventative treatments.
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 make up the lower forelimb). The three bones must fit perfectly to allow for a lifetime of movement. If they don't fit together perfectly, elbow dysplasia can occur. It's the leading cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs.
In certain instances the cartilage between the bones may be damaged and cause swelling, pain and lameness. The damage is not reverseable and it is therefore crucial to diagnose and treat the condition early.
The first indications of the disease in a dog are a slight or intermittent limp, mainly after exercise or after getting up from a resting position. As the disease progresses, the dog's elbow range of motion decreases. There could also be fluid in the joint.
There are three major kinds of elbow dysplasia: Fragmented Coronoid Process, Osteochondrosis of the Humeral Condyle, and Ununited Anconeal Process. Each of these conditions can be seen on both elbows or one of them.
A thorough screening of the elbow and hip of breeding animals is the best bet to prevent these issues. However, despite screenings, these diseases can still be present. Breeding only dogs whose elbows have been confirmed to be healthy is the most effective strategy. This will stop the genetics for elbow dysplasia from being passed to offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy is a neurological disorder that gradually affects the spinal cord of German Shepherd dogs and causes weakness in the hind legs. The signs of DM usually manifest in older dogs, and then become paralyzed. The condition is regarded as the canine equivalent to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease). It is not known what causes dogs with this disease develop it and others don't despite being genetically predisposed.
Unfortunately there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be managed through medication, however the condition can progress and causes paralysis of the forelimbs. Some dogs are able to live for months or even years with a good quality of life, however it is common for owners to elect to end the life of their pet when they are in a position where they are unable to walk or stand on their own.
To diagnose DM to diagnose it, your doctor will take a detailed medical history and conduct a neurological examination. The neurologist will search for other diseases with similar symptoms and will request blood samples to test for the genetic mutations that are associated with this disease. The neurologist will also collect a sample of cerebrospinal liquid to allow for analysis, and to exclude other diseases. The neurologists may suggest MRI imaging using our advanced diagnostic imaging service. This will allow your vet to identify areas of the spine that are affected by DM and monitor the progression of the disease. Physical rehabilitation therapy can be beneficial for DM sufferers and help slow the progression of the condition.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are susceptible to health issues that may impact their lifespan. Knowing these conditions and the ways they affect your dog can help you take preventative action 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 has a strong fibrous outer ring called an annulus fibrosus, as well as a non-compressive nucleus pulposus inside that absorbs impact. If it is ruptured, the softer nucleus could hit the spinal cord with tremendous force and cause extreme pain, weakness, or paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative disorder however, sudden trauma could cause herniation.
Type I of IVDD is connected with the sudden herniation of the disc's nucleus material into the spinal canal. It results in intense back pain and back arching and weakness in the limbs of the rear, and hind-limb lameness. This condition can also result in weakness, incontinence and incoordination. If the spinal cord becomes compressed and dies, your dog will become completely paralyzed, and may be unable to use their rear legs even.
The development of type II IVDD is more gradual and generally occurs in older dogs. It's caused by normal "wear and tear" which results in the weak annulus fibers swelling with fluid, which leads to herniation, and then compression of the spinal cord. Unlike Type I IVDD, this form is not triggered by trauma or intense exercise. Signs include reluctance to turn the head, an arched back, and a walk that seems weak or wobbly on the rear leg.
