Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds reach their peak between the ages of 2 and 6. They are at their best in terms of physical fitness and mental sharpness.
They are at greater risk of developing diseases of the musculoskeletal system, cancer, and other health conditions which can impact their lives.
Working line German Shepherds usually lead more active lifestyles than show line counterparts. They require a nutrient-rich diet to support their active lifestyle and demands for exercise.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds are susceptible to a variety of health issues that include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and Cushing's disease. Knowing these conditions and taking the correct steps to treat or prevent them can allow your dog to have a longer lifespan. Regular veterinary visits, proper diet and regular 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 on the adrenal glands, or pituitary glands, is the most common reason for the condition. In approximately 80% to 85% of cases the tumor is located 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 situated on the adrenal glands which are located above the kidneys.
When a pet has Cushing's disease, it becomes more active and consumes more food than usual. Cushing's also causes an increase in thirst and urination. As a result, the pet has to drink more water and be outside more often for potty breaks. Other symptoms of the condition include hair loss, a potbellied appearance, and lethargy.
A doctor can diagnose this condition by drawing blood, and then performing the adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test. This test involves injecting the patient with ACTH and measuring his adrenal response. The results will show how high or low the cortisol level of the patient is.
Once a dog has been diagnosed with Cushing's, they will require medication for the remainder of his life. This medication will stop the growth of the tumor and keep his symptoms under control. Most dogs suffering from this disease can lead normal lives if they are properly treated and monitored. However, the condition may be fatal if it is not diagnosed and treated early.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds with epilepsy that is properly diagnosed and treated can live an extended and healthy life. Uncontrolled seizures can cause a dog to die due to oxygen deprivation or an injury. Epilepsy that is not treated properly can result in depression or the inability to eat and drink.
The effects of epilepsy on German Shepherds could be affected by the way in which the condition is managed by the owner. Owners who are able to be vigilant about their dog's medication and devise methods to manage seizures and also create an effective network of support are more likely to prolong the pet's lifespan.
As with all breeds of dog German Shepherds are susceptible to suffering from dental diseases. If not treated, this condition could cause irreparable damage to the teeth and gums, and could result in infection in other parts of the body, including the kidneys, liver and heart. Regular dental care for dogs can reduce the chance of developing this condition.
Shepherds are at a higher risk of bloat than other breeds because of their narrow, deep chests. This stomach condition is dangerous and can occur when the intestines turn and become filled with gas, causing a cutoff in blood flow to the stomach and the spleen. If not addressed immediately this condition can become fatal in just 30 minutes. If your Shepherd exhibits signs of bloat such as the retching, heaving, an overly full stomach or is in a prayer position (front feet are down, the rear is up) It is recommended to go to an emergency vet as soon as you notice.
German Shepherds with Bloat are at a higher chance of developing hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy than other breeds. It is important to be on top of your dog's veterinary care and preventative measures.
Elbow Dysplasia
The elbow is a hinge joint that connects 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 must fit together perfectly to withstand a lifetime of movement. If they don't connect perfectly, elbow dysplasia can occur. It's the leading cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs.
In certain instances, the cartilage that lies between the bones may deteriorate and cause swelling, pain and numbness. This damage is not reversible therefore early diagnosis and treatment is crucial.
The first signs of the disease in dogs include a slight limp or intermittent one, especially during exercise or when getting up from a seated position. As the disease progresses, the dog's range of motion in the elbow decreases and there may be fluid in the joint.
There are three kinds 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 can be found on one or both elbows.
Rigorous hip and elbow screening of breeding animals is the best option to avoid these issues. But, despite screenings these diseases can still occur. Breeding only with dogs whose elbows have been proven healthy is the most effective strategy. This will stop the genetics for elbow dysplasia being passed on to offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy is a neurological disease that slowly affects the spinal cord of German Shepherd dogs and causes weakness in the hind legs. DM symptoms usually manifest in older dogs and eventually lead to paralysis. The condition is believed to be a canine form of Lou Gehrig's disease (amyotrophic lateral-sclerosis). It is not known what causes dogs with this disease get it, and others do not, despite being genetically predisposed.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be controlled through medication, however the condition can progress and causes paralysis of the forelimbs. Some dogs are able to endure for months or years with a good quality of life, however it is not uncommon for owners to elect euthanasia once the dog becomes in a position where they are unable to walk or stand on their own.
Your veterinarian will conduct a neurological exam and take an extensive medical history to diagnose DM. The neurologist will check for other conditions that have similar clinical signs and take blood samples to check for the genetic mutations that are associated with this condition. The neurologist will also collect cerebrospinal fluid samples to enable analysis and to exclude other diseases. Neurologists may recommend MRI imaging with our advanced diagnostic imaging service. This will enable your vet to determine the areas of the spinal cord that are affected by DM and monitor the progress 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 problems that can impact their lifespan. Knowing about these conditions and how they affect your dog can assist you in taking preventative measures to ensure their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) occurs when the outer or inner of the spinal disk "donut" isn't remain where it is. Each disk is surrounded by an outer fibrous ring that is known as an annulus. It also has a soft nucleus which absorbs the impact. If it is ruptured, the softer nucleus may strike the spinal cord with a great force and cause severe pain, weakness or even paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative disease However, sudden traumas can trigger herniation.
Type I of IVDD is ascribed with the sudden rupture of the disc's nucleus into the spinal canal and results in intense back pain and back arching, 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 becomes compressed and dies then your dog will become completely paralyzed. They might not even be able to walk on their rear legs.
The onset of type II IVDD is more gradual and generally occurs in older dogs. Normal wear and tear causes the annulus fibers to grow larger with fluid. This causes compression and herniation of the spine. Unlike deutscher schäferhund welpen kaufen , this form is not triggered by trauma or intense exercise. Signs include a reluctance or inability to turn the head.