Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds peak between the ages 2 and 6. They're at their strongest in terms of physical fitness and mental sharpness.
Their large size puts them at a greater risk of developing cancer musculoskeletal issues, and other health issues that could have a negative impact on their lives.
Working line German Shepherds typically have more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet that is rich in nutrients to help them maintain their active lifestyles and exercise.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds are prone to various health issues that include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and Cushing's disease. Understanding these issues and taking the proper steps to prevent or treat them will allow your dog to live a longer life. Regular visits to the vet, good 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 in the adrenal glands or pituitary glands is the most common cause of the condition. In between 80% and 85% of cases the tumor is located in the pituitary gland which is a pea-sized organ near the brain's base. In about 15% of cases, the tumor is on one of the adrenal glands, which are located on the top of the kidneys.
If a pet is suffering from Cushing's, it becomes active and eats more frequently than usual. The condition also causes increased thirst and urination, so the pet needs to drink more fluids and go outside more often for bathroom breaks. Other signs of the condition include hair loss, 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 the patient with ACTH and analyzing his adrenal response. The results reveal how high or low the patient's cortisol level is.
If a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's disease, he will require medication for the remainder of his life. This medication will slow the growth of the tumor and keep his symptoms under control. Most dogs suffering from this disease are able to live normal lives when they are properly medicated and monitored. The condition could be fatal, however, if it's not treated and detected in the early stages.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds suffering from epilepsy that is treated and diagnosed correctly can live a long and healthy existence. However, a dog who suffers from uncontrolled seizures may die due to oxygen starvation or injury during a seizure. Epilepsy that is not treated properly can result in depression or the inability to eat or drink.
The effects of epilepsy in German Shepherds can be influenced by how the condition is handled by the owner. The owners who are able to be vigilant about their dog's medication and develop methods to manage seizures, as well as build an extensive network of support, are more likely to prolong the pet's life.
Like other breeds of dogs German Shepherds are also susceptible to suffering from dental diseases. Untreated, this condition can cause severe damage to gums and teeth and can cause infection in other organs like kidneys, liver, and the heart. Dogs who receive regular professional dental care are less prone to this issue.
Shepherds are at a much higher risk of bloat than other breeds thanks to their deep, narrow chests. This dangerous stomach disorder occurs if the intestines twist to fill with gas, cutting off the blood flow to the stomach or the spleen. If not addressed immediately the condition could be fatal in just 30 minutes. If your Shepherd exhibits signs of bloat, like crying or heaving, with little or no food coming in or an abdominal bulge, or lying in a prayer position (front feet down, rear end up) Take your pet to the emergency vet right away.
German Shepherds that experience bloat have a higher risk of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. This is why it's so important to keep your dog current with regular veterinary visits and preventative treatment.
Elbow Dysplasia
The elbow is an articulation between the humerus, (the long bone of the upper forelimb) as well as the radius and ulna, (the two bones of the lower forelimb). The three bones must be able to fit perfectly to endure the rigors of daily movement. If they don't, a condition referred to as elbow dysplasia is created. It's the most common cause of lameness in front legs (limping) in dogs.
In some cases the cartilage between the bones may deteriorate and cause swelling, pain and numbness. This damage is not reversible, so early diagnosis and treatment are important.
The first signs of the condition in dogs are a slight limp or intermittent one, especially after exercise or upon getting up from a seated position. As the disease progresses, a dog's range of motion at the elbow decreases and there could be fluid in the joint.
There are three major types of elbow dysplasia. Entzückende Schäferhund Welpen , 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 the best option to avoid these problems. These conditions can still develop even after screening. The most effective approach is to breed only with dogs whose parents have been proven to have healthy elbows. This will prevent the genes for elbow dysplasia from being passed to offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy is 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 typically manifest in older dogs and can progress to paralysis. The condition is regarded as the canine equivalent of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease). Despite being genetically predisposed this disease, it is not known why some dogs develop the disease whereas others do not.
Unfortunately there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be treated by medication, but the condition can progress and causes paralysis of the forelimbs. Some dogs can live for months or even years with a high quality of life, however it is not uncommon for owners to elect euthanasia once the dog becomes unable to stand or walk on their own.
Your vet will perform a neurological exam and take an accurate medical history to diagnose DM. The neurologist will check for other conditions that have similar clinical signs and will request blood samples to test for the genetic mutations that are associated with this disease. The neurologist may also request cerebrospinal fluid samples to enable analysis and to rule out other diseases. The neurologist may recommend MRI imaging through our advanced diagnostic imaging service. This will enable your vet to pinpoint the areas of the spinal cord affected by DM and monitor the progress 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 can affect their lifespan. Knowing 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 does not remain in its proper position. Each disk is made of a fibrous outer ring called an annulus fibrousus, and a non-compressive nucleus pulposus inside which absorbs impact. When herniated, the softer nucleus may strike the spinal cord with great force and cause severe pain, weakness, or paralysis. IVDD is typically a degenerative condition, however sudden trauma can lead to herniation in dogs with weak disks.
Type I IVDD is characterized by sudden herniation into the spinal canal of disc's nucleus. This can cause intense back pain arching back, a weakness of the limbs in the rear and lameness of the hind limbs. This condition can also cause weakening, incontinence, and incoordination. If the spinal chord is compressed and dies, your dog will become completely crippled. They may not even be able to walk on their rear legs.
Type II IVDD typically occurs in dogs that are older. It's the result of normal "wear and tear" which results in the weakened annulus fibers expanding with fluid, leading to herniation, and then compression of the spinal cord. This form of IVDD is not triggered either by trauma or heavy exercise, which is not the case for Type I. The symptoms include a reluctance to turn the head or back, an arched back and a walk that seems weak or wobbly on the rear legs.