Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds peak between the ages 2 and 6. The German Shepherd is at its peak in terms of mental and physical agility.
Their size puts them at a greater risk of developing cancer muscle and joint issues, and other health conditions that may impact lifespan.
German Shepherds of the working line often live more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet that is rich in nutrients to sustain their high levels of activity and exercise.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds can suffer from numerous health issues like elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and. They also are susceptible to Cushing's Disease, degenerative myelopathy, and hip dysplasia. Understanding these conditions and taking proper steps to prevent or treat them can help your dog live a longer and healthier life. 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. A tumor of the adrenal glands or pituitary glands is the most common reason for the condition. In approximately 80% to 90% of cases the tumor is located in the pituitary gland which is a pea-sized, sized organ located at the brain's base. In about 15% of cases the tumor is located on one of the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys.
When a pet has Cushing's, it becomes active and eats more frequently than normal. Cushing's may also cause increased thirst and urine production. This means that the pet needs to drink more water, and also go outside for frequent breaks to urinate. Other symptoms of the condition include hair loss, a potbellied appearance, and lethargy.
A veterinarian can identify the condition by drawing blood and conducting an adrenocorticotropic stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and measuring their adrenal response. The results will show the level of high or low cortisol levels are.
If a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's, they will need medication for the remainder of his life. This medication will slow the growth of the tumor and keep his symptoms under control. If they are monitored properly and treated, the majority of dogs suffering from this condition can have normal lives. The condition could be fatal if it's not treated and diagnosed early.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds that are diagnosed and treated for epilepsy can be healthy and enjoy a happy life. However, a dog who has seizures that are uncontrolled could die due to oxygen starvation or injury during seizures. Epilepsy that is not treated properly can lead to depression or an inability to eat or drink, which could rapidly lead to death.
The way the owner manages the condition could affect the effects of epilepsy in German Shepherds. A pet owner who is able to monitor the dog's medication, devise appropriate strategies for managing seizures and establish a strong support network is more likely to prolong their pet's life span.
As with all breeds of dog German Shepherds are also prone to suffering from dental disease. If not treated, this condition may cause serious damage to gums and teeth and may lead to infections in other organs like kidneys, the liver, and the heart. Dogs that receive regular professional dental care are less susceptible to this issue.
Shepherds are at a more bloat-prone risk than many other breeds, thanks to their chests that are narrow and deep. This dangerous stomach disorder occurs when the intestines are twisted to fill with gas, cutting off blood flow to the stomach or spleen. If not treated immediately the condition could be fatal in less than half an hour. If your dog shows signs of bloat, like vomiting or retching with little or no food coming up, an enlarged abdomen or lying in a prayer position (front feet down and back end up) then take them to an emergency vet immediately.
German Shepherds who experience bloat are at greater risk of developing hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy than other breeds. This is why it's so important to keep your dog current with veterinary visits and preventative treatment.
Elbow Dysplasia
The elbow is an articulation between the humerus (the long bone of the upper forelimb) and the ulna and radius, (the two bones of the lower forelimb). The three bones have to fit perfectly to endure the rigors of daily movement. When they do not, a condition known as elbow dysplasia develops. It's the leading cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs.
In some cases the cartilage between the bones may deteriorate and cause swelling, pain and numbness. The damage is not irreparable therefore early diagnosis and treatment is crucial.
The first signs of the condition in dogs are a mild limp or an intermittent one, particularly after exercise or upon getting up from a sitting position. As the disease progresses, the dog's range-of-motion in the elbow decreases. There may 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 has a unique appearance on x-rays and can be found in one or both elbows.
Currently, the best way to avoid this issue is to test breeding animals for elbow and hip problems. These diseases can still occur despite screening. Breeding only dogs with elbows that have been proven healthy is the most effective strategy. This will stop the genes for elbow dysplasia from being passed on to offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy is an illness of the nervous system that slowly affects the spinal cord of German Shepherd dogs and causes weakness in the hind legs. The signs of DM generally manifest in older dogs, and then develop into paralysis. The condition is thought to be the canine equivalent of Lou Gehrig's Disease (amyotrophic lateral-sclerosis). It is unclear what causes dogs with this disease develop it and others don't despite being genetically predisposed.
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for DM. The symptoms can be controlled by medication, but the condition can progress and causes paralysis of the forelimbs. Some dogs will continue to endure for months or years with a high standard of life, however it is common for owners to choose to kill their dog when it becomes unable to stand or walk on their own.
Your doctor will conduct a neurological exam and take a detailed medical history to diagnose DM. The neurologist checks for other diseases that have similar clinical signs, and will request blood samples to examine the genetic mutation associated this disease. The neurologist will also obtain cerebrospinal fluid samples to allow for analysis and to rule out other diseases. Neurologists may recommend 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 progress of the disease. Physical rehabilitation therapy can be beneficial for DM sufferers and can slow the progression of the condition.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are prone to certain health issues that could alter their life expectancy. Recognizing these conditions and understanding how they affect your dog can aid you in taking preventative steps that supports their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is when the outside or inside of the spinal disk "donut" doesn't stay where it belongs. Each disk has an outer fibrous ring that is known as an annulus, and a soft nucleus which absorbs impacts. When the nucleus gets herniated it can cause severe pain and a paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative disorder however, sudden trauma can cause herniation.
Type I IVDD is characterized by a sudden rupture into the spinal canal of the disc's nucleus. deutsche schäferhunde kaufen can cause intense back pain arching back, a weakness of the rear limbs and lameness in the hind limbs. It may also be accompanied with incontinence, weakness, and incoordination. If the spinal cord gets compressed and dies, your dog will become completely paralyzed, often unable to use their rear legs in any way.
Type II IVDD usually occurs in older dogs. Normal wear and tear causes the annulus fibers to expand with fluid. This causes compression and herniation of the spine. This type of IVDD is not triggered by trauma or intense exercise, unlike Type I. Signs include reluctance to turn the head and an arched back and a walk that appears weak or wobbly on the back legs.