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.

They are more at risk of developing cancer, musculoskeletal problems, and other health issues that can affect their lifespan.

German Shepherds from the working line usually lead more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a nutrient-rich diet to help them meet their high activity levels and demands for exercise.

Cushing's Disease

German Shepherds are prone to several health conditions that include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy and Cushing's disease. Knowing these conditions and taking proper steps to prevent or manage them can help your dog live a longer and healthier life. Regular visits to the vet, good 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 approximately 80% to 85percent of cases the tumor is located in the pituitary gland which is a pea-sized, sized organ located at the base of the brain. In about 15 percent of cases the tumor is located on one of the adrenal glands, which are located on the top of the kidneys.

When a pet has Cushing's disease, it becomes more active and eats more than usual. Cushing's can also trigger an increase in thirst and the need to urinate. This means that the pet needs to drink more fluids, and also go outside for frequent breaks to urinate. 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 ACTH into the patient and then measuring the adrenal response. The results show how high or low his cortisol levels are.

When a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's disease it will require medication to rest his life. The medication will help control the symptoms and slow the growth of the tumor. Most dogs with this condition can live 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 suffering from epilepsy who is properly treated and diagnosed can live an extended and healthy life. However, a dog who suffers from seizures that are not controlled may be killed due to oxygen deficiency or a traumatic injury that occurs during the course of a seizure. Untreated epilepsy may also lead to depression or a lack of appetite or drink, which can quickly turn fatal.

The effects of epilepsy on German Shepherds can be influenced by the way the condition is controlled by the owner. A dog owner who is able to closely monitor the dog's medication, devise appropriate strategies for managing seizures and deutscher schäferhund lebenserwartung altdeutscher schäferhund kaufen welpen deutscher schäferhund kaufen schweiz [check out this one from niadd.com] build a strong support system is more likely to prolong the life span of their pet.

Like all breeds of dogs German Shepherds are susceptible to suffering from dental problems. If not treated, this condition can cause serious damage to teeth and gums and may cause infections in other areas of the body, like the kidneys, liver and heart. Regular dental visits for dogs can lower the chance of developing this condition.

The deep chests of the Shepherd breed make them more prone to bloat. This stomach condition is dangerous and can occur when the intestines twitch and become filled with gas, causing a cutoff in blood flow to the stomach and the spleen. The condition can be fatal in less than 30 minutes if it is not treated immediately. If your Shepherd shows signs of bloat, like crying or heaving, with little or no food coming in or an abdominal bulge, or lying in a prayer posture (front feet down, rear end up) then take them to an emergency vet right away.

German Shepherds who experience bloat are at a greater risk of developing hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy than other breeds. It is essential to be on top of your dog's veterinarian care and preventative measures.

Elbow Dysplasia

The elbow is a hinge between the humerus (the long bone in the upper forelimb) and the ulna and radius, (the two bones of the lower forelimb). The three bones must be perfectly aligned for a lifetime of movement. If they don't match perfectly, elbow dysplasia occurs. It's the most frequent cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs.

In certain cases of the disease the cartilage between the bones erodes and leads to pain, swelling, and lameness. The damage is not reverseable and it is therefore crucial to recognize and treat the condition early.

The first indications of the disease in a dog are a mild or intermittent limp, especially 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 types of elbow dysplasia. They are: Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP), Osteochondrosis on the Humeral Condyle (OCH), and Ununited Aconeal Process (UAP). Each of these conditions has its own distinct appearance on x-rays and may be found in both elbows or one of them.

A thorough screening of the elbow and hip of breeding animals is currently the best option to avoid these problems. However, despite screenings, these diseases can still occur. Breeding only dogs with elbows that have been proven 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 is a neurological disorder that gradually affects the spinal cord of German Shepherd dogs and causes weakness in the hind legs. DM symptoms usually manifest in older dogs and progress to paralysis. The condition is regarded as the canine equivalent of amyotrophic lateral syndrome (Lou Gehrig's disease). Although dogs are genetically predisposed to this disease, it is unknown why some affected dogs develop the disease and others do not.

Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for DM. The symptoms can be treated with medication, but the disease is progressive and eventually leads to paralysis of the forelimbs, too. Some dogs are able to live for months or even years with a good quality of life, but it is typical for owners to choose to kill their dog when it becomes unable to stand or walk on their own.

Your doctor will conduct an examination for neurological disorders and will create an accurate medical record to diagnose DM. The neurologist checks for other diseases with similar clinical signs, and asks for blood samples to determine the genetic mutations that cause with this condition. A sample of cerebrospinal fluid will also be collected to permit analysis and the exclusion of other diseases. The neurologist will likely recommend MRI imaging using our sophisticated diagnostic imaging services. This will allow 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 can be beneficial for DM patients and can help to slow the progression of the disease.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

German Shepherds are susceptible to health issues that may reduce their life expectancy. Recognizing these conditions and understanding the ways they affect your dog can assist you in taking preventative measures that will prolong their lives.

Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the "doughnut" of the spinal disc does not remain in its correct position. Each disk has an outer fibrous ring known as an annulus, and an annulus with a soft nucleus that absorbs impact. If the nucleus becomes herniated, it can cause severe pain and even paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative condition, but sudden trauma can trigger herniation.

Type I IVDD is characterised by sudden herniation into the spinal canal of the nucleus of the disc. This causes intense back pain arching back, a weakness of the rear limbs and lameness in the hind limbs. It could be accompanied by weakness, incontinence, and incoordination. If the spinal cord is compressed and dies it will cause your dog to become completely paralyzed, often not able to use their rear legs in any way.

Type II IVDD is typically seen in older dogs. Normal wear and tear causes annulus fibers to expand with fluid. This causes compression and herniation of spine. This type of IVDD isn't caused either by trauma or heavy exercise, as is the case with Type I. Signs include reluctance to turn the head and an arched back and a walk that appears weak or wobbly on the rear leg.