Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds reach their peak between the ages of 2 and 6. They're at their strongest in terms of physical fitness and mental toughness.
Their large size puts them at a greater chance of developing cancer, musculoskeletal issues, and other health issues that could have a negative impact on their lives.
Working line German Shepherds typically have a more active lifestyle than their show line counterparts. They require a diet high in nutrients to support their active lifestyles and exercise.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds may suffer from several health conditions including hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. They are also susceptible to Cushing's Disease, degenerative myelopathy and hip dysplasia. Understanding these issues and taking the appropriate steps to prevent or manage them can allow your dog to live a longer 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. The condition is usually caused by a tumor that has formed on the pituitary gland or one of the adrenal glands. In about 80% to 85% of cases, the tumor is in the pituitary gland which is a pea-sized organ near the base of the brain. About 15% of the cases, the tumor is located on the adrenal glands which are located above the kidneys.
If a pet suffers from Cushing's disease, it becomes more active and eats more frequently than usual. The condition can also cause increased thirst and urination. As a result, the pet will need to drink more fluids and be outside more often to take a break from the toilet. Other signs of the condition include hair loss, a bloated appearance and lethargy.
A veterinarian can identify the condition by drawing blood and performing an adrenocorticotropic hormonal stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and measuring the adrenal response. The results show how high or low his cortisol levels are.
If a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's, they will require medication for the remainder of his life. This medication will slow the growth of the tumor Blaue SchäFerhunde and keep the symptoms under control. The majority of dogs suffering from this condition can lead normal lives if they are properly medicated and monitored. The condition can be fatal, however, in the event that it isn't treated or diagnosed early.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds with epilepsy that is properly treated and diagnosed can live a long and healthy life. However, a dog who suffers from uncontrolled seizures may be killed due to oxygen deficiency or a traumatic injury that occurs during seizures. Untreated epilepsy may also cause depression or a lack of appetite or drink, which can quickly be fatal.
The impact of epilepsy in German Shepherds can be affected by the way in which the condition is managed by the owner. A dog owner who is able to closely monitor the dog's medication, develop appropriate strategies to manage seizures and establish a strong support system is more likely to extend the life span of their pet.
As with all breeds of dog German Shepherds are susceptible to suffering from dental diseases. If not treated, this condition can cause serious damage to gums and teeth and even result in infections in other parts of the body, such as the liver, kidneys, and the heart. Regular dental care for dogs can lower the chance of developing this condition.
The chests that are deep in the Shepherd breed make them more susceptible to bloat. This dangerous stomach disorder occurs when the intestines twitch, filling with gas and cutting off the blood flow to the stomach or the spleen. The condition can be fatal in as little as 30 minutes if it is not treated promptly. If your dog shows signs of bloat, like vomiting or retching with little or no food coming in or an overly large stomach, or lying in a prayer position (front feet down, rear end up) then take them to the emergency vet right away.
German Shepherds who experience bloat are at a greater chance of developing hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy than other breeds. It is important to be on top of your dog's medical care and preventative measures.
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 form the lower forelimb). The three bones must be able to fit together perfectly to withstand the rigors of daily movement. If they do not, a condition known as elbow dysplasia is created. It's the most common cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs.
In some instances of the disease the cartilage between the bones erodes and leads to swelling, pain, and lameness. The damage is irreparable therefore it is crucial to diagnose and treat the condition as early as possible.
The first signs of this disease in dogs are the appearance of a slight limp or a sporadic one, especially after exercise or upon getting up from a sitting position. As the disease advances the dog's elbow's range of motion decreases. There may also 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 Processing (UAP). Each of these conditions is distinct in its appearance on x-rays and may be present in both elbows or one of them.
The best method currently to prevent this issue is to test breeding animals for hip and elbow issues. However, even with screenings, these diseases can still be present. Breeding only dogs with elbows that have been confirmed to be healthy is the most effective method. This will stop the genetics for elbow dysplasia from passing onto offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy, a neurological disorder that affects German Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness of the hind legs, is a form of Degenerative Myelopathy. DM symptoms typically manifest in older dogs, and can progress to paralysis. The condition is considered the canine equivalent to amyotrophic lateral degeneration (Lou Gehrig's disease). It is unclear why some dogs with this disease get it, and others don't despite having a genetic predisposition.
Unfortunately there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be controlled with medication, but the disease progresses and eventually causes paralysis of the forelimbs, too. Some dogs will continue to live for months or years with a high standard of life, but it is not uncommon for owners to choose 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 the doctor will conduct a thorough medical history and perform a neurological examination. The neurologist will look for other diseases that have similar symptoms, and asks for blood samples to test the genetic mutation that causes this disease. A cerebrospinal fluid sample may also be obtained to enable analysis and the exclusion of other diseases. The neurologist will likely recommend MRI imaging using our sophisticated diagnostic imaging services. This will enable your vet to identify the areas of the spinal cord that are affected by DM and track the progression of the disease over time. In addition, physical rehabilitation therapy is often beneficial for DM patients and can help slow the progression of the disease.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are prone to health problems that can reduce their life expectancy. Knowing these conditions and how they affect your dog will aid you in taking preventative measures that support 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 called an annulus. It also has a soft nucleus that absorbs impact. When the nucleus is herniated it can cause severe pain and paralysis. IVDD is usually a degenerative process, although the sudden trauma can cause herniation in dogs with weak disks.
Type I IVDD is characterised by a sudden herniation of the spinal canal that is located in the disc's nucleus. This causes intense back pain arching back, weakness of the rear limbs, and lameness in the hind limbs. This condition can also cause weakness, incontinence and incoordination. If the spinal chord becomes compressed and dies then your dog will become completely disabled. They may not even be able to move their rear legs.
Type II IVDD is typically seen in dogs that are older. Normal wear and tear causes annulus fibers to expand with fluid. This leads to herniation and compression of the spine. This form of IVDD isn't caused either by trauma or vigorous exercise, as is the case with Type I. It is characterized by a refusal to turn the head or back, an arched back and a walk that seems weak or wobbly on the rear leg.