Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds reach their peak between ages 2 and 6. They're at their peak in terms of physical fitness and mental toughness.
They are more at risk for diseases of the musculoskeletal system, cancer, and other health conditions which could affect their lives.
German Shepherds from the working line often live more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet that is rich in nutrients to support their active lifestyles and exercise.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds are susceptible to several health conditions such as hip dysplasia elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and Cushing's disease. Understanding these ailments and taking the correct steps to prevent or treat them can help your dog have a longer lifespan. 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 on the adrenal glands or pituitary glands is the most common reason for the condition. In approximately 80% to 90% of cases, the tumor is in the pituitary gland which is a pea-sized, sized organ located at the brain's base. In about 15 percent of cases, the tumor is on one of the adrenal glands, which are located on the top of the kidneys.
Cushing's disease causes pets be more active and consume more food than usual. Cushing's may also cause increased thirst and the need to urinate. This means that the pet has to drink more water, and go outside for toilet breaks more often. Other signs of the condition include loss of hair, a bloated appearance, and lethargy.
A vet can diagnose this disorder by drawing blood, and then performing the adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and analyzing the adrenal response. The results indicate the degree to which his cortisol levels are.
When a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's disease it is required to take medication for the rest his life. The medication will help control his symptoms and slow down the growth of the cancer. The majority of dogs suffering from this condition are able to live normal lives when they are properly medicated and monitored. However, the condition may be fatal if it is not diagnosed and treated 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 die due to oxygen starvation or injury during seizures. Untreated epilepsy may also lead to depression or a failure to eat or drink, which could quickly be fatal.
The way the owner manages the condition could have an impact on the effects of epilepsy on German Shepherds. Owners who can be vigilant about their dog's medication, and develop seizure management techniques and build an effective network of support are more likely to prolong their pet's life.
As with other breeds of dog German Shepherds, too, suffer from dental disease. Left untreated, this problem can cause severe damage to gums and teeth and even cause infections in other parts of the body, like the liver, kidneys and the heart. Regular dental hygiene for dogs can decrease the chance of developing this condition.
Shepherds are at a higher risk of bloat than other breeds because of their chests that are narrow and deep. This stomach-related disorder can be deadly when the intestines twitch, filling with gas and cutting off the blood flow to the stomach or the spleen. This condition can be fatal in as little as 30 minutes if not treated immediately. If your Shepherd is showing signs of bloat, such as the retching, heaving, an overly full stomach or is in a praying position (front feet are down, and the rear end is up), you should bring them 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. This is why it's so important to keep your dog's health up to date with veterinary visits and preventative care.
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 form the lower forelimb). The three bones need to be perfectly aligned for a lifetime of motion. If they don't match perfectly, elbow dysplasia occurs. It's the most common cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs.
In some cases of the disease, the cartilage between the bones begins to degrade, causing swelling, pain, and lameness. The damage is not irreparable and early diagnosis and treatment is crucial.
Early signs of the condition in dogs are a mild limp or intermittent one, especially after exercise or upon getting up from a sitting position. As the disease progresses, the dog's range-of-motion in the elbow decreases, and there could 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 the Ununited Aconeal Process (UAP). Each of these conditions has its own distinct appearance on x-rays and can be present in both elbows or one of them.
Rigorous hip and elbow screening of breeding animals is the best bet to prevent these problems. These conditions can still develop despite screenings. Breeding only dogs whose elbows have been confirmed to be healthy is the most effective method. This will ensure that the genes for elbow dysplasia don't pass to offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy, an autoimmune disorder that affects German Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness in the hind legs, is a type of Degenerative Myelopathy. DM symptoms usually appear in older dogs, and can progress to paralysis. It is thought to be the canine equivalent to amyotrophic lateral syndrome (Lou Gehrig's disease). Despite being genetically predisposed to this condition, it's unclear 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 can cause paralysis in the forelimbs. Some dogs last for a number of months or even years with high quality of life. However, it's common that owners choose to kill their pet if they are in a position to walk or stand on its own.
To diagnose DM, your vet will conduct a thorough medical history and then conduct a neurological examination. The neurologist checks for other diseases that have similar clinical signs, and asks for blood samples to examine the genetic mutations that cause with the disease. The neurologist will also obtain a sample of cerebrospinal liquid to enable analysis and to rule out other diseases. The neurologist may recommend MRI imaging using our sophisticated diagnostic imaging services. This will allow your vet to determine areas of the spine that are affected by DM and monitor the progression of the disease. In addition, physical rehabilitation therapy is often beneficial for DM patients and can aid in slowing the progression of the disease.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are at risk of certain health issues that can impact their life expectancy. Knowing these conditions and how they affect your dog will aid you in taking preventative measures to help ensure their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) occurs when the outside or inside of the spinal disk "donut" isn't remain where it is. Each disk has a tough fibrous outer ring, known as an annulus fibrosus, and an uncompressive nucleus pulposus within which absorbs impact. When the nucleus is herniated it can cause severe pain and paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative disease however, sudden trauma can cause herniation.
Type I of IVDD is connected with the sudden insertion of the disc's nucleus material into the spinal canal. It results in severe back pain and back arching and weakness in the rear limbs, and hind-limb lameness. schäferhundwelpen can be accompanied by weakness, incontinence, and incoordination. If the spinal chord is compressed and dies, your dog will be totally crippled. They may not even be able to use their rear legs.
The development of IVDD type II is more gradual and typically occurs in older dogs. It's a result of normal "wear and tear" that causes the annulus fibers that are weakening expanding with fluid, leading to herniation, then compression of the spinal cord. Contrary to Type I IVDD, this form is not triggered by trauma or exercise. It is evident by a reluctance or inability to turn the head.