Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds reach their peak between the ages of 2 and 6. They are at their best in terms of physical fitness and mental sharpness.
They are at a higher risk of developing illnesses of the musculoskeletal system and other health conditions which can impact their lives.
schäferhund welpe kaufen from the working line usually lead more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet rich in nutrients to meet their activity levels and exercise demands.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds are susceptible to several health conditions that include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and Cushing's disease. Understanding these conditions and taking the appropriate steps to treat or prevent them can help your dog have a longer lifespan. Regular veterinary visits, good nutrition, and daily exercise are the key to a healthy and happy large breed.
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 90% of cases, the tumor develops on the pituitary, a tiny organ located close to the base of the brain. In about 15% of cases, the tumor is on one of the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys.
Cushing's disease can cause pets to be more active and eat more than normal. Cushing's can also trigger more thirst and increased urination. This means that the pet has to drink more fluids, and go outside for toilet breaks more often. Other signs of the condition include hair loss, a bloated appearance, and lethargy.
A veterinarian can diagnose the disorder by drawing blood and carrying out an adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test. This test involves injecting the patient with ACTH and analyzing the adrenal response. The results will show how high or low the cortisol level of the patient is.
When a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's disease it will require medication to rest his life. The medication will slow down the growth of the tumor and keep the symptoms under control. If they are monitored properly and medicated, most dogs suffering from this condition can have normal lives. However, the condition can be fatal if not detected and treated in the early stages.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds that are properly diagnosed and treated for epilepsy could live to a healthy age and enjoy a full and happy life. However, a dog who suffers from uncontrolled seizures may die due to oxygen starvation or injury in a seizure. Untreated epilepsy can also result in depression or an inability to eat or drink, which could quickly be fatal.
The effects of epilepsy in German Shepherds can be influenced by how the condition is controlled by the owner. The owners who are able to closely monitor their dog's medication and devise strategies to manage seizures and also create an effective network of support are more likely to extend the pet's lifespan.
As with other breeds of dog German Shepherds, too, suffer from dental problems. If not treated, this condition may cause severe damage to gums and teeth and may lead to infections in other organs such as the kidneys, liver, and the heart. Dogs who receive regular dental care are less prone to this issue.
The deep chests of the Shepherd breed make them more prone to bloating. This stomach-related disorder can be deadly when the intestines twitch and become filled with gas, cutting off blood flow to the stomach and spleen. The condition can be fatal in less than 30 minutes if not treated immediately. If your Shepherd shows signs of bloat such as Heaving, retching, or an overly full stomach or is in a prayer position (front feet are down, and the rear end is up) You should take them to an emergency vet as soon as you notice.
German Shepherds with bloat have a higher chance of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. This is why it's so important to keep your dog up to date with veterinary visits and preventative treatment.
Elbow Dysplasia
The elbow is an integral part of the humerus (the long bone in the upper forelimb) as well as the radius and ulna, (the two bones of the lower forelimb). The three bones have to fit together perfectly to withstand an entire lifetime of motion. When they don't, a condition called elbow dysplasia develops. It's the most frequent reason dogs become weak in their front legs.
In certain cases of the disease, the cartilage between the bones erodes and leads to pain, swelling and lameness. This damage cannot be reversed, so it is important to diagnose and treat the condition early.
The first signs of the disease in dogs are a slight or intermittent limp, particularly following exercise or upon getting up from a resting position. As the disease advances, the dog's elbow range of motion decreases. There could also be fluid in the joint.
There are three kinds of elbow dysplasia. They are: 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 xrays and could be found in one or both elbows.
Rigorous hip and elbow screening of breeding animals is the best option to avoid these issues. These conditions can still develop even after screening. Breeding only dogs with elbows that have been proven healthy is the most effective method. This will stop the genetics for elbow dysplasia being passed on to 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 degeneration (Lou Gehrig's disease). It is not known the reason why some dogs suffering from this condition develop it, while others do not despite being genetically predisposed.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be treated by medication, but the condition progresses and leads to paralysis in the forelimbs. Some dogs last for a number of months or years with a high quality of life. However, it is common for owners to opt for euthanasia when their dog is in a position to walk or stand on its own.
To diagnose DM, your vet will conduct a thorough medical history and then conduct an examination of the brain. The neurologist looks for other illnesses that show similar clinical signs, and requests blood samples to test the genetic mutation that causes this disease. The neurologist will also obtain cerebrospinal fluid to allow for analysis, and to rule out other illnesses. The neurologists may suggest MRI imaging using our advanced diagnostic imaging service. This will allow your vet to pinpoint the areas of the spinal cord affected by DM and monitor the progress of the disease over time. Additionally 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 issues that may impact their lifespan. Understanding these conditions and how they affect your dog can aid you in taking preventative steps to ensure their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the "doughnut" of the spinal disc doesn't stay in its proper place. Each disk has an outer fibrous ring called an annulus, and an annulus with a soft nucleus that absorbs the impact. When the nucleus is herniated it can cause severe pain and paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative disorder However, sudden traumas can cause herniation.
Type I IVDD is defined by a sudden herniation of the spinal canal of nucleus of the disc. This can cause intense back pain arching back, weakness of the rear limbs and lameness of the hind limbs. It could be accompanied by incontinence, weakness, or incoordination. If the spinal cord becomes compressed and dies, then your dog will be totally paralyzed. They may not even be able to walk on their rear legs.
The development of IVDD type II is more gradual and generally occurs in older dogs. Normal wear and tear causes the annulus fibers to expand with fluid. This leads to herniation and compression of the spine. This type of IVDD isn't triggered by trauma or intense exercise, as is the case with Type I. The symptoms include a lack of interest or inability to turn the head.