Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds are at their prime between the ages of 2 and 6 years old. The German Shepherd is at its best in terms of physical and mental sharpness.
They are at greater risk for illnesses of the musculoskeletal system and other health conditions that can affect their lifespan.
German Shepherds of the working line usually lead more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet high in nutrients to sustain their active lifestyles and exercise.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds are susceptible to various health issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and Cushing's disease. Understanding these issues and taking proper steps to prevent or treat them will allow your dog to live a longer and healthier life. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper diet, and regular exercise are the most important factors to a healthy and happy large breed.
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 between 80% and 85% of cases, the tumor is on the pituitary gland, which is a pea-sized, sized organ located at the base of the brain. Around 15% of the cases the tumor is situated on the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys.
When a pet has Cushing's, it becomes more active and consumes more food than usual. Cushing's can also trigger increased thirst and urination. This means that the pet needs to drink more water and take frequent breaks to urinate. Hair loss, a bloated appearance, and lethargy are also signs of the condition.
A veterinarian can diagnose the disorder by drawing blood and performing an adrenocorticotropic stimulation test. This test involves injecting the patient with ACTH and analyzing his adrenal response. The results will show the degree to which his cortisol levels are.
If a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's disease, he needs 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 medicated, most dogs with this condition have normal lives. The condition could be fatal, however, when it isn't treated and detected early enough.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds with epilepsy that is properly diagnosed and treated can live a long and healthy life. Uncontrolled seizures can cause a dog die from oxygen deprivation or a traumatic injury. Epilepsy that is not treated properly can lead to depression or a lack of appetite or drink, which can rapidly lead to death.
The impact of epilepsy on German Shepherds can be influenced by how the condition is controlled by the owner. A dog owner who is able to closely keep track of the dog's medication, devise appropriate strategies to manage seizures and establish 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 diseases. If left untreated, this condition could cause severe damage to the gums and teeth, and even lead to infection in other organs such as the kidneys, the liver and the heart. Regular dental visits for dogs can decrease the chance of developing this condition.
Shepherds are at a much higher risk of bloat than other breeds because of their chests that are narrow and deep. This stomach condition is dangerous and can occur when the intestines twist and become filled with gas, cutting off blood flow to the stomach and the spleen. If not treated promptly the condition could be fatal in less than half an hour. If your Shepherd exhibits signs of bloat, such as vomiting or retching with little or no food coming in or an overly large stomach, or lying in a prayer posture (front feet down, rear end up) Take them to the emergency vet immediately.
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 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 comprise the lower forelimb). The three bones have to fit together perfectly to withstand the rigors of daily movement. If they don't, a condition called elbow dysplasia is created. It's the leading cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs.
In certain instances the cartilage between the bones may deteriorate and cause swelling, pain and lameness. The damage is not irreparable therefore early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
The first signs of the disease in a dog are a mild or intermittent limp, mainly following exercise or upon getting up from a sitting 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. These include Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP), Osteochondrosis on the Humeral Condyle (OCH), and the Ununited Aconeal Process (UAP). Each of these conditions can be seen either on the elbows of both elbows.
Currently, the best way to prevent this issue is to screen breeding animals for elbow and hip issues. The disease can still be present despite screenings. Entzückende Scäferhund Welpen is to only breed dogs from parents that are found to have healthy elbows. This will prevent the genes for elbow dysplasia from being passed on to offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy, an illness of the nervous system that affects German Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness of the hind legs, is a variant of Degenerative Myelopathy. The signs of DM usually manifest in older dogs and may progress to paralysis. It is thought to be the canine equivalent of amyotrophic lateral degeneration (Lou Gehrig's disease). It is unclear why some dogs with this condition develop it, while others do not despite being genetically predisposed.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be managed with medication, however the condition progresses and can cause paralysis in the forelimbs. Some dogs can endure for months or years with a high standard of life, but it is not uncommon for owners to elect to end the life of their pet when they are incapable of standing or walking 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 with similar clinical signs, and asks for blood samples to test the genetic mutation that causes with this condition. A sample of cerebrospinal fluid will also be collected to enable analysis and the exclusion of other diseases. Neurologists may recommend MRI imaging with our advanced diagnostic imaging service. This will allow your vet to determine the regions 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 aid in slowing the progression of the disease.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are prone to certain health issues that can affect their lifespan. Understanding these conditions and how they affect your dog will aid you in taking preventative measures to help ensure their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is when the outside or inside of the spinal disk "donut" does not stay where it is. Each disk has a strong fibrous outer ring called an annulus fibrousus, and an uncompressive nucleus pulposus within that absorbs the impact. If the disk is damaged, the soft nucleus could hit the spinal cord with great force and cause severe pain, weakness, or even paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative disorder however, sudden trauma can cause herniation.
Type I of IVDD is associated with the sudden herniation of the disc's nucleus into the spinal canal. It causes intense pain, back pain and back arching and lower back, weakness in the rear limbs and hind-limb lameness. This condition can also cause the inability to walk, incontinence and weakness. If the spinal cord gets compressed and dies, your dog will become completely paralyzed, and may be unable to use their rear legs in any way.
Type II IVDD typically occurs in dogs that are older. It's caused by normal "wear and tear" which results in the annulus fibers that are weakening swelling with fluid, leading to herniation and compression of the spinal cord. 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.