15 Things You've Never Known About German Shepherd Life Expectancy
Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds reach their peak between ages 2 and 6. They're at their strongest in terms of physical fitness and mental sharpness.
Their large size puts them at a greater risk of developing cancer muscular and skeletal issues, as well as other health issues that could impact lifespan.
German Shepherds in the working line typically lead more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet rich in nutrients to meet their active lifestyle and exercise demands.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds can suffer from various health issues, including elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and. They also are susceptible to Cushing's Disease, degenerative myelopathy, and hip dysplasia. Understanding these issues and taking appropriate steps to prevent or manage them can allow your dog to live a longer and healthier life. Regular veterinary visits, proper nutrition and daily exercise will 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 cause of the disease. In 80 to 85% of cases, the tumor is located on the pituitary, a small organ located close to the brain's base. In around 15 percent 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 consume more food than usual. The condition can also cause increased thirst and urination, which means the pet will need to drink more fluids and be outside more often to take a break from the toilet. Hair loss, a pot-bellied appearance, and lethargy are also signs of the disease.
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 then measuring the adrenal response. The results reveal how high or low the cortisol level of the patient is.
Once a dog has been diagnosed with Cushing's, they will require medication for the duration of his life. The medication will help control his symptoms and slow down the growth of the tumor. 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 not detected and treated in the early stages.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds that are properly diagnosed and treated for epilepsy may be healthy and enjoy a happy life. Uncontrolled seizures can cause a dog to die from oxygen deprivation or a traumatic injury. Untreated epilepsy can also cause depression, or the inability to eat or drink.
The effects of epilepsy on German Shepherds could be influenced by how the condition is handled by the owner. Owners who can closely monitor their dog's medication, and develop seizure management techniques and establish an extensive network of support are more likely to prolong their pet's lifespan.
Like altdeutscher schäferhund kaufen of dogs German Shepherds are also susceptible to suffering from dental diseases. Untreated, this condition can cause serious damage to the gums and teeth and can lead to infection in other organs such as the kidneys, the liver and the heart. Dogs that receive regular professional dental treatment are less susceptible to this problem.
Shepherds are at a much more bloat-prone risk than other breeds thanks to their deep, narrow chests. This stomach-related disorder can be deadly when the intestines twitch to fill with gas, cutting off blood flow to the stomach or the spleen. If not addressed immediately this condition can become fatal in less than 30 minutes. If your Shepherd shows signs of bloat, like retching or heaving without food coming up, an enlarged abdomen or lying in a prayer posture (front feet down and the rear end up) then take them to an emergency vet immediately.
German Shepherds that experience the condition of bloat are more at risk of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. It is crucial 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 fit together perfectly for a lifetime of motion. If they do not, a condition known as elbow dysplasia can develop. It's the leading cause of lameness in front legs (limping) in dogs.
In some cases the cartilage between the bones may deteriorate which can cause pain, swelling and numbness. The damage is irreparable, so it is important to recognize and treat the condition as early as possible.
The first signs of the disease in dogs include the appearance of a slight limp or an intermittent one, particularly after exercise or upon getting up from a sitting position. As the disease progresses, the dog's elbow 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 xrays and could be seen in one or both elbows.
Currently, the best way to avoid this issue is to test breeding animals for elbow and hip problems. But, despite screenings these conditions can still happen. The most effective strategy is to breed only with dogs whose parents have been shown to have good elbows. This will stop the genetics for elbow dysplasia being passed to offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy, a neurological disorder that affects German Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness of the hind legs, is a type of Degenerative Myelopathy. The symptoms of DM usually manifest in older dogs and may develop into paralysis. The condition is considered the canine equivalent to amyotrophic lateral degeneration (Lou Gehrig's disease). It isn't known the reason why some dogs suffering from this disease get it, and others don't, despite being genetically predisposed.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be controlled through medication, however the condition is progressive and causes paralysis of the forelimbs. Some dogs are able to live for months or years with a good quality of life, however it is not uncommon for owners to choose euthanasia once the dog becomes in a position where they are unable to walk or stand on their own.
To diagnose DM, your vet will take a detailed medical history and then conduct an examination of the neurological system. The neurologist will look for other diseases that have similar clinical signs, and will request blood samples to test the genetic mutations that cause this disease. The neurologist will also obtain cerebrospinal fluid samples to allow for analysis and to exclude other diseases. The neurologist will likely recommend MRI imaging using our advanced diagnostic imaging services. This will enable your vet to identify areas of the spine that are affected with DM and monitor the progression of the disease. Additionally physical rehabilitation therapy is frequently beneficial for DM patients and can help to slow the progression of the disease.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are susceptible to certain health issues that may impact their life expectancy. Knowing about these conditions and how they affect your dog will assist 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" doesn't stay where it is. Each disk has an outer fibrous ring that is known as an annulus. It also has a soft nucleus which absorbs the impact. When herniated, the softer nucleus could hit the spinal cord with tremendous force, causing severe pain, weakness or even paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative disease however, sudden trauma could cause herniation.
Type I of IVDD is associated with the sudden rupture of the disc's nucleus material into the spinal canal. This results in intense back pain, arching of the back and lower back, weakness in the rear limbs and hind-limb lameness. It could be accompanied by weakness, incontinence, and incoordination. If the spinal cord gets compressed and dies it will cause your dog to become completely paralyzed, often being unable to move their rear legs at all.
Type II IVDD is typically seen in dogs that are older. Normal wear and tear causes the annulus fibers to swell with fluid. This causes compression and herniation of spine. Contrary to Type I IVDD, this form is not triggered by trauma or exercise. It is characterized by a refusal to turn the head, an arched back, and a walk that appears weak or wobbly on the back legs.