A Peek Into German Shepherd Life Expectancy's Secrets Of German Shepherd Life Expectancy
Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds are in their peak between 2 and 6 years old. They're at their strongest in terms of physical fitness and mental sharpness.
Their size puts them at a greater risk of developing cancer, muscle and joint issues, and other health conditions that may affect their lifespan.
German Shepherds from the working line usually lead more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet that is rich in nutrients to support their high levels of activity and exercise.
Entzückende Schäferhund Welpen are prone to a variety of health issues that include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy and Cushing's disease. Knowing these issues and taking correct steps to prevent or manage them can help your dog live a longer and healthier life. Regular visits to the vet, good diet and regular 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. The condition is usually caused by a tumor that has formed on the pituitary gland or on one of the adrenal glands. In 80% to 90% of cases, the tumor develops on the pituitary, which is a tiny organ located near the base of brain. In about 15% of cases the tumor is located on one of the adrenal glands, which are located on the top of the kidneys.
Cushing's disease causes pets to be more active and consume more food than normal. Cushing's also causes an increase in thirst and urination, which means the pet will need to drink more water and frequent the outside for bathroom breaks. Loss of hair, a potbelly appearance, and a lack of energy are other symptoms of the disease.
A doctor can diagnose this condition 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 reveal how high or low the patient's cortisol level is.
If a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's, he will need medication for the duration of his life. This medication will control his symptoms and slow down the growth of the tumour. Most dogs with this condition are able to live normal lives when they are properly medicated and monitored. However, the condition could be fatal if it is not diagnosed and treated early.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds suffering from epilepsy that is treated and diagnosed correctly can live an extended and healthy life. Uncontrolled seizures can cause a dog die from oxygen deprivation or a traumatic injury. Untreated epilepsy may also result in depression or a lack of appetite or drink, which can quickly be fatal.
The way the owner manages the situation can influence the impact of epilepsy in German Shepherds. The owners who are able to be vigilant about their dog's medication and devise strategies to manage seizures, as well as build an effective network of support, are more likely to prolong their pet's lifespan.
Like other breeds of dogs German Shepherds are also susceptible to suffering from dental problems. Left untreated, this problem can cause serious damage to the teeth and gums and may cause infections in other areas of the body, such as the liver, kidneys, and the heart. Regular dental visits for dogs can lower the chance of developing this condition.
The chests that are deep in the Shepherd breed make them more susceptible to bloating. This stomach-related disorder can be deadly when the intestines are twisted inwards, releasing 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 it is not treated immediately. If your dog shows signs of bloat, such as retching or heaving with no food coming up or an abdominal bulge, or lying in a prayer position (front feet down, rear end up), take your pet to the emergency vet right away.
German Shepherds that experience the condition of bloat are more at risk of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. This is why it's important to keep your dog's health up to date with veterinary visits and preventative care.
Elbow Dysplasia
The elbow is an articulation between 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 need to fit perfectly to allow for a lifetime of motion. When they don't, a condition referred to as elbow dysplasia is created. It's the most frequent cause of lameness in front legs (limping) in dogs.
In certain cases of the disease the cartilage between bones erodes and leads to pain, swelling and lameness. This damage is not reversible therefore 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, a dog's range of motion in the elbow decreases, and there may 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 Ununited Aconeal Process (UAP). Each of these conditions has its own distinct appearance on x-rays and can be found in one or both elbows.
A thorough screening of the elbow and hip of breeding animals is currently the best bet to prevent these problems. These conditions can still develop despite screening. The most effective method is to breed only with dogs that come from parents who are found to have healthy elbows. This will prevent the genes for elbow dysplasia from being passed on to 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 progress to paralysis. The condition is considered the canine equivalent to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease). Despite being genetically predisposed this condition, it's not known why some dogs develop the disease while others don't.
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for DM. Symptoms may be managed by medication, but the condition is progressive and eventually leads to paralysis of the forelimbs too. Some dogs can endure for months or years with a good quality of life, however it is typical for owners to elect euthanasia once the dog becomes incapable of standing or walking on their own.
Your veterinarian will conduct a neurological exam and take a detailed medical history to diagnose DM. The neurologist will search for other diseases with similar clinical signs and take blood samples to check for the genetic mutations that are associated with this condition. The neurologist will also collect cerebrospinal fluid samples to allow for analysis and to rule out other illnesses. The neurologists will likely suggest MRI imaging using our advanced diagnostic imaging services. This will allow your vet to identify areas of the spine that are affected by DM and monitor the progression of the disease. Physical rehabilitation therapy can also be beneficial for DM sufferers and slow down the progression of the condition.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are at risk of certain health issues that could affect their lifespan. Recognizing these conditions and understanding how they impact your dog will assist you in taking preventative measures to ensure their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is when the inside or outside of the spinal disk "donut" does not stay where it is. Each disk is surrounded by an outer fibrous ring known as an annulus. It also has an annulus with a soft nucleus that absorbs impact. If the nucleus becomes herniated, it can cause severe pain and even paralysis. IVDD is usually a degenerative process, although the sudden trauma can cause herniation in dogs with weak disks.
Type I of IVDD is associated with the sudden insertion of the disc's nucleus material into the spinal canal. It results in severe back pain and back arching, weakness in the rear limbs and hind-limb lameness. It can also be accompanied with incontinence, weakness, and incoordination. If the spinal cord becomes compressed and dies then your dog will be totally crippled. They may not even be able to move their rear legs.
The development of IVDD type II is more gradual and typically occurs in older dogs. Normal wear and tear causes annulus fibers to expand with fluid. This causes compression and herniation of the spine. This type of IVDD isn't triggered either by trauma or heavy exercise, as is the case with Type I. The symptoms include a reluctance to turn the head or back, an arched back and an appearance of weak or wobbly on the back legs.