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Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds are at their peak between 2 and 6 years old. They are at their best in terms of physical fitness and mental sharpness.
Their size makes them at a higher risk of developing cancer, muscle and joint issues, and other health conditions that may have a negative impact on their lives.
German Shepherds in the working line usually lead more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet high in nutrients to support their active lifestyles and exercise.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds are susceptible to numerous health issues like hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. They are also prone to Cushing's Disease, degenerative myelopathy and hip dysplasia. Understanding these ailments and taking the appropriate steps to prevent or treat them can allow your dog to live longer. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper nutrition, and daily 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. A tumor of the adrenal glands or pituitary glands is the most frequent cause of the disease. In 80 to 85percent of cases, the tumor develops on the pituitary gland, a tiny organ located close to the brain's base. Around 15% of the instances the tumor is located on the adrenal glands that are located above the kidneys.
If a pet suffers from Cushing's disease, it becomes more active and eats more frequently than normal. The condition also causes increased thirst and urination. As a result, the pet will need to drink more fluids and go outside more often for bathroom breaks. Loss of hair, a potbelly appearance, and lethargy are other symptoms of the disease.
A doctor can diagnose this condition by drawing blood, and then executing the adrenocorticotropic stimulation test. This test involves injecting the patient with ACTH and analyzing his 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 disease, he will need medication for the duration of his life. The medication will manage his symptoms and slow down the growth of the tumor. Most dogs with 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 suffering from epilepsy who is properly treated and diagnosed can live a long and healthy existence. Uncontrolled seizures can cause a dog die due to oxygen deprivation, or even a serious injury. Untreated epilepsy can also lead to depression, or the inability to eat or drink.
The impact of epilepsy in German Shepherds can be affected by the way in which the condition is controlled by the owner. A dog owner who is able to closely check the dog's medication, develop appropriate strategies for managing seizures and establish a solid support network is more likely to extend their pet's lifespan.
Like other breeds of dogs 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, like the kidneys, the liver, and the heart. Regular dental hygiene for dogs can decrease the risk of this problem.
The deep chests of the Shepherd breed makes them more prone to bloat. This dangerous stomach disorder occurs when the intestines turn and expand with gas, cutting off blood flow to the stomach and the spleen. If not treated promptly, this condition can be fatal in just half an hour. If your Shepherd exhibits signs of bloat, such as vomiting or retching without food coming up, an enlarged abdomen or lying in a prayer position (front feet down, rear end up), take your pet to the emergency vet right away.
German Shepherds who suffer from the condition of bloat are more at chance of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. It is crucial to stay on top of your dog's medical treatment and preventative measures.
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 make up the lower forelimb). The three bones need to be perfectly aligned for a lifetime of motion. When they don't, a condition referred to as elbow dysplasia is created. It's the most common reason why dogs are weak in their front legs.
In certain cases of the disease the cartilage between bones erodes and leads to swelling, pain and lameness. The damage is irreparable therefore it is crucial to diagnose and treat the condition early.
The first indications of the disease in a dog are a slight or intermittent limp, mainly after exercise or when getting up from a seated position. As the disease progresses, a dog's range of motion at the elbow decreases and there could be fluid inside the joint.
There are three major types of elbow dysplasia: Fragmented Coronoid Process, Osteochondrosis of the Humeral Condyle, and Ununited Anconeal Process. Each of these conditions has a unique appearance on x-rays and can be present in one or both elbows.
Screening for elbows and hips of breeding animals is the best option to avoid these issues. These diseases can still occur despite screening. Breeding only with dogs whose elbows have been proven healthy is the most effective strategy. This will stop the genetics for elbow dysplasia being passed to offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy, an autoimmune disorder that affects German Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness in the hind legs, is a variant of Degenerative Myelopathy. The symptoms of DM usually manifest in older dogs and eventually progress to paralysis. The condition is thought to be a canine form of Lou Gehrig's Disease (amyotrophic lateral-sclerosis). It isn't known the reason why some dogs suffering from this disease develop it and others don't despite being genetically predisposed.
Unfortunately there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be controlled by medication, but the condition can progress and causes paralysis of the forelimbs. Certain dogs can last for a number of months or even years with a good quality of life. However, it is common for owners to opt for the option of euthanasia if their dog is incapable of standing or walking on its own.
Your doctor will conduct a neurological exam and take a detailed medical history to diagnose DM. The neurologist will search for other diseases that show similar clinical signs and will request blood samples to test for the genetic mutation associated with this disorder. The neurologist may also request 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 progress of the disease. In addition, physical rehabilitation therapy is often beneficial for DM patients and can help slow the progression of the disease.
deutsche schäferhundwelpen are prone to health problems that can impact their lifespan. Recognizing these conditions and understanding how they impact your dog will help you take preventative action to ensure their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is when the outer or inner of the spinal disk "donut" does not stay where it belongs. Each disk has an outer fibrous ring called an annulus, and an annulus with a soft nucleus that absorbs impact. If it is ruptured, the softer nucleus can hit the spinal cord with great force and cause severe pain, weakness, or paralysis. IVDD is typically an autoimmune process, but sudden trauma can lead to herniation in dogs with weak disks.
Type I IVDD is defined by a sudden rupture into the spinal canal that is located in the disc's nucleus. This can cause severe pain in the back arching back, a weakness of the rear limbs, and lameness in the hind limbs. It could also be accompanied by incontinence, weakness, 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 usually occurs in older dogs. It's the result of normal "wear and tear" that leads to the annulus fibers that are weakening expanding with fluid, leading to herniation, and then compression of the spinal cord. In contrast to Type I IVDD, this form isn't caused by trauma or exercise. Signs include a reluctance or inability to turn the head.