Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds reach their peak between the ages 2 and 6. They're at their peak in terms of physical fitness and mental toughness.
Their large size puts them at a greater chance of developing cancer, musculoskeletal issues, and other health issues that could have a negative impact on their lives.
Working line German Shepherds usually have more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet high in nutrients to help them maintain their high levels of activity and exercise.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds are susceptible to various health issues such as hip dysplasia elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and Cushing's disease. Knowing these conditions and taking the correct steps to prevent or treat them can allow your dog to have a longer lifespan. 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 typically caused by a tumor on the pituitary gland or on one of the adrenal glands. In between 80% and 85percent of cases, the tumor is in 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 located on the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys.
Cushing's disease causes pets be more active and eat more than usual. The condition also causes increased thirst and urination. As a result, the pet has to drink more water and frequent the outside to take a break from the toilet. Other signs of the condition include hair loss as well as a potbelly appearance, and lethargy.
A veterinarian can identify the disorder by drawing blood and performing an adrenocorticotropic hormonal stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and measuring their adrenal response. The results will show how high or low the cortisol level of the patient is.
Once a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's Disease, he needs medication for the rest his life. The medication will help control his symptoms and slow the growth of the tumor. Most dogs suffering from this disease are able to live normal lives when they are properly treated and monitored. However, the condition can be fatal if not detected and treated in the early stages.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds suffering from epilepsy who is properly diagnosed and treated can live an extended and healthy life. However, a dog who has seizures that are uncontrolled could be killed due to oxygen deficiency or injury during seizures. Epilepsy that is not treated properly can lead to depression, or the inability to eat and drink.
The effects of epilepsy on German Shepherds can be affected by the way in which the condition is controlled by the owner. A pet owner who is able to monitor the dog's medication, create appropriate strategies for managing seizures and establish a solid support network is more likely to extend the life span of their pet.
Like other dog breeds German Shepherds, too, suffer from dental diseases. If left untreated, this condition could cause serious damage to gums and teeth, and even lead to infection in other organs like the kidneys, liver, and the heart. Regular dental care for dogs can decrease the chance of developing this condition.
The deep chests of the Shepherd breed make them more prone to bloat. This stomach condition is dangerous and can occur when the intestines twitch and become filled with gas, cutting off blood flow to the stomach and spleen. If not addressed immediately the condition could be fatal in just half an hour. If your Shepherd shows signs of bloat, for example vomiting or retching with no food coming up or an abdominal bulge, or lying in a prayer posture (front feet down and back end up), take them to an emergency vet right away.
German Shepherds who experience Bloat are at a higher risk of developing hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy than other breeds. It is crucial to stay on top of your dog's veterinarian treatment and preventative measures.
Elbow Dysplasia
The elbow is a hinge between the humerus (the long bone of the upper forelimb), and the radius and ulna, (the two bones of 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 develops. It's the most common reason why dogs are lame in their front legs.
In certain cases of the disease the cartilage between the bones begins to degrade, causing pain, swelling, and lameness. This damage is not reversible, so early diagnosis and treatment is crucial.
The first signs of this condition in dogs are a mild limp or an intermittent one, especially after exercise or upon getting up from a sitting position. As the disease progresses the dog's elbow's range of motion decreases. There could also be fluid in the joint.
There are three kinds of elbow dysplasia. These include the Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP), Osteochondrosis on the Humeral Condyle (OCH), and Ununited Aconeal Processing (UAP). Each of these conditions has its own distinct appearance on x-rays and may be present in one or both elbows.
Screening for elbows and hips of breeding animals is the best way to prevent these problems. These conditions can still develop even after screening. The most effective strategy is to breed only with dogs that come from parents who are found to have good elbows. This will prevent the genes for elbow dysplasia being passed onto offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy is a neurological disease that slowly affects the spinal cord of German Shepherd dogs and causes weakness in the hind legs. DM symptoms typically manifest in older dogs and progress to paralysis. The condition is regarded as the canine equivalent of amyotrophic lateral syndrome (Lou Gehrig's disease). It is not known the reason why some dogs suffering from this disease develop it and others do not despite being genetically predisposed.
Unfortunately there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be managed with medication, however the condition is progressive and can cause paralysis in the forelimbs. Some dogs can live for many months or even years with a high quality of life. However, it is common that owners choose to kill their pet if they are unable to walk or stand on its own.
Your vet will perform an examination of the neurological system and create an accurate medical history to diagnose DM. The neurologist looks for other diseases with similar symptoms, and will request blood samples to test the genetic mutation associated with the disease. The neurologist will also collect a sample of cerebrospinal liquid to enable analysis and to exclude other diseases. The neurologist may recommend MRI imaging using our advanced diagnostic imaging services. This will enable your vet to determine the areas of the spinal cord affected by DM and track the progression of the disease over time. In addition, physical rehabilitation therapy can be beneficial for DM patients and can help slow the progression of the disease.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds can be prone to health issues that may affect their life expectancy. Knowing these conditions and how they impact your dog will aid you in taking preventative steps that supports their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the "doughnut" of the spinal disc does not stay in its proper place. Each disk is made of a fibrous outer ring, called an annulus fibrosus, and an inner nucleus pulposus that is not compressible which absorbs impact. When the nucleus is herniated it can cause severe pain and paralysis. IVDD is typically a degenerative process, although sudden trauma can lead to herniation in dogs with weak disks.
Type I IVDD is characterized by a sudden herniation of the spinal canal of disc's nucleus. resource for this article can cause severe pain in the back arching back, weakness of the limbs in the rear and lameness in the hind limbs. This condition can also result in weakness, incontinence and incoordination. If the spinal chord becomes compressed and dies, your dog will become completely disabled. They might not even be able to move their rear legs.
Type II IVDD usually occurs in dogs that are older. It's caused by normal "wear and tear" that leads to the weakened annulus fibers swelling with fluid, leading to herniation and compression of the spinal cord. Contrary to Type I IVDD, this form is not triggered by heavy exercise or trauma. Signs include a reluctance or inability to turn the head.