Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds are in their peak between 2 and 6 years old. The German Shepherd is at its best in terms of physical and mental sharpness.
They are at a higher risk for cancer, musculoskeletal problems, and other health conditions which can affect their lifespan.
Working line German Shepherds typically have more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a nutritious diet to help them meet their high activity levels and exercise demands.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds can suffer from several health conditions including elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and. They are also susceptible to Cushing's Disease, degenerative myelopathy and hip dysplasia. Understanding these conditions and taking the right steps to treat or prevent them can allow your dog to live longer. 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. A tumor of the adrenal glands, or pituitary glands, is the most frequent reason for the condition. In 80% to 90% of cases, the tumor occurs on the pituitary gland, a small organ that is located close to the base of the brain. In approximately 15 percent of cases, the tumor is on one of the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys.
When a pet has Cushing's, it becomes more active and eats more frequently than normal. The condition can also cause increased thirst and urination, so the pet needs to drink more water and go outside more often for potty breaks. Other symptoms of the condition include hair loss as well as a potbelly appearance, and a lack of energy.
A vet can diagnose this disorder by drawing blood and then executing the adrenocorticotropic stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and measuring their adrenal response. The results reveal how high or low the cortisol level of the patient is.
Once a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's Disease, it will require medication to rest his life. This medication will stop the growth of the tumor and keep the symptoms under control. Most dogs with this condition can live normal lives if they are properly medicated 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 treated and diagnosed can live an extended and healthy life. However, a dog that has seizures that are uncontrolled could die due to oxygen starvation or injury during seizures. Untreated epilepsy may also cause depression or an inability to eat or drink, which can quickly be fatal.
The impact of epilepsy on German Shepherds can be influenced by how the condition is handled by the owner. king shepherd kaufen who are able to closely monitor their dog's medication and develop methods to manage seizures, as well as build an extensive network of support, are more likely to extend the pet's life.
Like all breeds of dogs, German Shepherds are prone to suffering from dental diseases. If not treated, this condition could cause irreparable damage to teeth and gums, and could cause infections in other parts of the body, like the liver, kidneys, and heart. Dogs who receive regular dental care are less prone to this issue.
Shepherds are at a much higher risk of bloat than many other breeds, thanks to their deep, narrow chests. This dangerous stomach disorder occurs when the intestines twist and expand with gas, severing blood flow to the stomach and the spleen. This condition can cause death in less than 30 minutes if it is not treated immediately. If your Shepherd exhibits signs of bloat, for example retching or heaving with little or no food coming in or an abdominal bulge, or lying in a prayer posture (front feet down, rear end up) then take them 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 essential to stay on top of your dog's medical care and preventative measures.
Elbow Dysplasia
The elbow is an articulation between the humerus, (the long bone of the upper forelimb) and the ulna and radius, (the two bones of the lower forelimb). The three bones have to be perfectly aligned to allow for continuous movement. If they don't fit together perfectly, elbow dysplasia can occur. It's the most frequent reason why dogs are weak in their front legs.
In some cases of the disease, the cartilage between bones erodes and leads to swelling, pain and lameness. This damage is not reversible and early diagnosis and treatment are important.
The first signs of this disease in dogs are a mild limp or intermittent one, particularly after exercise or when getting up from a seated position. As the disease progresses, the dog's range-of-motion in the elbow decreases and there could be fluid in 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 its own distinct appearance on x-rays and may be seen in both elbows or one of them.
The best method currently to prevent this problem is to screen breeding animals for hip and elbow issues. These diseases can still occur despite screenings. The most effective strategy is to breed only with dogs whose parents have been proven to have good elbows. This will ensure that the genes responsible for elbow dysplasia do not pass onto 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. The signs of DM typically surface in older dogs, and then become paralyzed. The condition is considered to be the canine version of Lou Gehrig's Disease (amyotrophic lateral-sclerosis). Although dogs are genetically predisposed to this condition, it's not known why some dogs develop the disease and others do not.
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for DM. The symptoms can be treated by medication, but the disease progresses and eventually leads to paralysis of the forelimbs, too. Certain dogs can live for many months or even years with good quality of life. However, it's typical for owners to choose the option of euthanasia if their dog is incapable of standing or walking on its own.
To determine if you have DM, your vet will take a detailed medical history and then conduct an examination of the brain. The neurologist looks for other illnesses that show similar clinical signs, and asks for blood samples to examine the genetic mutation that causes with the disease. A sample of cerebrospinal fluid will also be taken to enable analysis and to exclude other diseases. The neurologists may suggest MRI imaging with our advanced diagnostic imaging service. This will allow your vet to identify the regions of the spinal cord affected by DM and track the progression of the disease over time. In addition 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 prone to certain health issues that can affect their lifespan. Understanding these conditions and how they affect your dog will assist you in taking preventative measures that support their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the "doughnut" of the spinal disc does not remain in its correct position. Each disk has a tough fibrous outer ring, called an annulus fibrosus, and an uncompressive nucleus pulposus within that absorbs impact. If the nucleus becomes herniated, it can cause severe pain and a paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative disease, but sudden trauma could cause herniation.
Type I IVDD is characterized by a sudden rupture into the spinal canal of disc's nucleus. This can cause intense pain in the back arching back, a weakness of the rear limbs, and lameness in the hind limbs. This condition can also lead to the inability to walk, incontinence and weakness. If the spinal cord is compressed and dies the dog will be completely paralyzed and often not able to use their rear legs even.
Type II IVDD is typically seen in dogs that are older. Normal wear and tear causes the annulus fibers to expand with fluid. This leads to compression and herniation of the spine. Contrary to Type I IVDD, this type isn't triggered by heavy exercise or trauma. Signs include reluctance to turn the head or back, an arched back and a walk that appears weak or wobbly on the back legs.