The Secret Life Of German Shepherd Life Expectancy

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 large size makes them at a higher chance of developing cancer, muscle and joint issues, and other health conditions that can affect their lifespan.

German Shepherds in the working line usually lead more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet high in nutrients to help them maintain 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 susceptible to Cushing’s Disease, degenerative myelopathy and hip dysplasia. Understanding these issues and taking the correct steps to prevent or manage them can help your dog live longer. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper diet, and regular exercise are the keys 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 in the adrenal glands, or pituitary glands, is the most common reason for the condition. In 80% to 85percent of cases, the tumor is located on the pituitary, which is a tiny organ located close to the brain’s base. About 15 percent of the time, the tumor is located on the adrenal glands that are located above the kidneys.

When a pet has Cushing’s disease, it becomes more active and consumes more food than usual. The condition can also cause increased thirst and urination, so the pet will need to drink more water and be outside more often to take a break from the toilet. Hair loss, a pot-bellied appearance, and lethargy are other signs of the condition.

A veterinarian can diagnose the disorder by drawing blood and conducting an adrenocorticotropic stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and analyzing their adrenal response. The results indicate how high or low his cortisol levels are.

When a dog is diagnosed with Cushing’s disease, he needs medication for the duration of his life. The medication will manage his symptoms and slow the growth of the cancer. If they are monitored properly and treated, most dogs with this condition can have normal lives. However, the condition may be fatal if not detected and treated in the early stages.

Epilepsy

German Shepherds suffering from epilepsy who is properly diagnosed and entzückendescäferhundwelpen treated can live a long and healthy life. Uncontrolled seizures can cause a dog to die from oxygen deprivation or an injury. Untreated epilepsy can also cause depression or an inability to eat or drink, which could rapidly lead to death.

How the owner manages the situation can have an impact on the effects of epilepsy in German Shepherds. A dog owner who is able to closely keep track of the dog’s medication, develop appropriate strategies for managing seizures and build a strong support network is more likely to extend their pet’s lifespan.

As with other breeds of dog German Shepherds, too, suffer from dental problems. If not treated, this condition may cause serious damage to gums and teeth, and even lead to infections in other organs, like kidneys, the liver, and the heart. Regular dental hygiene for dogs can lower the risk of this issue.

Shepherds are at a much more bloat-prone risk than many other breeds, because of their chests that are narrow and deep. This stomach-related disorder can be deadly when the intestines are twisted, filling with gas and cutting off the blood flow to the stomach or the spleen. If not addressed immediately the condition could be deadly in as little as half an hour. If your dog shows signs of bloat, like retching or heaving without food coming in, an enlarged abdomen or lying in a prayer posture (front feet down and back end up), take them to the emergency vet immediately.

German Shepherds who suffer from bloat are at a higher risk of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. It is important to be 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 must be perfectly aligned for a lifetime of movement. If they don’t connect perfectly, elbow dysplasia can occur. It’s the most frequent cause of lameness in front legs (limping) in dogs.

In some cases of the disease the cartilage between the bones erodes and leads to pain, swelling and lameness. The damage is irreparable therefore early diagnosis and treatment is crucial.

The earliest signs of the disease in a dog are a mild or intermittent limp, mainly following exercise or upon getting up from a seated position. As the disease advances, the dog’s elbow range of motion decreases. There may also be fluid in the joint.

There are three main types of elbow dysplasia: Fragmented Coronoid Process, Osteochondrosis of the Humeral Condyle, and Ununited Anconeal Process. Each of these conditions can be observed on one or both elbows.

Currently, the best way to prevent this issue is to screen breeding animals for elbow and hip problems. The disease can still be present despite screenings. The most effective approach is to breed only with dogs from parents that have been proven to have good elbows. This will stop the genetics for elbow dysplasia being passed onto offspring.

Degenerative Myelopathy

Degenerative Myelopathy is an illness of the nervous system that gradually affects the spinal cord of German Shepherd dogs and causes weakness in the hind legs. The symptoms of DM typically surface in older dogs and eventually progress to paralysis. The condition is considered to be the canine version of Lou Gehrig’s disease (amyotrophic lateral-sclerosis). Although dogs are genetically predisposed to this disease, it is not known why some dogs develop the disease while others don’t.

Unfortunately there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be treated through medication, however the condition is progressive and leads to paralysis in the forelimbs. Some dogs can live for months or even years with a high standard of life, however it is typical for owners to elect to end the life of their pet when they are unable to stand or walk on their own.

Your doctor will conduct an examination for neurological disorders and will create an accurate medical record to determine DM. The neurologist will check for other diseases that show similar clinical signs and request blood samples to test for the genetic mutation that is associated with this disorder. The neurologist may also request cerebrospinal fluid samples to allow for analysis and to rule out other diseases. The neurologist may recommend MRI imaging using our advanced diagnostic imaging services. This will allow your vet to pinpoint areas of the spine that are affected by DM and track 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 can be prone to health issues that may affect their life expectancy. Understanding these conditions and how they affect your dog can assist you in taking preventative measures that support their longevity.

Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the “doughnut” of the spinal disc doesn’t stay in its proper place. Each disk is made of a fibrous outer ring, called an annulus fibrousus, 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 a degenerative condition, but sudden trauma can cause herniation.

Type I of IVDD is ascribed with the sudden rupture of the disc’s nucleus material into the spinal canal. It causes intense pain, back pain, arching of the back and lower back, weakness in the limbs of the rear, and hind-limb lameness. It may also be accompanied by weakness, incontinence, and incoordination. If the spinal cord becomes compressed and dies, then your dog will become completely disabled. They might not even be able to use their rear legs.

Type II IVDD typically occurs in dogs that are older. Normal wear and tear causes the annulus fibers to swell with fluid. This causes compression and herniation of spine. This type of IVDD isn’t triggered either by trauma or heavy exercise, which is not the case for Type I. Signs include reluctance to turn the head, an arched back, and an appearance of weak or wobbly on the rear legs.