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 makes them at a higher risk of developing cancer musculoskeletal issues, and other health conditions that may affect their lifespan.
German Shepherds of 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.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds are susceptible to a variety of health issues that include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and Cushing's disease. Understanding these issues and taking the correct steps to prevent or treat them can help your dog live a longer and healthier life. Regular veterinary visits, good nutrition, and regular exercise are the key to good health for this 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 approximately 80% to 85% of cases the tumor is located on the pituitary gland which is a pea-sized body located near the base of the brain. About 15% of the cases the tumor is situated on the adrenal glands which are located above the kidneys.
Cushing's disease can cause pets to be more active and consume more food than normal. Cushing's can also trigger more thirst and increased urination. This means that the pet needs to drink more fluids, and go outside for frequent breaks to urinate. Hair loss, a pot-bellied appearance, and lethargy are also signs of the illness.
A doctor can diagnose this condition 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 will show how high or low the patient's cortisol level is.
If a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's Disease, it is required to take medication for the rest his life. This medication will slow the growth of the tumor and keep the symptoms under control. The majority of dogs suffering from this condition can live normal lives if they are properly medicated and monitored. The condition can be fatal when it isn't treated and detected early enough.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds who are correctly diagnosed and treated for epilepsy can be healthy and enjoy a happy life. However, a dog who suffers from uncontrolled seizures may be killed due to oxygen deficiency or a traumatic injury that occurs during a seizure. Untreated epilepsy may also lead to depression, or the inability to eat and drink.
The effects of epilepsy on German Shepherds could be influenced by how the condition is handled by the owner. Owners who are able to closely monitor their dog's medication and develop strategies to manage seizures and create an extensive network of support will be more likely to extend the pet's life.
Like other dog breeds German Shepherds are also susceptible to suffering from dental problems. If not treated, this condition could cause irreparable damage to the gums and teeth and even result in infections in other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, liver and heart. Regular dental care for dogs can decrease the risk of this issue.
Shepherds are at a much more bloat-prone risk than other breeds due to their deep, narrow chests. This stomach-related disorder can be deadly if the intestines twist inwards, releasing gas and cutting off blood flow to the stomach or spleen. If not treated immediately this condition can become fatal in less than half an hour. If your Shepherd is showing symptoms of bloat like Heaving, retching, or an overly large stomach or is in a praying position (front feet are down, the rear is up) It is recommended to take them to an emergency vet as soon as you notice.
German Shepherds with bloat are at a greater risk of developing hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy than other breeds. deutscher schäferhund kaufen österreich is important to be on top of your dog's veterinary care and preventative measures.
Elbow Dysplasia
The elbow is a hinge between the humerus, (the long bone of 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. If they don't fit together properly, elbow dysplasia develops. It is the most common reason for dogs to be weak in their front legs.
In some cases of the disease the cartilage between the bones erodes and leads to swelling, pain, and lameness. The damage is irreparable therefore early diagnosis and treatment are important.
The first signs of the disease in dogs are a mild or intermittent limp, particularly after exercise or when getting up from a resting 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 major kinds of elbow dysplasia: Fragmented Coronoid Process, Osteochondrosis of the Humeral Condyle, and Ununited Anconeal Process. Each of these conditions can be found on both elbows or one of them.
Currently, the best way to prevent this problem is to test breeding animals for elbow and hip problems. However, despite screenings, these diseases can still occur. Breeding only dogs whose elbows have been proven to be healthy is the most effective method. This will ensure that the genes for elbow dysplasia don't pass onto offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy, a neurological disorder that affects German Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness in the hind legs, is a form of Degenerative Myelopathy. The symptoms of DM usually manifest in older dogs and eventually develop into paralysis. The condition is considered the canine equivalent of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease). It is not known why some dogs with this condition develop it, while others do not despite being genetically predisposed.
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for DM. The symptoms can be controlled with medication, however the condition can progress and causes paralysis of the forelimbs. Some dogs can live for months or years with a good quality of life, however it is not uncommon for owners to opt for to end the life of their pet when they are unable to stand or walk on their own.
To determine if you have DM, your vet will conduct a thorough medical history and perform an examination of the brain. The neurologist will look for other conditions that have similar clinical signs and take blood samples to check for the genetic mutation associated with this condition. The neurologist may also request cerebrospinal fluid samples to allow for analysis and to exclude other diseases. The neurologist will likely recommend MRI imaging using our advanced diagnostic imaging services. This will enable your vet to pinpoint areas of the spine that are affected by DM and monitor the progress of the disease. Physical rehabilitation therapy can be beneficial for DM sufferers and slow down the progression of the condition.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are prone to health issues that could impact their lifespan. Understanding these conditions and how they impact your dog will assist you in taking preventative measures that supports their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is when the outside or inside of the spinal disk "donut" isn't remain where it is. Each disk is made of a fibrous outer ring called an annulus fibrosus, and an inner nucleus pulposus that is not compressible that absorbs the impact. When the nucleus is herniated it can cause severe pain and paralysis. IVDD is usually a degenerative condition, however the sudden trauma can cause herniation in dogs with weak disks.
Type I of IVDD is associated with the sudden rupture of the disc's nucleus into the spinal canal. It results in intense back pain and back arching and weakness in the rear limbs, and hind-limb lameness. This condition can also cause the inability to walk, incontinence and weakness. If the spinal cord gets compressed and dies the dog will be completely paralyzed, often not able to use their rear legs in any way.
Type II IVDD typically occurs in older dogs. Normal wear and tear causes annulus fibers to expand with fluid. This causes compression and herniation of spine. In contrast to Type I IVDD, this form is not triggered by heavy exercise or trauma. It is evident by a reluctance or inability to turn the head.