Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds are at their peak between 2 and 6. Süßer Deutscher Schäferhund at their strongest in terms of physical fitness and mental sharpness.
They are at greater risk of developing illnesses of the musculoskeletal system and other health issues that can affect their lifespan.
Working line German Shepherds typically lead more active lifestyles than show line counterparts. They require a diet rich in nutrients to support their high activity levels and workout demands.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds may suffer from several health conditions including hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. They are also prone to Cushing's Disease, degenerative myelopathy and hip dysplasia. Understanding these conditions and taking correct steps to prevent or treat them can help your dog live longer. Regular visits to the vet, proper 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 usually caused by a tumor that has formed on the pituitary gland or on one of the adrenal glands. In 80 to 85percent of cases, the tumor develops on the pituitary, which is a tiny organ located near the base of brain. In approximately 15% of cases, the tumor is on one of the adrenal glands, which are located on the top of the kidneys.
If a pet is suffering from Cushing's disease, it becomes more active and eats more frequently than usual. The condition also causes increased thirst and urination. As a result, the pet needs to drink more water and be outside more often to take a break from the toilet. Other signs of the condition include loss of hair as well as a potbelly appearance and lethargy.
A veterinarian can diagnose this disorder by drawing blood and then performing the adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and analyzing their adrenal response. The results will show the degree to which his cortisol levels are.
Once a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's disease, it is required to take medication for the remainder of his life. The medication will slow down the growth of the tumor and keep the symptoms under control. If they are monitored properly and medicated, most dogs with this condition will have normal lives. However, the condition could be fatal if it is not diagnosed and treated early.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds with epilepsy that is properly diagnosed and treated can live an extended and healthy life. However, a dog who has seizures that are uncontrolled could die due to oxygen starvation or injury during seizures. Epilepsy that is not treated properly can cause depression, or the inability to eat or drink.
How a pet's owner manages the situation can affect the impact of epilepsy in German Shepherds. Owners who are able to closely monitor their dog's medication, and develop seizure management techniques and create an effective network of support are more likely to extend the pet's lifespan.
As with all breeds of dog German Shepherds are also prone to suffering from dental diseases. If left untreated, this condition could cause serious damage to gums and teeth and may lead to infection in other organs like the kidneys, the liver, and the heart. Dogs that receive regular professional dental treatment are less susceptible to this problem.
The chests that are deep of the Shepherd breed make them more prone to bloating. This dangerous stomach disorder occurs when the intestines twitch to fill with gas, cutting off blood flow to the stomach or the spleen. This condition can be fatal in less than 30 minutes if it is not treated promptly. If your Shepherd exhibits signs of bloat, such as the retching, heaving, an overly large stomach or is in a praying position (front feet are down, and the rear end is up), you should bring them to an emergency vet as soon as you notice.
German Shepherds that experience bloat have a higher chance of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. It is essential to be on top of your dog's veterinary treatment and preventative measures.
Elbow Dysplasia
The elbow is a hinge joint that connects the humerus (the long bone of the upper forelimb), radius, and ulna (the two bones that comprise the lower forelimb). The three bones must fit perfectly to allow to allow for continuous movement. When they do not, a condition known as elbow dysplasia is created. It's the most common cause of lameness in front legs (limping) in dogs.
In some cases of the disease the cartilage between the bones erodes and leads to swelling, pain and lameness. The damage is not reverseable, so it is important to diagnose and treat the condition early.
The first indications of the disease in a dog are a slight or intermittent limp, particularly following exercise or upon getting up from a resting position. As the disease advances, the dog's elbow range of motion decreases. There could also 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 can be seen on one or both elbows.
Currently, the best way to prevent this issue is to test breeding animals for elbow and hip issues. However, even with screenings, these conditions can still happen. The most effective approach 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, an illness of the nervous system that affects German Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness of the hind legs, is a type of Degenerative Myelopathy. The symptoms of DM typically surface in older dogs, and then progress to paralysis. The condition is believed to be the canine equivalent of Lou Gehrig's Disease (amyotrophic lateral-sclerosis). Despite being genetically predisposed to this disease, it is unclear why some dogs develop the disease while others do not.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be treated with medication, however the disease progresses and eventually leads to paralysis of the forelimbs too. Some dogs can last for a number of months or years with a high quality of life. However, it is common that owners choose to kill their pet if they are in a position to walk or stand on its own.
Your veterinarian will conduct an examination of the neurological system and create a detailed medical record to diagnose DM. The neurologist will look for other diseases that have similar symptoms, and requests blood samples to examine the genetic mutations that cause with the disease. A cerebrospinal fluid sample may also be taken to permit analysis and the exclusion of other diseases. The neurologists will likely suggest 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 progression of the disease. Additionally, physical rehabilitation therapy is often beneficial for DM patients and can help to slow the progression of the disease.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are susceptible to health problems that can impact their lifespan. Knowing about these conditions and how they affect your dog will aid you in taking preventative measures to help ensure their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the "doughnut" of the spinal disc does not stay in its proper place. Each disk has a tough fibrous outer ring, called an annulus fibrosus, as well as 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 disorder, but sudden trauma can cause herniation.
Type I IVDD is characterised by a sudden herniation of the spinal canal of nucleus of the disc. This can cause intense pain in the back arching back, weakness of the rear limbs and lameness of the hind limbs. It may be accompanied by weakness, incontinence, and incoordination. If the spinal chord becomes compressed and dies then your dog will be totally paralyzed. They may not even be able to use their rear legs.
Type II IVDD is typically seen in older dogs. It's a result of normal "wear and tear" which results in the annulus fibers that are weakening swelling with fluid, which leads to herniation, then compression of the spinal cord. In contrast to Type I IVDD, this form isn't caused by trauma or intense exercise. Signs include a reluctance or inability to turn the head.