Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds are at their prime between the ages of 2 and 6. They're at their peak in terms of physical fitness and mental toughness.
They are more at risk for illnesses of the musculoskeletal system and other health conditions which can affect their lifespan.
Working line German Shepherds usually have more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet that is rich in nutrients to sustain their high levels of activity and exercise.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds are susceptible to several health conditions including elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and. They also are susceptible to Cushing's Disease, degenerative myelopathy and hip dysplasia. Knowing these conditions and taking the appropriate steps to treat or prevent them can allow your dog to have a longer lifespan. Regular visits to the vet, proper nutrition and daily 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 on the adrenal glands, or pituitary glands, is the most frequent cause of the condition. In about 80% to 85% of cases the tumor is located on the pituitary gland which is a pea-sized, sized organ located at the base of the brain. In approximately 15 percent of cases, the tumor is on one of the adrenal glands which are located on the top of the kidneys.
Cushing's disease causes pets to be more active and eat more than usual. The condition can also cause increased thirst and urination, which means the pet will need to drink more water and go outside more often for bathroom breaks. Loss of hair, a potbelly appearance, and lethargy are other symptoms of the disease.
A doctor can diagnose this condition by drawing blood and then performing the adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and then measuring the adrenal response. The results show how high or low the level of cortisol in the patient is.
If a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's disease, he will require medication for the duration of his life. schäferhund kaufen will slow the growth of the tumor and keep the symptoms under control. Most dogs suffering from this disease can lead normal lives if they are properly treated and monitored. However, the condition may be fatal if it is not diagnosed and treated early.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds that are diagnosed and treated for epilepsy can live to a healthy age and enjoy a full and happy life. Uncontrolled seizures can cause a dog suffer from oxygen deprivation or an injury. Epilepsy that is not treated properly can cause depression or a lack of appetite or drink, which can rapidly lead to death.
The way the owner manages the condition can have an impact on the effects of epilepsy on German Shepherds. A pet owner who is able to check the dog's medication, develop appropriate strategies for managing seizures and establish a strong support system is more likely to extend their pet's lifespan.
Like all breeds of dogs German Shepherds are also prone to suffering from dental problems. If left untreated, this condition could cause severe dental and gum damage, and even cause infection in other organs such as the kidneys, the liver, and the heart. Regular dental hygiene for dogs can reduce the chance of developing this condition.
The chests that are deep of the Shepherd breed make them more susceptible to bloating. This stomach-related disorder can be deadly when the intestines twitch, filling with gas and cutting off the blood flow to the stomach or the spleen. The condition can cause death in less than 30 minutes if not addressed immediately. If your Shepherd exhibits signs of bloat, such as vomiting or retching with no food coming up or an overly large stomach, or lying in a prayer posture (front feet down and the rear end up) then take them to the emergency vet right away.
German Shepherds who experience Bloat are at a higher chance of developing hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy than other breeds. It is crucial 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) and the ulna and radius, (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 perfectly, elbow dysplasia occurs. It's the most common cause of lameness in front legs (limping) in dogs.
In certain instances, the cartilage that lies between the bones may deteriorate, causing pain, swelling and lameness. The damage is not reverseable and it is therefore crucial to recognize and treat the condition as early as possible.
The first signs of this disease in dogs include a mild limp or an intermittent one, particularly during exercise or when getting up from a seated position. As the disease advances the dog's elbow's range of motion decreases. There could also be fluid in the joint.
There are three types of elbow dysplasia. These include the Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP), Osteochondrosis on the Humeral Condyle (OCH), and the Ununited Aconeal Process (UAP). Each of these conditions has a unique appearance on xrays and could be seen in one or both elbows.
Screening for elbows and hips of breeding animals is the best way to prevent these issues. But, despite screenings these diseases can still be present. Breeding only with dogs whose elbows have been proven healthy is the most effective method. This will ensure that the genes for elbow dysplasia do not pass onto offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy is a neurological disorder that affects German Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness of the hind legs, is a type of Degenerative Myelopathy. DM symptoms usually manifest in older dogs and can progress to paralysis. The condition is considered the canine equivalent of amyotrophic lateral syndrome (Lou Gehrig's disease). 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 currently no cure for DM. Symptoms may be managed with medication, but the condition is progressive and eventually leads to paralysis of the forelimbs too. Some dogs endure for months or even years with a good quality of life. However, it is common for owners to opt for the option of euthanasia if their dog is in a position to walk or stand on its own.
Your vet will perform an examination for neurological disorders and will create an accurate medical history to diagnose DM. The neurologist will look for other diseases with similar clinical signs and will request blood samples to test for the genetic mutations that are associated with this disease. The neurologist will also obtain cerebrospinal fluid samples to allow for analysis and to rule out other illnesses. Neurologists may recommend MRI imaging with our advanced diagnostic imaging service. This will enable your vet to determine areas of the spine that are affected with DM and monitor the progress 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 issues that could reduce 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 doesn't stay in its proper place. Each disk has a tough fibrous outer ring, known as an annulus fibrosus, as well as an uncompressive nucleus pulposus within which absorbs impact. If the nucleus becomes herniated, it can cause severe pain and even paralysis. IVDD is usually a degenerative process, although sudden trauma can lead to herniation in dogs with weak disks.
Type I of IVDD is ascribed with the sudden insertion of the disc's nucleus into the spinal canal. It causes intense pain, back pain, arching of the back, weakness in the limbs of the rear, and hind-limb lameness. It can also be accompanied with weakness, incontinence, and incoordination. If the spinal cord gets compressed and dies the dog will be completely paralyzed, and may be not able to use their rear legs at all.
The development of type II IVDD is more gradual and typically occurs in older dogs. It's caused by normal "wear and tear" that causes the annulus fibers that are weakening expanding with fluid, leading to herniation, and then compression of the spinal cord. This form of IVDD isn't caused either by trauma or vigorous exercise, which is not the case for Type I. The symptoms include a reluctance to turn the head or back, an arched back and an appearance of weak or wobbly on the rear legs.