You’ll Be Unable To Guess German Shepherd Life Expectancy’s Secrets

Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy

German Shepherds reach their peak between ages 2 and 6. The German Shepherd is at its peak in regards to physical and mental sharpness.

They are at a higher risk for diseases of the musculoskeletal system, cancer, and other health conditions that can impact their lives.

German Shepherds in the working line typically lead more active lives than their show line counterparts. They need a diet 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, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy and Cushing’s disease. Knowing these conditions and taking the correct steps to treat or prevent them can allow your dog to live longer. Regular veterinary visits, good nutrition, and regular exercise are the keys 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 reason for the condition. In between 80% and 85percent of cases, the tumor is on the pituitary gland which is a pea-sized body located near the base of the brain. In approximately 15% 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 active and eats more frequently than usual. Cushing’s may also cause increased thirst and urine production. This means that the pet has to drink more fluids, and take frequent breaks to urinate. Loss of hair, a potbelly appearance, and a lack of energy are other symptoms of the condition.

A doctor can diagnose this condition by drawing blood and performing the adrenocorticotropic hormonal stimulation test. This test involves injecting the patient with ACTH and measuring the adrenal response. The results indicate the degree to which his cortisol levels are.

Once a dog has been diagnosed with Cushing’s, they will need medication for the remainder of his life. This medication will stop the growth of the tumor and keep his symptoms under control. Most dogs suffering from this disease are able to live normal lives when they are properly treated and monitored. However, the condition may be fatal if it is not detected and treated in the early stages.

Epilepsy

German Shepherds suffering from epilepsy who is properly diagnosed and treated can live a long and healthy life. However, a dog who suffers from seizures that are not controlled may be killed due to oxygen deficiency or injury in seizures. Epilepsy that is not treated properly can lead to depression, or the inability to eat or drink.

The way the owner manages the situation can influence the effects of epilepsy on German Shepherds. A dog owner who is able to closely check the dog’s medication, devise appropriate strategies to manage seizures and establish a solid support system is more likely to extend their pet’s lifespan.

As with all breeds of dog German Shepherds are susceptible to suffering from dental disease. Left untreated, this problem could cause irreparable damage to teeth and gums and may result in infection in other areas of the body, including the kidneys, liver and heart. Dogs who receive regular dental care are less susceptible to this issue.

Shepherds are at a much higher risk of bloat than other breeds because of their deep, narrow chests. This stomach condition is dangerous and can occur when the intestines twist and fill with gas, severing blood flow to the stomach and spleen. If not addressed immediately the condition could be fatal in just half an hour. If your Shepherd exhibits signs of bloat, such as vomiting or retching with little or no food coming in, an enlarged abdomen or lying in a prayer position (front feet down and the rear end up), take your pet to the emergency vet right away.

German Shepherds who experience Bloat are at a higher risk of developing hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy than other breeds. This is why it’s so important to keep your dog current with veterinary visits and preventative treatments.

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 have to fit together in a perfect way to withstand a lifetime of movement. If they don’t, a condition called elbow dysplasia can develop. It’s the most frequent reason dogs become weak in their front legs.

In some cases the cartilage between the bones may be damaged and cause swelling, pain and numbness. The damage is not reverseable and it is therefore crucial to identify and treat the condition at an early stage.

The first signs of the disease in dogs are a slight limp or an intermittent one, especially after exercise or when getting up from a sitting position. As the disease progresses, the dog’s elbow 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 one or both elbows.

Rigorous hip and elbow screening of breeding animals is the best bet to prevent these issues. These diseases can still occur despite screenings. Breeding only dogs with elbows that have been proven healthy is the most effective strategy. This will ensure that the genes for elbow dysplasia do not pass 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. DM symptoms usually appear in older dogs, and progress to paralysis. It is thought to be the canine equivalent of amyotrophic lateral degeneration (Lou Gehrig’s disease). It isn’t known why some dogs with this condition develop it, while others don’t despite being genetically predisposed.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be managed through medication, however the condition progresses and can cause paralysis in the forelimbs. Some dogs last for a number of months or even years with high quality of life. However, it’s common for owners to opt for to kill their pet if they are in a position to walk or stand on its own.

To diagnose DM, your vet will take a detailed medical history and conduct an examination of the neurological system. The neurologist looks for other diseases that have similar clinical signs, and will request blood samples to examine the genetic mutations that cause this disease. A sample of cerebrospinal fluid will also be taken to permit analysis and exclude other diseases. Neurologists may recommend MRI imaging with our advanced diagnostic imaging service. This will allow your vet to pinpoint the areas of the spinal cord that are affected by DM and monitor progression of the disease over time. In addition, 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 certain health issues that may alter their life expectancy. Understanding these conditions and how they affect your dog will assist 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 is made of a fibrous outer ring, called an annulus fibrosus, and a non-compressive nucleus pulposus inside that absorbs the impact. If the nucleus becomes herniated, it can cause severe pain and paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative disorder however, sudden trauma could cause herniation.

Type I of IVDD is connected with the sudden rupture of the disc’s nucleus material into the spinal canal. This results in severe back pain, arching of the back, 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 becomes compressed and dies, your dog will become completely paralyzed and often not able to use their rear legs at all.

The development of type II IVDD is more gradual and generally occurs in older dogs. Normal wear and tear causes annulus fibers to expand with fluid. This leads to compression and herniation of the spine. Unlike Type I IVDD, this form isn’t caused by trauma or intense exercise. Signs include reluctance to turn the head and an arched back and a walk that appears weak or wobbly on the back legs.