10 Quick Tips For German Shepherd Life Expectancy

Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy

German Shepherds are in their prime between the ages of 2 and 6 years old. The German Shepherd is at its peak in regards to physical and mental agility.

They are at greater risk of developing cancer, musculoskeletal problems, and other health conditions that can impact their lives.

German Shepherds of the working line typically lead more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet that is rich in nutrients to support their active lifestyles and exercise.

Cushing's Disease

German Shepherds are prone 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 prevent or treat them can help your dog have a longer lifespan. Regular veterinary visits, good nutrition, and daily exercise are the keys to maintaining 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 on the adrenal glands or pituitary glands is the most frequent cause of the disease. In about 80% to 90% of cases the tumor is located on the pituitary gland which is a pea-sized body located near the brain's base. In about 15% of cases, the tumor is on one of the adrenal glands which are located on the top of the kidneys.

If a pet suffers from Cushing's disease, it becomes more active and eats more than normal. Cushing's may also cause more thirst and increased the need to urinate. This means that the pet needs to drink more fluids, and take toilet breaks more often. Hair loss, a pot-bellied appearance, and lethargy are other signs of the condition.

A veterinarian can diagnose the condition by drawing blood and carrying out an adrenocorticotropic hormonal stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and analyzing the adrenal response. The results will show how high or low the cortisol level of the patient is.

Once a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's disease it will require medication to rest his life. This medication will control his symptoms and slow the growth of the tumour. Most dogs suffering from this disease can lead normal lives if they are properly treated and monitored. However, the condition can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated early.

Epilepsy

German Shepherds with epilepsy that is treated and diagnosed correctly can live an extended and healthy life. However, a dog that suffers from uncontrolled seizures may die from oxygen deficiency or injury during seizures. Epilepsy that is not treated properly can cause depression or a failure to eat or drink, which can quickly turn fatal.

More hints  of epilepsy on German Shepherds can be affected by the way in which the condition is handled by the owner. A dog owner who is able to closely monitor the dog's medication, develop appropriate strategies for managing seizures and build a strong support system is more likely to prolong their pet's life span.

As with all breeds of dog German Shepherds are susceptible to suffering from dental diseases. Left untreated, this problem can cause serious damage to gums and teeth and even result in infections in other areas of the body, such as the liver, kidneys and heart. Regular dental care for dogs can reduce the risk of this issue.

Shepherds are at a much more bloat-prone risk than other breeds due to their deep, narrow chests. This dangerous stomach disorder occurs when the intestines turn and expand with gas, cutting off blood flow to the stomach and spleen. This condition could cause death in less than 30 minutes if not addressed promptly. If your Shepherd shows symptoms of bloat like Heaving, retching, or an enlarged stomach or is in a prayer 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 who experience bloat are at greater risk of developing hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy than other breeds. This is why it's important to keep your dog current with veterinary visits and preventative care.

Elbow Dysplasia

The elbow is a hinge between the humerus (the long bone in the upper forelimb), and the ulna and radius, (the two bones of the lower forelimb). The three bones must fit together perfectly for a lifetime of motion. When they don't, a condition referred to as elbow dysplasia can develop. It's the most common cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs.

In certain instances of the disease the cartilage between bones begins to degrade, causing swelling, pain and lameness. This damage cannot be reversed 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 mild limp or intermittent one, particularly after 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 kinds of elbow dysplasia. They are: Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP), Osteochondrosis on the Humeral Condyle (OCH), and the Ununited Aconeal Process (UAP). Each of these conditions can be observed on both elbows or one of them.

A thorough screening of the elbow and hip of breeding animals is currently the best option to avoid these issues. However, despite screenings, these diseases can still be present. Breeding only dogs whose elbows have been proven to be healthy is the most effective approach. This will stop the genes for elbow dysplasia being passed onto offspring.

Degenerative Myelopathy

Degenerative Myelopathy is a neurological disease 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 then develop into paralysis. The condition is considered to be a canine form of Lou Gehrig's disease (amyotrophic lateral-sclerosis). It isn't known why some dogs with this disease develop it and others do not, 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. Certain dogs can live for many months or even years with a good quality of life. However, it is typical for owners to choose to kill their pet if they are incapable of standing or walking on its own.

Your doctor will conduct an examination of the neurological system and create an accurate medical record to determine DM. The neurologist will check for other diseases with similar clinical signs and request blood samples to test for the genetic mutation that is associated with this disorder. A cerebrospinal fluid sample may also be obtained to enable analysis and exclude other diseases. The neurologist may recommend MRI imaging using our advanced diagnostic imaging service. This will enable your vet to identify areas of the spine that are affected with DM and monitor the progress of the disease. Physical rehabilitation therapy can also be beneficial for DM sufferers and can slow the progression of the condition.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

German Shepherds are susceptible to health issues that could reduce their life expectancy. Recognizing these conditions and understanding the ways they affect your dog can assist you in taking preventative measures to ensure their longevity.

Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the "doughnut" of the spinal disc doesn't remain in its correct position. Each disk has an outer fibrous ring known as an annulus and a soft nucleus that absorbs impact. When the nucleus is herniated it can cause severe pain and paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative disorder However, sudden traumas can cause herniation.

Type I IVDD is characterized by a sudden herniation of the spinal canal of the nucleus of the disc. This can cause severe pain in the back, arching back, weakness of the limbs in the rear and lameness in the hind limbs. This condition can also cause weakness, incontinence and incoordination. If the spinal cord becomes compressed and dies then your dog will become completely paralyzed. They might not even be able to use their rear legs.

The onset of type II IVDD is more gradual and usually occurs in older dogs. Normal wear and tear causes the annulus fibers to expand with fluid. This leads to compression and herniation of the spine. Unlike Type I IVDD, this type isn't triggered by trauma or exercise. The symptoms include a lack of interest or inability to turn the head.