Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds reach their peak between ages 2 and 6. The German Shepherd is at its best in terms of mental and physical sharpness.
They are at a higher risk of developing illnesses of the musculoskeletal system and other health conditions which could affect their lives.
German Shepherds in the working line usually 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 several health conditions, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and Cushing's disease. Knowing these conditions and taking the right steps to treat or prevent them can help your dog have a longer lifespan. deutscher schäferhund kaufen schweiz Süßer Deutscher Schäferhund , 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. A tumor in the adrenal glands, or pituitary glands, is the most common cause of the condition. In approximately 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 located on one of the adrenal glands which are located on top of the kidneys.
When a pet has Cushing's disease, it becomes more active and eats more frequently than usual. Cushing's may also cause an increase in thirst and urine production. This means that the pet has to drink more water, and also go outside for toilet breaks more often. Other symptoms of the condition include hair loss, a potbellied appearance, and a lack of energy.
A veterinarian can diagnose the disorder by drawing blood and conducting an adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and analyzing the adrenal response. The results indicate the degree to which his cortisol levels are.
If a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's disease he needs medication for the remainder of his life. The medication will manage the symptoms and slow the growth of the cancer. The majority of dogs suffering from this condition can lead normal lives if they are properly medicated and monitored. The condition can be fatal in the event that it isn't treated or detected early.
Epilepsy
German Shepherds that are diagnosed and treated for epilepsy can remain healthy and enjoy a happy life. However, a dog who has seizures that are uncontrolled could die from oxygen deficiency or injury in a seizure. Untreated epilepsy may also cause depression or an inability to eat or drink, which can quickly be fatal.
The way the owner manages the condition can affect the effects of epilepsy in German Shepherds. An owner who can closely monitor the dog's medication, devise appropriate seizure management strategies and establish a strong support network is more likely to extend their pet's lifespan.
As with all breeds of dog, German Shepherds are prone to suffering from dental disease. If left untreated, this condition could cause severe damage to gums and teeth, and even lead to infections in other organs, like the kidneys, the liver and the heart. Dogs that receive regular professional dental care are less susceptible to this issue.
Shepherds are at a much more bloat-prone risk than other breeds thanks to their chests that are narrow and deep. This ailment can be fatal to the stomach when the intestines are twisted inwards, releasing gas and cutting off blood flow to the stomach or spleen. If not treated immediately, this condition can be fatal in less than 30 minutes. If your Shepherd shows symptoms of bloat like Heaving, retching, or an enlarged stomach or is in a praying position (front feet are down, rear end is up) You should go to an emergency vet as soon as you notice.
German Shepherds with bloat are at a greater chance 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 joint between the humerus (the long bone of the upper forelimb) as well as the radius and the ulna (the two bones that comprise the lower forelimb). The three bones have to be perfectly aligned for a lifetime of movement. When they don't, a condition referred to as elbow dysplasia is created. It's the most common cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs.
In certain instances of the disease the cartilage between the bones becomes damaged and causes swelling, pain, and lameness. The damage is irreparable and early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
The first signs of this condition in dogs are a mild limp or a sporadic one, especially after exercise or upon getting up from a seated 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 types of elbow dysplasia: Fragmented Coronoid Process, Osteochondrosis of the Humeral Condyle, and Ununited Anconeal Process. Each of these conditions can be observed either on the elbows of both elbows.
Presently, the best method to prevent this problem is to screen breeding animals for elbow and hip problems. However, even with screenings, these diseases can still be present. The most effective approach is to breed only with dogs that come from parents who are found to have good elbows. This will ensure that the genes for elbow dysplasia are not passed to offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy is a neurological disease that slowly affects the spinal cord of German Shepherd dogs and causes weakness in the hind legs. DM symptoms usually manifest in older dogs and progress to paralysis. The condition is believed to be the canine equivalent of Lou Gehrig's disease (amyotrophic lateral-sclerosis). Although dogs are genetically predisposed to this condition, it's unclear why some dogs develop the disease and others don't.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be treated with medication, however the disease is progressive and eventually leads to paralysis of the forelimbs too. Some dogs can live for many months or even years with a high quality of life. However, it's common for owners to opt for to kill their pet if they are incapable of standing or walking on its own.
Your veterinarian will conduct an examination of the neurological system and create an accurate medical history to diagnose DM. The neurologist checks for other diseases with similar symptoms and will request blood samples to determine the genetic mutation associated this disease. A cerebrospinal fluid sample may also be collected to enable analysis and the exclusion of other diseases. The neurologist may recommend MRI imaging using our sophisticated diagnostic imaging services. This will allow your vet to determine the areas of the spinal cord that are affected by DM and monitor progression of the disease over time. In addition physical rehabilitation therapy can be beneficial for DM patients and can help to slow the progression of the disease.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are at risk of certain health issues that could affect their lifespan. Knowing 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 doesn't remain in its proper position. Each disk has an outer fibrous ring called an annulus, and a soft nucleus that absorbs impacts. When herniated, the softer nucleus could hit the spinal cord with a great force, causing severe pain, weakness or even paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative disorder, but sudden trauma can trigger herniation.
Type I IVDD is defined by a sudden rupture into the spinal canal of disc's nucleus. This can cause severe back pain, arching back, weakness of the rear limbs, and lameness in the hind limbs. It may also be accompanied by incontinence, weakness, or incoordination. If the spinal cord is compressed and dies, your dog will become completely paralyzed and often unable to use their rear legs even.
The onset of type II IVDD is more gradual and generally occurs in older dogs. It's a result of normal "wear and tear" that causes the weakened annulus fibers swelling with fluid, which leads to herniation and compression of the spinal cord. Contrary to Type I IVDD, this form isn't caused by trauma or intense exercise. Signs include reluctance to turn the head or back, an arched back and an appearance of weak or wobbly on the back legs.
