Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy
German Shepherds peak between the ages 2 and 6. The German Shepherd is at its best in terms of physical and mental agility.
They are more at risk for diseases of the musculoskeletal system, cancer, and other health conditions that can affect their lifespan.
Working line German Shepherds often have more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet high in nutrients to sustain their active lifestyles and exercise.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds are susceptible to a variety of health issues that include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy and Cushing's disease. Knowing these issues and taking appropriate steps to prevent or manage them will allow your dog to live a longer life. 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 common cause of the condition. In 80% to 85% of cases, the tumor is located on the pituitary, which is a tiny organ located near the base of brain. Around 15% of the time, the tumor is located on the adrenal glands which are located above the kidneys.
If a pet is suffering from Cushing's disease, it becomes more active and eats 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 potty breaks. Other symptoms of the condition include loss of hair, a bloated appearance, and lethargy.
A vet can diagnose this disorder by drawing blood, and performing the adrenocorticotropic hormonal stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and analyzing their adrenal response. The results show how high or low the cortisol level of the patient is.
If a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's, they will require medication for the duration of his life. This medication will slow the growth of the tumor and keep his symptoms under control. The majority of dogs suffering from this condition can lead normal lives if 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 that are diagnosed and treated for epilepsy may be healthy and enjoy a full and happy life. However, a dog who suffers from seizures that are not controlled may die from oxygen deficiency or injury during the course of a seizure. Untreated epilepsy may also cause depression, or the inability to eat and drink.
The impact of epilepsy on German Shepherds can be affected by the way in which the condition is controlled by the owner. A pet owner who is able to check the dog's medication, devise appropriate seizure management strategies and establish a solid support network is more likely to prolong their pet's life span.
As with all breeds of dog German Shepherds are susceptible to suffering from dental problems. If not treated, this condition can cause serious damage to the teeth and gums, and could result in infections in other parts of the body, including the liver, kidneys, and the heart. Regular dental hygiene for dogs can lower the chance of developing this condition.
Shepherds are at a much more bloat-prone risk than many other breeds, thanks to their chests that are narrow and deep. This stomach condition is dangerous and can occur when the intestines turn and fill with gas, causing a cutoff in blood flow to the stomach and the spleen. If not treated immediately this condition can become fatal in just half an hour. If your Shepherd shows signs of bloat, such as vomiting or retching without food coming in or an abdominal bulge, or lying in a prayer posture (front feet down, rear end up) then take your pet to the emergency vet right away.
German Shepherds that experience bloat are at a higher risk of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. It is essential to keep up with your dog's veterinary treatment and preventative measures.
Elbow Dysplasia
The elbow is a hinge joint between the humerus (the long bone of the upper forelimb) as well as the radius and ulna (the two bones that form the lower forelimb). The three bones have to fit perfectly to allow for a lifetime of motion. If they don't connect perfectly, elbow dysplasia can occur. It's the most common cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs.
In some cases of the disease the cartilage between the bones begins to degrade, causing pain, swelling, and lameness. The damage is not irreparable, so early diagnosis and treatment is crucial.
The first signs of the condition in dogs are a slight limp or intermittent one, particularly after exercise or when getting up from a sitting position. As the disease progresses, the dog's elbow range of motion decreases. There may 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 has a unique appearance on x-rays and may be present in both elbows or one of them.
Screening for elbows and hips of breeding animals is currently the best option to avoid these issues. These conditions can still develop even after screening. The most effective strategy is to only breed dogs whose parents have been proven to have good elbows. This will stop the genetics for elbow dysplasia from being passed onto offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy is a neurological disorder that affects German Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness in the hind legs, is a type of Degenerative Myelopathy. The signs of DM generally manifest in older dogs, and then become paralyzed. The condition is considered to be a canine form of Lou Gehrig's Disease (amyotrophic lateral-sclerosis). It isn't known the reason why some dogs suffering from this disease get it, and others do not despite having a genetic predisposition.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be treated through medication, however the condition can progress and causes paralysis of the forelimbs. Some dogs can live for months or years with a high quality of life, however it is not uncommon for owners to elect to end the life of their pet when they are incapable of standing or walking on their own.
To diagnose DM to diagnose it, your doctor will take a detailed medical history and perform an examination of the neurological system. The neurologist looks for other diseases with similar symptoms and will request blood samples to determine the genetic mutation that causes with the disease. The neurologist may also request cerebrospinal fluid samples to enable analysis and to rule out other illnesses. The neurologist will likely recommend MRI imaging using our sophisticated diagnostic imaging services. This will allow your vet to determine the regions of the spinal cord that are affected by DM and monitor progression of the disease over time. Additionally, physical rehabilitation therapy is frequently beneficial for DM patients and can help to slow the progression of the disease.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
German Shepherds are prone to certain health issues that could alter their life expectancy. Understanding Learn Additional Here and how they affect your dog will help you take preventative measures that support their longevity.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) occurs when the outside or inside of the spinal disk "donut" does not stay where it belongs. Each disk is made of a fibrous outer ring called an annulus fibrosus, and a non-compressive nucleus pulposus inside that absorbs impact. When the nucleus gets herniated it can cause severe pain and even paralysis. IVDD is typically an autoimmune process, but sudden trauma can lead to herniation in dogs with weak disks.
Type I IVDD is characterized by a sudden rupture into the spinal canal of nucleus of the disc. This causes intense back pain arching back, weakness of the rear limbs, and lameness of the hind limbs. This condition can also result in weakening, incontinence, and incoordination. If the spinal cord becomes compressed and dies it will cause your dog to become completely paralyzed, and may be being unable to move their rear legs at all.
The development of IVDD type II is more gradual and generally occurs in older dogs. It's a result of normal "wear and tear" which results in the weakened annulus fibers expanding with fluid, leading to herniation and compression of the spinal cord. This type of IVDD isn't caused by trauma or intense exercise, as is the case with Type I. Signs include reluctance to turn the head or back, an arched back and an appearance of weak or wobbly on the rear legs.