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Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy German Shepherds reach their peak between the ages 2 and 6. The German Shepherd is at its best in terms of mental and physical sharpness. Their size makes them at a higher risk of developing cancer musculoskeletal issues, and other health conditions that may have a negative impact on their lives. German Shepherds in the working line typically lead more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a nutritious diet to meet their active lifestyle and workout demands. Cushing's Disease German Shepherds can suffer from numerous health issues like hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. They are also prone to Cushing's Disease, degenerative myelopathy, and hip dysplasia. Understanding these ailments and taking the appropriate steps to treat or prevent them can help your dog live longer. Regular veterinary checks, proper nutrition, and regular exercise are the keys to a healthy and happy 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 common reason for the condition. In 80% to 85percent of cases, the tumor occurs on the pituitary gland, a small organ located close to the base of the brain. About 15 percent of the cases the tumor is situated on the adrenal glands which are located above the kidneys. When a pet has Cushing's, it becomes active and eats more frequently than usual. Cushing's can also trigger increased thirst and the need to urinate. This means that the pet needs to drink more fluids, and go outside for potty breaks more often. Hair loss, a pot-bellied appearance, and a lack of energy are other signs of the disease. A veterinarian can identify the disorder by drawing blood and conducting an adrenocorticotropic hormonal stimulation test. This test involves injecting the patient with ACTH and analyzing the adrenal response. The results indicate the level of high or low cortisol levels are. If a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's Disease, it is required to take medication for the duration of his life. The medication will help control the symptoms and slow the growth of the tumor. If they are properly monitored and treated, most dogs with this condition will live normal lives. However, the condition may be fatal if it is not treated and diagnosed early. Epilepsy German Shepherds with epilepsy that is properly diagnosed and treated can live a long and healthy life. However, a dog that suffers from uncontrolled seizures may die from oxygen deficiency or injury in the course of a seizure. Untreated epilepsy can also lead to depression or an inability to eat or drink, which can quickly be fatal. How the owner manages the situation can influence the effects of epilepsy on German Shepherds. A pet owner who is able to monitor the dog's medication, devise appropriate strategies for managing seizures and establish a strong support system is more likely to extend the life span of their pet. As with all breeds of dog German Shepherds are susceptible to suffering from dental problems. Left untreated, this problem could cause irreparable damage to the teeth and gums and may result in infections in other areas of the body, such as the liver, kidneys and heart. Regular dental visits for dogs can reduce the risk of this problem. The chests that are deep in the Shepherd breed make them more prone to bloat. This dangerous stomach disorder occurs when the intestines twist and become filled with gas, causing a cutoff in blood flow to the stomach and the spleen. This condition could be fatal in as little as 30 minutes if not treated promptly. If schäferhund welpen kaufen schweiz shows signs of bloat, for example retching or heaving with no food coming in or an overly large stomach, or lying in a prayer posture (front feet down and the rear end up) Take them to an 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 important to keep your dog up to date by arranging veterinary visits and preventative treatment. Elbow Dysplasia The elbow is a hinge joint that connects the humerus (the long bone of the upper forelimb), radius, and ulna (the two bones that form the lower forelimb). The three bones must fit together perfectly to allow for continuous movement. If they don't connect perfectly, elbow dysplasia can occur. It is the most common reason for dogs to be disabled in their front legs. In some cases the cartilage between the bones may be damaged, causing pain, swelling and numbness. This damage is not reversible, so early diagnosis and treatment are important. The first signs of the disease in dogs are a slight or intermittent limp, mainly following exercise or upon getting up from a seated position. As the disease progresses, a dog's range-of-motion in the elbow decreases and there could be fluid inside the joint. There are three types of elbow dysplasia. They are the Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP), Osteochondrosis on the Humeral Condyle (OCH), and Ununited Aconeal Process (UAP). Each of these conditions is distinct in its appearance on xrays and could be found in one or both elbows. Screening for elbows and hips of breeding animals is the best option to avoid these issues. But, despite screenings these diseases can still be present. Breeding only with dogs whose elbows have been proven to be healthy is the most effective strategy. This will prevent 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. DM symptoms usually appear in older dogs and can progress to paralysis. The condition is believed to be the canine equivalent of Lou Gehrig's disease (amyotrophic lateral-sclerosis). It isn't known the reason why some dogs suffering from this disease develop it and others don't, despite being genetically predisposed. Unfortunately there is no cure for DM. Symptoms may be managed with medication, however the condition is progressive and eventually leads to paralysis of the forelimbs too. Some dogs are able to live for months or even years with a high quality of life, however it is common for owners to choose euthanasia once the dog becomes unable to stand or walk on their own. To determine if you have DM, your vet will conduct a thorough medical history and then conduct an examination of the neurological system. The neurologist will search for other diseases with similar clinical signs and request blood samples to test for the genetic mutation associated with this disease. A cerebrospinal fluid sample may also be obtained to allow for analysis and exclude other diseases. The neurologist may recommend MRI imaging using our sophisticated diagnostic imaging services. This will enable your vet to determine areas of the spine that are affected with DM and track the progression of the disease. Physical rehabilitation therapy may be beneficial for DM sufferers and slow down the progression of the condition. Intervertebral Disc Disease German Shepherds are susceptible to certain health issues that can affect their lifespan. Recognizing these conditions and understanding how they impact your dog will assist you in taking preventative measures that will prolong their lives. Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the “doughnut” of the spinal disc doesn't remain in its correct position. Each disk has a tough fibrous outer ring, known as an annulus fibrosus, as well as a non-compressive nucleus pulposus inside that absorbs the impact. If the nucleus becomes herniated, it can cause severe pain and even paralysis. IVDD is usually an autoimmune process, but the sudden trauma can cause herniation in dogs with weak disks. Type I IVDD is defined by sudden herniation into the spinal canal of the nucleus of the disc. This can cause intense back pain arching back, a weakness of the limbs in the rear and lameness of the hind limbs. It could also be accompanied by incontinence, weakness, or incoordination. If the spinal cord becomes compressed and dies, your dog will become completely paralyzed and often being unable to move their rear legs in any way. Type II IVDD usually occurs in dogs that are older. It's the result of normal “wear and tear” that leads to the weakened annulus fibers expanding with fluid, leading to herniation and compression of the spinal cord. In contrast to Type I IVDD, this type isn't triggered by trauma or intense exercise. Signs include reluctance to turn the head and an arched back and a walk that seems weak or wobbly on the rear leg.