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Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy

German Shepherds reach their peak between ages 2 and 6. They are at their best in terms of physical fitness and mental sharpness.

Their large size puts them at a greater risk of developing cancer musculoskeletal issues, and other health issues that could have a negative impact on their lives.

Working line German Shepherds often have more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a nutrient-rich diet to meet their high activity levels and exercise demands.

Cushing's Disease

German Shepherds can suffer from various health issues, including elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They are also prone to Cushing's Disease, Schäferhund kaufen österreich degenerative myelopathy and hip dysplasia. Knowing these conditions and taking correct steps to prevent or treat them can allow your dog to live a longer life. Regular veterinary visits, 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. The condition is usually caused by a tumor on the pituitary gland, or one of the adrenal glands. In between 80% and 85% of cases, the tumor is located on the pituitary gland, a small organ that is located close to the brain's base. Around 15% of the time the tumor is located on the adrenal glands which are located above the kidneys.

If a pet suffers from Cushing's disease, it becomes more active and eats more than usual. The condition also causes increased thirst and urination, so the pet has to drink more fluids and be outside more often for bathroom breaks. Other signs of the condition include hair loss as well as a potbelly appearance, and a lack of energy.

A veterinarian can diagnose this disorder by drawing blood and performing the adrenocorticotropic hormonal stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and measuring the adrenal response. The results will show how high or low the cortisol level of the patient is.

Once a dog has been diagnosed with Cushing's, they will require medication for the remainder of his life. The medication will slow down 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. The condition could be fatal, however, in the event that it isn't treated or detected early.

Epilepsy

German Shepherds suffering from epilepsy who is properly diagnosed and treated can live a long and healthy existence. However, a dog that has seizures that are uncontrolled could die from oxygen deficiency or injury during a seizure. Untreated epilepsy may also cause depression, or the inability to eat or drink.

How the owner manages the situation can influence the effects of epilepsy in German Shepherds. Owners who can closely monitor their dog's medication and develop methods to manage seizures, as well as establish an effective network of support, will be more likely to prolong their pet's lifespan.

As with all breeds of dog, German Shepherds are prone to suffering from dental diseases. If not treated, this condition may cause severe damage to the gums and teeth, and even cause infections in other organs like kidneys, liver, and the heart. Regular dental visits for dogs can reduce the chance of developing this condition.

Shepherds are at a much more bloat-prone risk than many other breeds, thanks to their narrow, deep chests. This ailment can be fatal to the stomach when the intestines are twisted to fill with gas, cutting off the blood flow to the stomach or the spleen. If not treated promptly, this condition can be fatal in just 30 minutes. If your dog shows signs of bloat, such as vomiting or retching with no food coming in or an overly large stomach, or lying in a prayer posture (front feet down and back end up) then take them to an emergency vet immediately.

German Shepherds who suffer from the condition of bloat are more at chance of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. It is important to be on top of your dog's veterinary care and preventative measures.

Elbow Dysplasia

The elbow is a hinge joint that connects the humerus (the long bone of the upper forelimb) as well as the radius and the ulna (the two bones that make up the lower forelimb). The three bones must be perfectly aligned for a lifetime of movement. When they don't, a condition called elbow dysplasia is created. It's the most common reason why dogs are lame in their front legs.

In some instances the cartilage between the bones can erode and cause swelling, purebred German shepherd puppy pain and numbness. The damage is not reverseable, so it is important to recognize and treat the condition as early as possible.

The first signs of the disease in dogs are a slight limp or intermittent one, especially after exercise or when getting up from a sitting position. As the disease advances, the dog's elbow range of motion decreases. There may also be fluid in the joint.

There are three types of elbow dysplasia. These include the Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP), Osteochondrosis on the Humeral Condyle (OCH), and Ununited Aconeal Processing (UAP). Each of these conditions can be seen either on the elbows of both elbows.

Currently, the best way to prevent this problem is to test breeding animals for hip and elbow problems. But, despite screenings these conditions can still happen. The most effective method is to only breed dogs from parents that are found to have healthy elbows. This will stop the genetics for elbow dysplasia from being passed on to offspring.

Degenerative Myelopathy

Degenerative Myelopathy, an autoimmune disorder that affects german shepherd kaufen Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness in the hind legs, is a type of Degenerative Myelopathy. The symptoms of DM generally manifest in older dogs and may progress to paralysis. The condition is thought to be the canine equivalent of Lou Gehrig's Disease (amyotrophic lateral-sclerosis). Although dogs are genetically predisposed to this disease, it is not known why some dogs develop the disease while others don't.

Unfortunately there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be treated by medication, but the condition is progressive and causes paralysis of the forelimbs. Some dogs endure for months or even years with a good quality of life. However, it's typical for owners to choose the option of euthanasia if their dog is in a position to walk or stand 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 look for Schäferhund welpe Kaufen other diseases that have similar clinical signs, and requests blood samples to examine the genetic mutation that causes with this condition. A cerebrospinal fluid sample may also be obtained to allow for analysis and exclude other diseases. The neurologist may recommend MRI imaging using our advanced diagnostic imaging services. This will allow your vet to identify areas of the spine that are affected with DM and track the progression of the disease. Physical rehabilitation therapy can also be beneficial for DM sufferers and slow down the progression of the condition.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

German Shepherds are susceptible to health issues that may impact their lifespan. Understanding these conditions and the ways 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 does not remain in its proper position. Each disk has a strong fibrous outer ring called an annulus fibrousus, and schäferhund Welpen kaufen schweiz an uncompressive nucleus pulposus within that absorbs impact. If it is ruptured, the softer nucleus can hit the spinal cord with tremendous force, causing severe pain, weakness or paralysis. IVDD is typically a degenerative condition, however the sudden trauma can cause herniation in dogs with weak disks.

Type I of IVDD is associated with the sudden rupture of the disc's nucleus into the spinal canal. This causes intense pain, back pain and back arching and lower back, weakness in the rear limbs and schäferhund welpen kaufen schweiz hind-limb lameness. It may also be accompanied by incontinence, weakness, and incoordination. If the spinal chord is compressed and dies then your dog will be totally crippled. They might not even be able to use their rear legs.

Type II IVDD is typically seen in dogs that are older. It's the result of normal "wear and tear" that leads to the weak annulus fibers expanding with fluid, leading to herniation and compression of the spinal cord. Unlike Type I IVDD, this type isn't triggered by trauma or exercise. It is evident by a reluctance or inability to turn the head.