reinrassiger schäferhund entzückendescäferhundwelpen 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 sharpness.
They are more at risk for cancer, musculoskeletal problems, and other health conditions that could affect their lives.
Working line German Shepherds often have a more active lifestyle than their show line counterparts. They require a diet that is rich in nutrients to help them maintain their high levels of activity and exercise.
Cushing's Disease
German Shepherds can suffer from various health issues, including elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They are also susceptible to Cushing's Disease, degenerative myelopathy and hip dysplasia. Knowing these issues and taking the correct steps to prevent or treat them can allow your dog to live a longer and healthier life. Regular veterinary visits, good diet, and regular exercise are the key 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. The condition is typically caused by a tumor that has formed on the pituitary gland or on one of the adrenal glands. In approximately 80% to 85percent 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 about 15 percent of cases, the tumor is on one of the adrenal glands which are located on the top of the kidneys.
If a pet is suffering from Cushing's, it becomes active and eats more than normal. Cushing's also causes an increase in thirst and urination, so the pet will need to drink more water and go outside more often for bathroom breaks. Hair loss, a bloated appearance, and lethargy are other signs of the illness.
A veterinarian can identify the condition by drawing blood and conducting an adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and analyzing their adrenal response. The results show how high or low his cortisol levels are.
If a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's, he will need medication for the remainder of his life. This medication will stop the growth of the tumor and keep the symptoms under control. Most dogs suffering from this disease can lead normal lives if they are properly medicated and monitored. However, the condition can 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 existence. However, a dog who has seizures that are uncontrolled could be killed due to oxygen deficiency or injury in a seizure. Untreated epilepsy may also result in depression or the inability to eat and drink.
The effects of epilepsy on German Shepherds could be affected by the way in which the condition is controlled by the owner. Owners who can be vigilant about their dog's medication and devise strategies to manage seizures, as well as build an extensive network of support, will be more likely to prolong the pet's lifespan.
As with other breeds of dog German Shepherds, too, suffer from dental diseases. If not treated, this condition can cause severe damage to gums and teeth and even result in infections in other parts of the body, including the liver, kidneys and heart. Dogs that receive regular professional dental care are less prone to this issue.
The deep chests of the Shepherd breed make them more susceptible to bloat. This stomach-related disorder can be deadly when the intestines turn and expand with gas, cutting off blood flow to the stomach and spleen. This condition can be fatal in as little as 30 minutes if not addressed immediately. If your Shepherd shows signs of bloat, such as Heaving, retching, or an overly large stomach, or is in a prayer position (front feet are down, and the rear end is up) You should bring them to an emergency vet as soon as you notice.
German Shepherds who experience bloat are at a greater risk of developing hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy than other breeds. It is important to stay on top of your dog's veterinary care and preventative measures.
Elbow Dysplasia
The elbow is an articulation between the humerus (the long bone of the upper forelimb), and the radius and ulna, (the two bones of the lower forelimb). The three bones need to fit together perfectly for a lifetime of movement. If they don't connect perfectly, elbow dysplasia can occur. It's the most frequent cause of lameness in front legs (limping) in dogs.
In some cases of the disease the cartilage between the bones erodes and leads to swelling, pain and lameness. The damage is irreparable and early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
The earliest signs of the disease in a dog are a slight or intermittent limp, especially after exercise or after getting up from a seated position. As the disease progresses, a dog's range of motion in the elbow decreases and there may be fluid in the joint.
There are three types of elbow dysplasia. They are Fragmented Coronoid Process (FCP), Osteochondrosis on the Humeral Condyle (OCH), and Ununited Aconeal Processing (UAP). Each of these conditions is distinct in its appearance on x-rays and may be seen in both elbows or one of them.
A thorough screening of the elbow and hip of breeding animals is the best way to prevent these problems. But, despite screenings these conditions can still happen. Breeding only dogs whose elbows have been proven to be healthy is the most effective method. This will ensure that the genes responsible for elbow dysplasia are not passed onto offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy, an illness of the nervous system that affects German Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness of the hind legs, is a variant of Degenerative Myelopathy. DM symptoms typically manifest in older dogs, and progress to paralysis. The condition is considered the canine equivalent of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease). It is not known the reason why some dogs suffering from this condition develop it, while others don't despite being genetically predisposed.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for DM. Symptoms may be managed with medication, but the condition is progressive and eventually leads to paralysis of the forelimbs too. Some dogs can endure for months or years with a high standard of life, but it is not uncommon for owners to choose euthanasia once the dog becomes in a position where they are unable to walk or stand on their own.
To diagnose DM the doctor will take a detailed medical history and perform an examination of the brain. The neurologist will look for other illnesses that show similar clinical signs, and requests blood samples to determine the genetic mutations that cause with this condition. The neurologist will also obtain cerebrospinal fluid to allow for analysis, and to exclude other diseases. The neurologists will likely suggest 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 monitor the progress 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 certain health issues that can affect their lifespan. Knowing these conditions and how they impact your dog will assist you in taking preventative measures that will prolong their lives.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) occurs when the outer or inner of the spinal disk "donut" doesn't stay where it belongs. Each disk has a strong fibrous outer ring called an annulus fibrosus, as well as an inner nucleus pulposus that is not compressible which absorbs impact. When the nucleus gets herniated it can cause severe pain and a paralysis. IVDD is typically an autoimmune process, but an accident that is sudden can cause herniation in dogs with weak disks.
Type I IVDD is characterized by sudden herniation into the spinal canal of nucleus of the disc. This can cause severe pain in the back arching back, weakness of the limbs in the rear and lameness of the hind limbs. This condition can also lead to weakening, incontinence, and incoordination. If the spinal cord is compressed and dies it will cause your dog to become completely paralyzed and often being unable to move their rear legs even.
Type II IVDD is typically seen in dogs that are older. It's caused by normal "wear and tear" which results in the annulus fibers that are weakening swelling with fluid, leading to herniation and compression of the spinal cord. Unlike Type I IVDD, this type isn't triggered by trauma or intense exercise. It is characterized by a refusal to turn the head or back, an arched back and a walk that seems weak or wobbly on the rear legs.
