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Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy German Shepherds reach their peak between the ages 2 and 6. They're at their strongest in terms of physical fitness and mental toughness. Their size makes them at a higher risk of developing cancer muscle and joint issues, and other health issues that could affect their lifespan. German Shepherds of the working line usually lead more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a diet that is rich in nutrients to sustain their high levels of activity and exercise. Cushing's Disease German Shepherds are susceptible to numerous health issues like elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and. They also are susceptible to Cushing's Disease, degenerative myelopathy, and hip dysplasia. Understanding these conditions and taking proper steps to prevent or treat them can help your dog live longer. Regular veterinary visits, proper nutrition, and regular exercise can 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 typically caused by a tumor that has formed on the pituitary gland, or one of the adrenal glands. In about 80% to 85% of cases, the tumor is on the pituitary gland which is a pea-sized, sized organ located at the brain's base. In about 15% of cases, the tumor is on one of the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys. When a pet has Cushing's, it becomes active and eats more frequently than usual. The condition also causes increased thirst and urination. As a result, the pet has to drink more water and be outside more often for bathroom breaks. Other signs of the condition include hair loss, a potbellied appearance, and lethargy. A doctor can diagnose this condition by drawing blood, and then executing the adrenocorticotropic stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and analyzing the adrenal response. The results show how high or low the level of cortisol in the patient is. If a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's, they will need medication for the duration of his life. The medication will manage the symptoms and slow the growth of the cancer. Most dogs with this condition can lead normal lives if they are properly treated and monitored. The condition could be fatal if it's not treated and identified early enough. Epilepsy German Shepherds who are correctly diagnosed and treated for epilepsy can remain healthy and live a long, happy life. However, schäferhund kaufen who suffers from seizures that are not controlled may die due to oxygen starvation or injury during the course of a seizure. Untreated epilepsy can also result in depression or a lack of appetite or drink, which could quickly be fatal. The impact of epilepsy in German Shepherds can be influenced by how the condition is managed by the owner. Owners who are able to closely monitor their dog's medication and devise seizure management techniques, as well as establish an effective network of support, will be more likely to prolong the pet's life. Like most breeds of dogs German Shepherds are susceptible to suffering from dental disease. If left untreated, this issue can cause serious damage to teeth and gums, and could cause infections in other areas of the body, including the liver, kidneys and the heart. Dogs that receive regular professional dental care are less susceptible to this problem. Shepherds are at a much more bloat-prone risk than many other breeds, due to their narrow, deep chests. This dangerous stomach disorder occurs when the intestines twist and fill with gas, severing blood flow to the stomach and spleen. If not treated promptly the condition could be fatal in just 30 minutes. If your Shepherd shows signs of bloat, like retching or heaving with no food coming up, an enlarged abdomen or lying in a prayer position (front feet down, rear end up), take your pet to the emergency vet immediately. German Shepherds that experience the condition of bloat are more at risk of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. It is crucial to keep up with your dog's veterinarian care and preventative measures. Elbow Dysplasia The elbow is a hinge between the humerus, (the long bone in the upper forelimb), and the radius and ulna, (the two bones of the lower forelimb). The three bones must be able to fit together perfectly to withstand an entire lifetime of motion. If they don't fit together properly, elbow dysplasia develops. It is the most common reason for dogs to be weak in their front legs. In some instances the cartilage between the bones may be damaged, causing pain, swelling and lameness. The damage is irreparable therefore it is crucial to identify and treat the condition early. The first indications of the disease in dogs are a slight or intermittent limp, especially following exercise or upon getting up from a sitting position. As the disease progresses, the dog's range-of-motion in the elbow decreases and there may be fluid in the joint. There are three main types of elbow dysplasia: Fragmented Coronoid Process, Osteochondrosis of the Humeral Condyle, and Ununited Anconeal Process. Each of these conditions can be observed on one or both elbows. Screening for elbows and hips of breeding animals is the best way to prevent these issues. The disease can still be present despite screening. The most effective strategy is to only breed dogs from parents that are found to have good elbows. This will stop 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 typically manifest in older dogs and eventually lead to paralysis. The condition is regarded as the canine equivalent to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease). Although dogs are genetically predisposed to this condition, it's unknown why some affected dogs develop the disease whereas others do not. Unfortunately there is no cure for DM. The symptoms can be managed through medication, however the condition is progressive and leads to paralysis in the forelimbs. Some dogs can live for months or even years with a high standard of life, however it is typical for owners to opt for to kill their dog when it becomes in a position where they are unable to walk or stand on their own. To determine if you have DM, your vet will take a detailed medical history and perform an examination of the brain. The neurologist looks for other diseases that have similar symptoms, and will request blood samples to examine the genetic mutations that cause this disease. A cerebrospinal fluid sample may also be collected to allow for analysis and exclude other diseases. The neurologists may suggest MRI imaging with our advanced diagnostic imaging service. This will enable your vet to pinpoint areas of the spine that are affected by DM and monitor the progress of the disease. Additionally, physical rehabilitation therapy is often beneficial for DM patients and can aid in slowing the progression of the disease. Intervertebral Disc Disease German Shepherds are susceptible to certain health issues that can affect their lifespan. Understanding these conditions and the ways they affect your dog can help you take preventative action that supports their longevity. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) occurs when the inside or outside of the spinal disk “donut” isn't remain where it belongs. Each disk has a strong fibrous outer ring, known as an annulus fibrosus, and an inner nucleus pulposus that is not compressible which absorbs impact. If the disk is damaged, the soft nucleus could hit the spinal cord with great force and cause severe pain, weakness, or even paralysis. IVDD is usually a degenerative process, although the sudden trauma can cause herniation in dogs with weak disks. Type I IVDD is characterised by a sudden rupture into the spinal canal of disc's nucleus. This causes intense pain in the back arching back, weakness of the rear limbs and lameness in the hind limbs. This condition can also result in weakening, incontinence, and incoordination. If the spinal cord becomes compressed and dies, your dog will become completely disabled. They may not even be able to walk on their rear legs. Type II IVDD is typically seen in older dogs. Normal wear and tear causes annulus fibers to expand with fluid. This causes compression and herniation of spine. In contrast to Type I IVDD, this type isn't triggered by trauma or exercise. It is evident by a reluctance or inability to turn the head.