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Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy German Shepherds are in their prime between the ages of 2 and 6 years old. They're at their strongest in terms of physical fitness and mental sharpness. They are at a higher risk of developing illnesses of the musculoskeletal system and other health conditions that can impact their lives. Working line German Shepherds typically have more active lives than their show line counterparts. They require a nutrient-rich diet to support their active lifestyle and exercise demands. Cushing's Disease German Shepherds are susceptible to several health conditions such as hip dysplasia elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy and Cushing's disease. Understanding these ailments and taking the correct steps to treat or prevent them can help your dog have a longer lifespan. Regular veterinary checks, proper nutrition, and regular exercise are the most important factors 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. A tumor on the pituitary or adrenal glands is the most common cause of the condition. In 80 to 85% of cases, the tumor occurs on the pituitary, which is a small organ that is located close to the brain's base. About 15% 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 more active and eats more frequently than usual. Cushing's also causes an increase in thirst and urination, so the pet has to drink more fluids and go outside more often to take a break from the toilet. Other signs of the condition include hair loss as well as a potbelly appearance, and lethargy. A veterinarian can identify the disorder by drawing blood and conducting an adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test. This test involves injecting ACTH into the patient and measuring the adrenal response. The results will show how high or low the patient's cortisol level is. When a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's disease, it is required to take medication for the remainder of his life. This medication will stop the growth of the tumor and keep the 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 can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated early. Epilepsy German Shepherds that are diagnosed and treated for epilepsy can remain healthy and enjoy a full and happy life. However, a dog that suffers from uncontrolled seizures may be killed due to oxygen deficiency or injury in the course of a seizure. Epilepsy that is not treated properly can cause depression or an inability to eat or drink, which can rapidly lead to death. The way the owner manages the condition could influence the effects of epilepsy in German Shepherds. Owners who are able to closely monitor their dog's medication and devise strategies to manage seizures and also create a strong network of support are more likely to prolong the pet's lifespan. As with other breeds of dog, German Shepherds can suffer from dental problems. If not treated, this condition may cause severe damage to the gums and teeth and may lead to infections in other organs like the kidneys, liver, and the heart. Dogs who receive regular dental care are less prone to this condition. Shepherds are at a much higher risk of bloat than other breeds because of their deep, narrow chests. This stomach-related disorder can be deadly when the intestines turn and expand with gas, cutting off blood flow to the stomach and spleen. The condition can be fatal in as little as 30 minutes if it is not treated immediately. If your Shepherd exhibits signs of bloat, for example crying or heaving, with no food coming in, an enlarged abdomen or lying in a prayer posture (front feet down and back end up) Take them to the emergency vet right away. 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 medical 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 the ulna (the two bones that comprise the lower forelimb). The three bones need to fit together perfectly for a lifetime of movement. If they don't connect perfectly, elbow dysplasia occurs. It's the most common cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs. In certain cases of the disease, the cartilage between 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 this condition in dogs are a slight limp or an intermittent one, particularly after exercise or upon getting up from a sitting position. As schäferhund kaufen progresses, the dog's elbow range of motion decreases. There could also be fluid in the joint. There are three main kinds 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. Presently, the best method to prevent this problem is to screen breeding animals for elbow and hip issues. The disease can still be present despite screenings. The most effective method is to only breed dogs whose parents have been proven to have healthy elbows. This will stop the genetics for elbow dysplasia from being passed to offspring. schäferhund beschützerinstinkt , an illness of the nervous system that affects German Shepherd dogs slowly and causes weakness in the hind legs, is a type of Degenerative Myelopathy. The signs of DM usually manifest in older dogs, and then progress to paralysis. The condition is thought to be the canine version 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 currently no cure for DM. The symptoms can be controlled through medication, however the condition is progressive and causes paralysis of the forelimbs. Certain dogs can live for many months or even years with high quality of life. However, it's common that owners choose the option of euthanasia if their dog is incapable of standing or walking on its own. Your vet will perform an examination of the neurological system and create an extensive medical record to diagnose DM. The neurologist checks for other diseases that have similar symptoms and asks for blood samples to test the genetic mutations that cause this disease. The neurologist may also request a sample of cerebrospinal liquid to allow for analysis and to rule out other diseases. Neurologists may recommend MRI imaging through our advanced diagnostic imaging service. This will allow your vet to pinpoint the regions of the spinal cord that are affected by DM and track the progression of the disease over time. In addition physical rehabilitation therapy is often beneficial for DM patients and can help to slow the progression of the disease. Intervertebral Disc Disease German Shepherds can be prone to health issues that may reduce their life expectancy. Understanding these conditions and how they affect your dog can assist you in taking preventative measures to help ensure their longevity. Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the “doughnut” of the spinal disc doesn't stay in its proper place. Each disk is made of a fibrous outer ring called an annulus fibrosus, and an uncompressive nucleus pulposus within which absorbs impact. If it is ruptured, the softer nucleus can hit the spinal cord with a great force, causing extreme pain, weakness, or paralysis. IVDD is typically a degenerative condition, however sudden trauma can lead to herniation in dogs with weak disks. Type I IVDD is characterised by sudden herniation into the spinal canal that is located in the nucleus of the disc. This can cause intense pain in the back arching back, a weakness of the rear limbs, and lameness of the hind limbs. This condition can also lead to weakness, incontinence and incoordination. If the spinal chord is compressed and dies, then your dog will be completely disabled. They might not even be able to walk on their rear legs. The development of type II IVDD is more gradual and generally occurs in older dogs. Normal wear and tear causes the annulus fibers to swell with fluid. This leads to herniation and compression of the spine. Contrary to Type I IVDD, this form is not triggered by heavy exercise or trauma. It is characterized by a refusal to turn the head, an arched back, and an appearance of weak or wobbly on the rear legs.