matchtea80

Health Issues That Affect German Shepherd Life Expectancy German Shepherds are at their prime between the ages of 2 and 6 years old. The German Shepherd is at its best in terms of physical and mental sharpness. They are at greater risk for diseases of the musculoskeletal system, cancer, and other health issues that can affect their lifespan. Working line German Shepherds usually lead more active lifestyles than show line counterparts. They require a diet rich in nutrients to meet their high activity levels and workout demands. Cushing's Disease German Shepherds are susceptible to several health conditions that include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy and Cushing's disease. Knowing these issues and taking the appropriate steps to prevent or treat them can help your dog live a longer and healthier life. Regular veterinary visits, good nutrition, and daily 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. The condition is usually caused by a tumor on the pituitary gland, or one of the adrenal glands. In approximately 80% to 90% of cases the tumor is located on the pituitary gland which is a pea-sized, sized organ located at the brain's base. Around 15% of the instances, the tumor is located on the adrenal glands that are located above the kidneys. Cushing's disease can cause pets to be more active and consume more food than usual. The condition can also cause an increase in thirst and urine production. This means that the pet needs to drink more fluids, and take frequent breaks to urinate. Other signs of the condition include loss of hair, a bloated appearance, and lethargy. A veterinarian can identify the condition by drawing blood and conducting an adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test. This test involves injecting the patient with ACTH and analyzing the adrenal response. The results show how high or low his cortisol levels are. When a dog is diagnosed with Cushing's disease, it is required to take medication for the duration of his life. This medication will control his symptoms and slow the growth of the tumour. Most dogs suffering from this disease are able to live normal lives when they are properly treated and monitored. However, the condition can be fatal if it is not diagnosed and treated early. Epilepsy German Shepherds suffering from epilepsy that is properly diagnosed and treated can live a long and healthy life. However, a dog that suffers from uncontrolled seizures may be killed due to oxygen deficiency or injury in a seizure. Untreated epilepsy can also result in depression or an inability to eat or drink, which could quickly be fatal. The impact of epilepsy on German Shepherds can be influenced by how the condition is controlled by the owner. A dog owner who is able to closely check the dog's medication, devise appropriate strategies for managing seizures and establish a strong support network is more likely to prolong the life span of their pet. As with all breeds of dog German Shepherds are also prone to suffering from dental diseases. Recommended Website , this problem can cause serious damage to gums and teeth and even cause infection in other parts of the body, like the kidneys, liver and the heart. Dogs that receive regular professional dental care are less prone to this issue. Shepherds are at a higher risk of bloat than many other breeds, due to their narrow, deep chests. This stomach-related disorder can be deadly if the intestines twist inwards, releasing gas and cutting off the blood flow to the stomach or the spleen. The condition can be fatal in less than 30 minutes if it is not treated immediately. If your Shepherd exhibits signs of bloat, such as retching or heaving with little or no food coming up or an abdominal bulge, or lying in a prayer position (front feet down, rear end up) Take your pet to the emergency vet right away. German Shepherds with bloat have a higher risk of developing hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy. This is why it's so important to keep your dog current by arranging veterinary visits and preventative treatments. Elbow Dysplasia The elbow is an articulation between the humerus, (the long bone in the upper forelimb), as well as the radius and ulna, (the two bones of the lower forelimb). The three bones have to fit together perfectly for a lifetime of motion. If they don't fit together properly, elbow dysplasia develops. It's the most frequent cause of lameness in the front legs (limping) in dogs. In certain instances, the cartilage that lies between the bones can erode which can cause pain, swelling and numbness. The damage is not irreparable therefore early diagnosis and treatment is crucial. Early signs of the disease in dogs are a mild limp or an intermittent one, particularly after exercise or when getting up from a seated position. As the disease progresses, the dog's elbow range of motion decreases. There could also be fluid in the joint. There are three major types of elbow dysplasia. Fragmented Coronoid Process, Osteochondrosis of the Humeral Condyle, and Ununited Anconeal Process. Each of these conditions can be found either on the elbows of both elbows. The best method currently to prevent this problem is to screen breeding animals for elbow and hip problems. However, despite screenings, these diseases can still occur. The most effective approach is to breed only with dogs from parents that are found to have good elbows. This will ensure that the genes for elbow dysplasia do not pass to 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 manifest in older dogs, and can progress to paralysis. The condition is considered the canine equivalent of amyotrophic lateral syndrome (Lou Gehrig's disease). Despite being genetically predisposed 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 controlled with medication, but the disease is progressive and eventually causes paralysis of the forelimbs as well. Some dogs are able to live for months or years with a high standard of life, however it is not uncommon for owners to opt for to end the life of their pet when they are unable to stand or walk on their own. To diagnose DM the doctor will conduct a thorough medical history and perform an examination of the neurological system. The neurologist will look for other illnesses that show similar symptoms and will request blood samples to determine the genetic mutation associated with this condition. A cerebrospinal fluid sample may also be obtained to permit analysis and the exclusion of other diseases. Neurologists may recommend 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 progression of the disease. Physical rehabilitation therapy can also be beneficial for DM sufferers and help slow the progression of the condition. Intervertebral Disc Disease German Shepherds are susceptible to certain health issues that can alter their life expectancy. Knowing about these conditions and how they affect your dog can aid you in taking preventative measures that support their longevity. Intervertebral Disc Disease occurs when the “doughnut” of the spinal disc doesn't stay in its proper place. Each disk is surrounded by an outer fibrous ring known as an annulus, and an annulus with a soft nucleus that absorbs impacts. If it is ruptured, the softer nucleus may strike the spinal cord with tremendous force, causing severe pain, weakness or paralysis. IVDD is a degenerative disease however, sudden trauma can trigger herniation. Type I IVDD is characterised by a sudden rupture into the spinal canal that is located in the disc's nucleus. This can cause severe back pain arching back, weakness of the rear limbs and lameness in the hind limbs. This condition can also cause weakness, incontinence and incoordination. If the spinal cord is compressed and dies the dog will be completely paralyzed, often being unable to move their rear legs in any way. The development of IVDD type II is more gradual and typically occurs in older dogs. Normal wear and tear causes the annulus fibers to swell with fluid. This causes compression and herniation of the spine. This type of IVDD isn't caused by trauma or intense exercise, which is not the case for Type I. It is characterized by a refusal to turn the head or back, an arched back and a walk that appears weak or wobbly on the rear legs.