German Shepherds are very athletic and strong kind of breed but they are prone to illness and it is mostly because of their large body structure. There can be various reasons – sometimes it’s because of genetics and sometimes it’s because of their coat.
Today we will be going through German Shepherd sickness and symptoms, and common health problems.
Common health problems in German Shepherd
German Shepherds are more likely to get skin infection, allergies, hip and elbow dysplasia, and sensitive stomach but there are more health problems which German Shepherds suffer from.
1. Hip Dysplasia
It is a very common problem found in German Shepherd. German Shepherds are larger than other dogs because of this problem in them. Lack of exercise will even worsen the issue.
2. Elbow Dysplasia
Same as hip dybesplasia, elbow dysplasia is caused due to their huge body structure. Sometimes the biological factor also influences this; it makes them uncomfortable to walk.
3. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
GDV is also known as bloat; it is a serious issue that occurs when dogs consume food too fast and then engage themselves in physical activity. The gas builds up in the stomach and the bloating makes them unable to breath. It can be life-threatening and requires medical check-up.
4. Epilepsy
German Shepherds are highly exposed to seizure disorder; they don’t show any signs. This condition is incurable; still there are many ways to prevent the symptoms.
5. Hemophilia
Hemophilia has occurred to German Shepherds because of a long line of inbreeding. This is more common in German Shepherds than any other breed. Hemophilia happens when the blood does not clot properly making a small cut serious.
6. Diabetes
German Shepherds are more likely to overweigh, making diabetes common to German Shepherds.
7. Cataracts
Cataracts are easily noticeable; their eyes start to look a little cloudier. Later, they start having poor eyesight.
8. Degenerative Disc Disease
This disease is mostly seen on larger animals; it’s better to get your dog a spinal abnormality check-up.
9. Panosteitis
German Shepherds have fast growth rate and sometimes limp a lot as they grow; this condition is not permanent. Vet visit will help solve this problem.
10. Pancreatitis
It only happens once in the lifetime. The pancreas inflammation is caused by environmental issues and is more common in German Shepherds because of their sensitive stomach.
What causes health issues in German Shepherd?
Indiscriminate breeding can lead to many health problems in German Shepherd. Their huge body and weight has also contributed to the diseases; animals with larger bodies’ tend to have more health related issues than other species.
German Shepherds cannot be considered as unhealthy. Due of their genetic making and body structure, they are prone to some diseases.
Their coat also contributes to many skin related issues, and sometimes, they face stomach related issues as well.
Tips to keep German Shepherd healthy
- Hip dysplasia and many other problems can be taken care with an appropriate diet to promote healthy development of muscles and joints.
- By maintaining a healthy weight to protect their joints.
- Be careful while exercising and do not over-exercise; otherwise, you will hurt their joints.
- Regular walks and exercise will help prevent the health problems to some extent.
- Avoid heavy work when they are puppies that can impact their joints and bones.
- Try feeding them high quality food such as duck dog food, minerals, and fats.
- Avoid grapes and raisins as they are found to be poisonous for German Shepherds; fruits containing seeds can be harmful for them as well.
- Identify the early signs of the disease and try to take care of it as soon as possible.
Symptoms that your German Shepherds is unhealthy
Just like humans, even animals show some signs when they are unhealthy.
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Excessive drinking
- Excessive urinate
- Swelling in feet
- Restlessness
- Discomfort
- Moving on spot
- Rapid breathing
- Abdominal discomfort
- Obesity
At what age do German Shepherd start having problems?
There is no specific time for health problems to occur – some occur at a young age and some occurs when they are old.
Some health related problems can occur because of genetics and sometimes it happens because of the unhealthy lifestyle.
For example, hip dysplasia can occur when they are 4 months old, and diabetes usually occurs between 4 to 14 years of age.
Conclusion
No matter what dog breed you are having, there are going to be some health issues in them but of course some have little and some have a lot.
You can definitely prevent them by taking good care of them and understanding their requirement according to their breed.
Try keeping a healthy lifestyle for your dog, take regular veterinarian visits.