German Shepherd Dog Health Issues
The German Shepherd is one of the most admired dog breeds and an excellent companion. However, like most pure bred dogs, German Shepherds can be prone to some diseases. Below are some of the German Shepherd dog health concerns.
Developmental bone and joint disease is a problem that affects predominantly young, large-breed dogs like German Shepherds. There may be muscle wasting in the hind legs with hip dysplasia. Dogs may show lameness, pain, and be reluctant to exercise or may even not show any pain at all.
Another problem that may affect German Shepherds is Hemangiosarcoma. It is basically a cancer of the cells lining the inside of blood vessels. Weakness, a distended abdomen, sudden collapse and pale gums are the symptoms associated with this disease. Skin, heart, liver and spleen are the affected areas.
A common German Shepherd dog health problem is hind limb weakness. It may be caused by a slipped disc, degeneration of the bones of the spine and degeneration of the spinal cord. Weakness and sometimes a lack of coordination or wobbliness affects the rear limbs in these cases.
If your dogs seems lethargic, sensitive to cold, susceptible to skin infections, or is becoming obese or losing hair, be sure to get his thyroid evaluated. Diseased thyroid glands can cause inadequate or excess thyroid production, conditions known as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.
Your German Shepherd may also have health concerns with the eyes. Pannus which is an inflammation of the cornea and can affect the dogs vision, can be diagnosed by observing - pink to black growths over the front of the eye, squinting, excessive tearing or eye discharge, eye redness, rubbing or pawing at the eyes.
A bacterial infection of the skin, sometimes accompanied by puss, is known as Pyoderma and can be a problem in German Shepherds. It is unknown what causes this condition, but it may be due to an immune deficiency. Your dog may have this if he displays pimples or sores, hair loss, redness or other abnormal skin conditions. Some dogs also become lethargic, or lose their interest in food.
If you want to avoid these German Shepherd dog health issues, then the best thing to do is screen the health of the dog’s parents to ensure that they don’t have thee medical issues. Also closely monitor your dog for signs indicating problems. See a veterinarian promptly if you spot any issues.
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