German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds of dogs in Australia. But being such a popular breed comes with its drawbacks, and German Shepherds are no stranger to health problems that may arise throughout their lifetimes. This article will discuss the five most common health problems in German Shepherds and what you can do to protect your beloved family pet from them.
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Hip Dysplasia
One of the most common health problems, hip dysplasia can cause pain and lameness in your dog. If your German Shepherd is suffering from hip dysplasia, take it to a veterinarian for a complete examination. Your vet will be able to determine if your dog requires surgery and prescribe medications. The sooner you seek medical attention, the easier it will be for your vet to treat your dog’s hip dysplasia. Most dogs experience total recovery within two months with some drugs prescribed by their veterinarians.
Addison’s Disease
This disease causes lethargy, lack of appetite, weight loss, and vomiting. Symptoms typically appear in dogs aged between one and four years old. In humans, it’s known as adrenal gland failure; in dogs, it’s known as hypoadrenocorticism. Treatment includes hydrocortisone injections to help relieve symptoms and boost energy levels.
Gastric Torsion
This is a condition in which an animal’s stomach twists on itself. The affected dog experiences severe pain and bloating, and may even vomit blood or pass out. Gastric torsion is a common issue among dogs with long, narrow muzzles (such as Boxers) but can also affect dogs with short snouts, such as Pugs and Bulldogs. If you notice your dog acting lethargic and not eating regularly, make sure to contact your vet immediately.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative myelopathy is a neurological disease that affects older dogs. It slowly degrades their spinal cord and hinders mobility, causing difficulty walking. In more serious cases, it can cause paralysis, so it’s important to catch it early if you think your dog may be developing DM.
Bloat
A common, potentially life-threatening condition caused by a buildup of gases in your dog’s stomach, which expands like a balloon and puts pressure on his internal organs. Bloat can be fatal if it isn’t treated immediately; contact your vet if you think your dog is suffering from bloat. One way to help prevent bloat is to feed smaller meals throughout the day instead of one large meal.
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