All pet owners hope to see their fur babies live long and happy lives. Knowing their potential life expectancy and possible health issues will greatly aid in the care of your dog. German Shepherds, unfortunately, have average life spans that are shorter than many other breeds.
German Shepherds can have shorter lifespans due to health issues related to the breed. Many of these issues have to do with mobility, such as hip and elbow dysplasia. However, German Shepherds are also prone to a myriad of other conditions such as bloat, epilepsy, degenerative myelopathy, and periodontal disease.
Now, let’s discuss the overall life expectancy of the breed and factors that affect it. We will also explore different preventative measures to help owners potentially extend their dog’s life.
A German Shepherd’s General Lifespan
It is important when seeking to adopt a German Shepherd that you have the knowledge of the breed’s life expectancy and health conditions.
Overall Life Expectancy
The average lifespan of a German Shepherd is 7 – 10 years, according to the American Kennel Club. This age range is, of course, not set in stone. The breed is certainly capable of surpassing the average but doing so requires great care on the owner’s part.
Mobility issues are credited as the primary reason for the short life expectancy of many German Shepherds. Dysplasia, arthritis, and back problems are all commonly seen in the breed. While these health conditions are not always immediately fatal, they can cause great amounts of pain for the dog.
German Shepherds can have either sloped or straight backs. Back problems occur more frequently in the dogs with a sloped back. There is some debate about why the sloped back occurs. Some believe it was a sought-after trait by breeders, while others believe it is a deformity that results from extensive interbreeding.
Treatments for mobility issues can often be quite expensive and involve intrusive surgeries. Plus, surgeries can sometimes lead to other health issues if problems arise during healing. In cases such as these, some owners choose to euthanize their German Shepherd to put an end to the pain. This means the natural lifespan may have been longer, but due to medical reasons, the dog’s life was shortened.
However, mobility issues do not have to be a death sentence. It is highly important when adopting a German Shepherd to keep these potential issues in mind and become educated on preventative measures and treatments.
Understanding Puppy Health
When purchasing or adopting a German Shepherd, it is important to consider where they come from. If you choose to purchase a puppy from a breeder, it is critical to find a breeder that follows ethical standards to breed healthy dogs. Unfortunately, there are some breeders that will not pay much mind to the overall health but rather breed for physical characteristics deemed desirable.
As for adopting shelter dogs, it is sadly unlikely that you will have access to a detailed history of their parentage and hereditary health. That being said, adopting from shelters is a necessary practice and an opportunity to give an abandoned or surrendered dog a great home.
Puppyhood is the perfect time to instill healthy habits for your German Shepherd and establish a good relationship with a reputable and specialized veterinarian.
Health Conditions
As mentioned, there are several health conditions that can affect German Shepherds. It is crucially important to keep an eye for symptoms that your dog is unwell or in pain. Early treatment can be the key to helping your dog feel better and live a longer life. If you believe your German Shepherd is suffering from any of the following conditions, or if any suspicious symptoms arise, get in contact with your vet immediately.
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Hip and elbow dysplasia are two common deformities that occur in German Shepherds. Pet Helpful states that hip dysplasia is the most common problem that affects the breed. These two conditions greatly affect the mobility of the dog and can cause massive amounts of pain.
According to VCA Hospitals, hip dysplasia is a deformity that occurs during the growth stages of puppyhood that causes looseness of the joints. This can later lead to degenerative joint disease and osteoarthritis. This condition can be greatly affected or worsened by factors such as diet, exercise, growth rate, and muscle mass.
Hip dysplasia affects the hip joint primarily. It is a genetic condition that causes pain and weaknesses in the hind legs. Symptoms include reluctance to move, limping, signs of pain, and a wobbly stride. While the condition develops in puppyhood, in many cases it does not become severe until later in life. Therefore, symptoms may be easy to miss or absent altogether in the dog’s early life.
Elbow dysplasia is very similar to hip dysplasia in development and symptoms. However, since it affects the elbow joint, it is likely to affect the front legs primarily. Like hip dysplasia it is genetic and worsens as the dog gets older.
Unfortunately, it is possible for a German Shepherd to develop both types of dysplasia. This means both their hind legs and their front legs can suffer from severe mobility inhibition and pain. The deformities are diagnosed typically by way of radiographs.
If you adopt a German Shepherd as a puppy, or an adult, consulting with a vet about checking for dysplasia may be a worthwhile endeavor. While severity can occur regardless, knowing about it beforehand can be crucial to helping the condition remain mild through the majority of the dog’s life.
Treatments for these conditions include medication and surgery. In some cases, mobility aids can be highly useful in helping your dog to get around without causing too much pressure or pain on the legs. While there is no conclusive research, alternative treatments such as acupuncture or stem cell treatments may help as well. Always consult with your vet before beginning treatment.
Bloat
Bloat, also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus, is a serious and life-threatening condition. Large dog breeds and especially deep-chested breeds, like German Shepherds, are the most at risk of developing this condition. According to PetMD, bloat is when the stomach dilates severely and twists on its short axis. Symptoms include:
- Anxious behavior
- Depression
- Abdominal pain
- Collapse
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Dry Heaving
- Rapid heartbeat or weak pulse
- Labored breathing
The cause of bloat is still widely unknown. It is believed to be caused by a number of factors including genetics, environment, and anatomy. What is known is the condition disproportionately affects big breeds such as German Shepherds and Great Danes. Too much food and water, delayed bathroom breaks, or excessive exercise after eating may also contribute to the development of the condition.
Bloat happens very quickly and requires fast and immediate treatment. The biggest symptom to watch out for is the expanding and hardening of the stomach. This is a critical sign to watch out for and if you notice your German Shepherd’s stomach has become bloated and deformed, they will likely need immediate medical attention.
Treatment requires the dog to be stabilized first and foremost, as bloat can cause death within hours. After this, surgery will likely be needed to return the stomach to its proper condition. If your German Shepherd has developed the symptoms of bloat, get them to an animal hospital immediately.
Idiopathic Epilepsy
Idiopathic epilepsy is an inherited, or genetic, condition that affects German Shepherds. According to German Shepherd Rescue Elite, this type of epilepsy is characterized by seizures. A typical seizure will have three phases; however, the second phase is typically the most severe. The phases are known as an aura, a generalized grand mal seizure, and a post-seizure state.
During the aura phase, symptoms may or may not be apparent. Potential symptoms include nervousness, hiding, shaking, whining, or excessive salivating. During the second grand mal phase, the German Shepherd is likely to have convulsions typical to most seizures. Besides convulsions, other signs your dog is in the second seizure phase include:
- Collapsing
- Stiffening of the limbs or muscles
- Jerking and twitching
- Foaming at the mouth
- Tongue chewing
In some cases, German Shepherds will experience the seizure while they are sleeping. This may make it more difficult to notice the symptoms, as they can be mistaken as the dog dreaming. German Shepherds can also have atypical seizures that do not follow the usual pattern. During an atypical seizure they may:
- Bark in a frenzied or frantic manner
- Snap or bite at the air
- Excessively chew themselves
- Space out
While it is highly important to get your German Shepherd medical care, if they are in the midst of a seizure the best practice may be to keep them cushioned and still, so they do not harm themselves or choke on vomit or saliva. In the event a seizure occurs, call your vet and have them guide you through the proper steps. Once the dog has come out of the seizure phase they should be taken for veterinary examination immediately.
The final post-seizure phase is typically characterized by behavioral changes such as confusion and sleepiness. According to VCA Hospitals, this phase is also known as the post-ical phase and can also include symptoms such as temporary blindness, excessive salivating, and pacing.
Treatment will depend on the cause. While seizures are often inherited in German Shepherds, they can also be caused by the ingestion of poisons or hallucinogens. Head trauma can also cause seizures. A veterinarian will be able to examine the dog to determine the cause.
For recurring seizures on epileptic German Shepherds, medication will likely be needed for treatments. Dietary changes can also help to lessen the frequency of seizures. Always consult with your veterinarian before beginning any new treatment.
Degenerative Myelopathy
In terms of fatality, degenerative myelopathy is the most likely to cause death in a German Shepherd of the medical conditions we have covered. German Shepherds are regarded as one of the most common breeds to be affected by this condition. According to the Universities Federation for Animal Welfare:
“Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive, incurable, disease of the nerves of the spinal cord which causes gradual loss of mobility and loss of feeling in the limbs.”
Degenerative myelopathy is not believed to be an excessively painful condition. However, due to the nature of the disease, it greatly impairs the German Shepherd’s mobility and ability to function. It typically appears in German Shepherds later in life, between the ages of 7 – 9. Currently, there is not a treatment for the disease, and euthanasia is usually recommended.
German Shepherds can be tested for a mutated gene associated with the condition. This DNA testing can occur as early as puppyhood. Getting your dog tested will be helpful in knowing what to expect in their later years. Sadly, some German Shepherds end up being surrendered to shelters after their owners discover they have the gene. Keep in mind that while the gene may shorten the dog’s life, they can still be happy and active before the condition develops later on.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is another common condition for German Shepherds to develop. The disease infects the gums and teeth and is usually a result of untreated gingivitis. Gingivitis particularly affects German Shepherds whose diets are comprised of soft or canned foods that do not help to clean their teeth and lead to the build-up of bacteria, plaque, and tartar. According to WebMD, symptoms in dogs include:
- Bleeding or red gums
- Loose teeth or loss of teeth
- Bad breath
- Whining or cowering when the mouth is used or touched
- Blood left on toys after chewing
- Inability to chew properly
Infected gums and teeth can lead to much more serious health conditions including heart, liver, and kidney disease. It can also cause bones in the jaw and nasal region to deteriorate, causing immense pain for the German Shepherd.
Early signs of the disease can be difficult to notice. Unfortunately, most symptoms begin to appear once the disease has already progressed. It is highly important to know what your German Shepherd’s teeth and gums should look like when they are healthy. This way you can check regularly for any abnormalities or discolorations.
Treatments for periodontal disease will range in extensiveness and cost depending on how far along the disease has progressed. Treatment can include teeth cleanings, teeth removals, x-rays, and antibiotics. Early intervention is key to keeping costs to a minimum, so keep an eye on your German Shepherd’s teeth.
Preventative Measures
While some health conditions may be unavoidable in German Shepherds, taking the proper precautions and preventative measures will greatly help to increase your dog’s overall health, comfort, and even potentially extend their lifespan.
Veterinary Care
The important and crucial action you can take for your German Shepherd is to get them established with a reputable veterinarian, preferably one who specializes in a big dog or German Shepherd treatment. Finding a specialized vet that you trust is key. It is also highly important to take your German Shepherd for regular check-ups.
While some symptoms of potential health conditions or disease may not be evident to you, the trained eyes of a veterinarian may be able to spot them much sooner. This can be extremely helpful in preventing excessive or fast progression of the disease.
A veterinarian will also be able to recommend the best foods and exercise routines for your German Shepherd. Establishing a proper diet and exercise routine is often crucial for the health of the breed, as they may require special dietary or exercise needs.
Diet
A balanced and nutritional diet is an absolute must for German Shepherds. Dry foods are highly recommended as they can aid in keeping their teeth clean. When choosing a food, it is important to look for high-quality, protein-rich foods.
Table scraps should be avoided, as they can cause intestinal and digestive issues. There is some debate on the safety of serving your German Shepherd a raw diet. The main danger of raw diet is uncooked meats are more likely to contain bacteria such as salmonella or E. coli.
A well-balanced diet with proper nutritional values can help keep your dog healthy and active. Proneness to conditions such as bloat and periodontal disease can be greatly affected by improper diets. Consulting with your vet about any food is a good idea, whether it be a dry bagged food or a special raw diet.
Dental Care
Proper dental care is crucial but often overlooked. In truth, the health of the teeth, gums, and mouth can greatly affect all other aspects of health. Taking your German Shepherd for regular annual cleanings is a must.
As for home care, consider purchasing a toothbrush and toothpaste designed for dogs. Home brushing can prevent excessive build-up of plaque and tartar. Other options include purchasing toys designed for teeth health, such as Kong or rope toys that help to clean your dog’s teeth while they chew.
German Shepherds are prone to a number of health conditions that can be life-threatening. Mobility issues are among the top causes of shortened lifespans. However, with proper care and treatment, your German Shepherd can live a happy and healthy life. Always consult with a veterinarian if any symptoms or concerns for your dog’s health arise.