The German Shepherd’s list of unique qualities includes traits such as fearlessness, intelligence, commitment, and perseverance. This might be why the German Shepherd is among the most popular dog breeds in the entire globe.

Common Health Concerns in German Shepherd

Having a German Shepherd dog is like receiving a gift that keeps giving. They are devoted guardians who will bring joy and laughter into your life. Nevertheless, you should make sure your German Shepherd is in good health as an owner. Regular physical activity and a healthy diet are the first steps in this process.

On top of that, German Shepherds are prone to numerous health conditions, so you should be aware of these. To better comprehend the breed, there are a few specifics about it that you need to be mindful of. The most common health problems that affect German Shepherds are listed below; be on the lookout for them and take immediate action if you do.

Dental Disease

It’s approximated that 80 percent of dogs will get some form of dental disease before they turn two. Unfortunately, German Shepherds are more prone to dental issues than other breeds of dogs. Tartar accumulation on the teeth is the primary indicator of dental illness, which continues to swell gums and tooth roots.

If you do not care for your buddy’s dental health, they could lose their teeth and be at risk for kidney, liver, heart, and joint concerns. Despite having proper care, the lifespan of a German Shepherd can be minimized by approximately three years. With the guidance of a trained veterinarian dentist that offers comprehensive pet dental care, you can keep your dog’s teeth in great shape.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is more common in German Shepherds than in several other large dog breeds. Hereditary hip dysplasia is much more prevalent in giant dogs than in smaller-sized ones, most likely due to the additional stress their more noticeable development surges put on their joints. For instance, the German Shepherd has other dysplasias, such as elbow deformation.

Hip dysplasia can cause limping, lameness, arthritis, and pain in the hip joints. Hip dysplasia in German Shepherds can be avoided by consistently monitoring your dog’s weight. If this issue is not taken care of correctly, it might require a surgical procedure to fix them. Keep in mind that the cost of this type of surgical treatment is high. Click here to learn more.

Bloat

Despite its uninspiring name, bloat is a severe illness requiring instant veterinary attention. There are a variety of names for this problem: stomach dilatation and volvulus (GDV), for example. Bloat can be lethal if it is not managed quickly.

The German Shepherd is among the breeds most vulnerable to bloat, as are deep-chested varieties and giant breeds. If you fail to realize the symptoms of bloat and look for prompt veterinary attention, your dog’s life could be in jeopardy. In an emergency, certain boarding facilities for pets provide exceptional veterinary services. They can examine your pet if the primary vet can not see them. If you are looking for trustworthy boarding kennels in your area, you can look for “dog boarding kennels near me” on the net to locate one.

The Takeaway

If you’re thinking of having a German Shepherd, but are concerned regarding health problems, don’t let that stop you. This breed is remarkable for numerous factors, including its intelligence, devotion, agility, and, of course, its protectiveness. They make great companions when paired with an appropriate human.