German Shepherd Dog Health Issues

Navigation

You are here: Free Article Directory » Home-and-family » Pets » German Shepherd Dog Health Issues

by: LeeDobbins | Total views: 25 | Word Count: 385 | View PDF | Print View
Share This Article

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 common to many large dog breeds, affecting the younger animals. If your dog is affected, he may show no symptoms at all, or he may demonstrate pain or lameness, and seem cautious about movement. Hip dysplasia may cause leg muscles to actually waste.

German Shepherds can also be affected by hemangiosarcoma. Hemangiosarcoma is a cancer affecting the lining cells of the blood vessels. This mainly targets the skin, heart, liver and spleen. Symptoms may present as weakness, a distended abdomen, sudden collapse and pale gums.

Another German Shepherd dog health problem is weakness in the hind legs. This can also include wobbliness or a lack of coordination in the affected limbs. Multiple factors can cause this, including bone or spinal degeneration or possibly a slipped disc in the dog's back.

Insufficient thyroid hormone production or hypothyroidism can be a problem in some of the dogs. Hair loss, obesity, lethargy, cold intolerance and skin infections are some of the symptoms of this disease of the thyroid gland.

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.

Pyoderma literally means "pus in the skin" is is most commonly referred as bacterial infection of skin that is recurring in nature. Usually there will be pus in the area. The immune system deficiency is thought to be the principal cause. Signs and symptoms of pyoderma include scratching, skin redness, pimples, sores, scaps and alopecia in the area. There may pain in the area and some pets may be sluggish and lose their appetites.

To avoid the occurrence of such troubles it is better to confirm that the parents of your new pet does not have any of these German Shepherd dog health problems. Be watchful and get a Vet's advice immediately if you notice your dog exhibiting any of the symptoms listed above.
Share This Article