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German Shepherd Dog Health

by: LeeDobbins
Total views: 27 | Word Count: 398

A favorite breed of dog is the German Shepherd. Unfortunately, German Shepherds tend to suffer from certain health problems the way other purebred dogs do. In the following article, we'll cover some common German Shepherd dog health problems.

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.

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.

Keep a keen eye on the eyes of your German Shepherd, especially if you notice apparent squinting, excess tearing or discharge, redness, or rubbing of the eyes. You should also be alert for any growths over the eye, regardless of the color. A condition called Pannus, an inflammation of the dog's cornea, could cause any of these problems and be detrimental to your dog's optical health.

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.

About the Author

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