German Shepherds Health Tips

If you have, or are thinking about getting, a German Shepherd, you know they are excellent companion dogs. They’re smart, loyal, fun-loving, eager to please, trainable and obedient. There is hardly a better breed for a companion animal. However, German Shepherds have some health risks; all animals do, of course, but understanding the health issues German Shepherds face will help you care for yours.
One of the biggest problems large-breed dogs face is joint disorders. Specifically, German Shepherds are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, a condition where the joint is not formed properly. This very painful condition often shows up in fairly young dogs. While it’s not very treatable, your vet can prescribe pain medication to help ease your pet’s discomfort. If your dog is showing signs of pain in the hips or elbows, take her in for an x-ray and talk to your vet about how you can help improve her quality of life.
While we don’t often think of dogs having cancer, German Shepherds are vulnerable to a particular disease called hemangiosarcoma. This cancer occurs in the interior lining of the blood cells, and can affect major organs such as the heart, liver, spleen and even the skin. Symptoms include light-colored gums, physical weakness or collapse, or a distended abdomen. Consult your vet immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.
You should also be on the watch for frequent skin infections, lethargy, hair loss and intolerance of cold temperatures. These could be symptoms of a diseased thyroid, and your vet should take a look at your dog to determine if she needs to be on medication.
There are a couple of other, less serious problems that German Shepherds may develop, in addition to the standard dog problems like ticks, fleas and worms.
If your dog displays eye problems, such as squinting, excess tearing, or eye-rubbing, she may have Pannus, which is an inflammation of the cornea. Also be on the lookout for any growth over your dog’s eyes. Take your friend in for a vet checkup if you see any problems with her eyes, so that you can keep them healthy for her.
You should also be on the lookout for a skin infection called Pyoderma, a bacterial infection which presents as sores, which may look like pimples, hair loss, or redness of the skin. If your pup starts showing evidence of  a skin infection, it’s always best to have it looked at.
Like people and like any dog, German Shepherds sometimes get ill or have ongoing health problems. This is unfortunate, but as your pup’s person, you can help by keeping an eye out for any abnormality that might be a symptom, keeping in close touch with your vet, and primarily by knowing what’s normal for your pup and getting medical attention for anything that you believe is abnormal and problematic. Your dog depends on you to do this, and this is the best way to keep her well and healthy. She’ll appreciate it, even if she can’t say so.