3 Common German Shepherd Health Complaints and Signs

German Shepherds are beloved for their loyalty, intelligence, and versatility, but like all breeds, they can be predisposed to specific health issues. Understanding these common complaints helps owners spot early signs, seek timely veterinary care, and provide the best quality of life for their pet. Here are the three most common health problems German Shepherds face, along with advice on recognising symptoms and managing their condition.

1. Hip Dysplasia in German Shepherds

German Shepherd puppies are especially prone to hip dysplasia, a painful genetic condition affecting the hip joints. It occurs when the ball of the femur does not fit snugly into the socket of the hip bone, leading to discomfort, lameness, and arthritis in later life.

Causes and Contributing Factors

While inherited, hip dysplasia symptoms can worsen with improper diet, excessive weight gain, and too rapid growth during puppyhood. It's essential to supervise your German Shepherd's diet and exercise balance to prevent exacerbation.

Early Signs to Monitor

Signs can appear as early as 4 months old or only in senior dogs. Look out for limping, reluctance to climb stairs, a peculiar “rolling” gait with hind legs, muscle wasting in the rear limbs, or any clicking sounds during movement.

Clinical Symptoms

• Lameness in one or both hind legs
• Swelling or weakness in rear limbs
• Reluctance to jump or walk
• Strange or lop-sided gait
• Pain during movement

Early diagnosis through veterinary checks and radiographs (X-rays) is vital for management. Treatment may include weight control, physiotherapy, pain relief medication, and in some cases, surgery is recommended.

2. Degenerative Myelopathy: A Progressive Spinal Condition

Degenerative myelopathy is a serious spinal disease that typically affects older German Shepherds, causing progressive loss of coordination and mobility, mainly in the hind legs. This condition is thought to have a genetic basis and currently has no known cure.

Who Is At Risk?

Males tend to be affected more often than females, with symptoms generally starting between 5 and 14 years of age. Because it is believed to be inherited, dogs with degenerative myelopathy should not be bred.

Recognising Symptoms

• Weakness and dragging of the hind legs
• Difficulty standing and jumping
• Knuckling of the toes and sore inner digits
• Tremors and muscle loss in rear limbs
• Progressive incontinence
• Possible front leg involvement in late stages

Although there is no effective treatment, supportive care such as physiotherapy and assistive devices can help maintain mobility and comfort for as long as possible.

3. Idiopathic Epilepsy in German Shepherds

Epilepsy, also known as idiopathic epilepsy when no identifiable cause is found, causes sudden seizures or convulsions in dogs. It is considered a genetic condition in German Shepherds and several other breeds, and affected dogs should not be bred to prevent passing it on.

What Happens During a Seizure?

Seizure duration ranges from a few seconds to several minutes. Symptoms vary from minor facial twitching to full-body convulsions with uncontrolled paddling, vocalisation, and loss of awareness. Post-seizure, affected dogs often appear disoriented and confused for variable lengths of time.

Signs to Watch For

Seizures typically have three phases:

Aura

Your dog may show restlessness, shaking, excessive salivation, clinginess, or may hide. This stage can last seconds to days.

Ictus (Seizure phase)

The actual convulsion, where the dog may fall and paddle legs, salivate heavily, soil themselves, and remain unaware.

Postictal Stage

Following the seizure, confusion, disorientation, pacing, or seeking comfort are common. This phase may last from minutes to days.

During a seizure, ensure the dog's safety by removing dangerous objects and staying calmly nearby without restraining them. Consult a vet for diagnosis and management, which may include medication to reduce seizure frequency.

Promoting Responsible German Shepherd Ownership

While these conditions may seem daunting, many German Shepherds live happy, active lives with attentive care. Responsible ownership involves choosing reputable breeders who test for hereditary conditions, maintaining regular veterinary check-ups, balanced nutrition, appropriate exercise, and early recognition of health changes.

If you're considering adding a German Shepherd to your family, always find a German Shepherd puppy from trusted sources committed to the health and temperament of their dogs.

Understanding these common health complaints ensures you are prepared and can offer your German Shepherd the long, healthy life they deserve.