German Shepherds are amazing dogs. They are loyal, smart, brave, and beautiful. They can be your best friend, your protector, and your partner in crime. But they also need your care and attention, particularly when it comes to their health.

Unfortunately, German Shepherds are prone to a few health issues that can affect their quality of life and even make their stay with us shorter than we would like. Some of these issues are inherited from their parents, while others are caused by their lifestyle, diet, or environment. However, the good news is that with a bit of know-how, many of these issues can be easily prevented or treated!

In this article, we’ll go through 10 common health issues that German Shepherds face. We’ll help you recognize the signs and symptoms, and provide you with the tools you need to keep your best friend healthy and happy. 

What are common health issues for German Shepherds?

You can learn how to do Successful DIY Dog Health Check and the Secrets to a Healthy Dog Smile before reading about common health issues for German Shepherds.

Hip Dysplasia

Do you know that hip dysplasia is one of the most common health issues in German Shepherds? This condition can cause pain, inflammation, and even arthritis, as the hip joint doesn’t fit properly in the socket. The worst part is that it can be inherited from their parents! 

But here’s the good news: you can identify some clues when your dog is young. Keep an eye out for difficulties in getting up, running, jumping, or climbing stairs. They might even limp, sway, or waddle when they walk. If you notice any of these signs, don’t hesitate to take them to the vet for a thorough checkup.

Now, you might be wondering how to prevent hip dysplasia. Well, the best way is to choose a reputable breeder who tests their dogs for this condition and only breeds healthy dogs. It’s also crucial to keep your pup at a healthy weight, feed them a balanced diet, and provide them with moderate exercise and joint supplements. 

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia can be as troublesome as hip dysplasia for your dog. It can cause your dog’s front legs to hurt, become inflamed, and even develop arthritis. 

Have you noticed your pup having trouble walking on hard surfaces or showing signs of pain like licking, biting, or favoring their elbows? These could be the signs of elbow dysplasia. 

But don’t worry, just like with hip dysplasia, there are ways to prevent and treat elbow dysplasia. You can start by choosing a responsible breeder and keeping your furry friend at a healthy weight. Feeding them a balanced diet and providing moderate exercise and joint supplements can also help.

Bloat

Have you ever heard about bloat or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV)? This condition can be life-threatening for your dog. It happens when the stomach fills up with gas and twists on itself, cutting off the blood supply and causing shock.

The good news is – you can prevent it! Bloat is more common in large, deep-chested breeds like German Shepherds, but it can happen to any dog. Watch out for signs like a swollen, hard, or painful abdomen, excessive drooling, panting, retching, or vomiting. If you notice these signs, don’t wait – seek veterinary help right away! 

To keep your dog healthy and happy, try feeding them small, frequent meals. Also, avoid feeding your dog right before or after exercise and foods that can cause gas, such as beans, dairy, or spicy foods.

Additionally, raised bowls can make your dog swallow more air, so it’s best to avoid them. Keep an eye on your furry friend, and if you notice any signs of bloat, don’t hesitate to seek emergency care. 

Epilepsy

Did you know that epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can affect any dog, but is more common in German Shepherds? It causes sudden bursts of abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which results in seizures. These seizures can vary in type, frequency, and severity – some may be mild, such as twitching or staring, while others can be severe and cause convulsions or loss of consciousness. 

If your dog is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. Your vet can diagnose the cause of the seizures and prescribe medication to control them. Don’t forget to keep a record of your dog’s seizures, including the date, time, duration, and type, so your vet can adjust the dosage and monitor the effectiveness of the treatment. 

It’s also important to learn how to handle your dog during a seizure. This includes keeping them safe, calm, and comfortable, and avoiding touching their mouth or head. By taking these steps, you can help your dog manage their epilepsy.

Hemophilia

Hemophilia is a blood disorder that can affect your dog. This condition can prevent your dog’s blood from clotting properly, which can lead to excessive bleeding and bruising. Hemophilia is mainly inherited and it affects mostly male dogs. Depending on the type and amount of clotting factor that is missing or defective, hemophilia can be mild, moderate, or severe.

So, how can you tell if your dog has hemophilia? Well, the signs are quite easy to spot. If your dog bleeds excessively from minor wounds like cuts, scratches, or injections, it could be a sign of hemophilia. They may also bleed internally, such as in the joints, muscles, or organs. Bruising easily, especially on the chest, abdomen, or limbs, is also a common sign of this condition. Additionally, your dog may show signs of anemia, such as weakness, fatigue, or pale gums.

Now, you might be wondering what you can do to help your dog if they have hemophilia. The best thing you can do is to take them to the vet. Your vet can diagnose the type and severity of the condition and provide blood transfusions or clotting factor injections as needed.

You should also take steps to prevent your dog from getting injured, such as by keeping them away from sharp objects, rough play, or surgery. It’s also important to monitor your dog for any signs of bleeding or bruising and seek veterinary care if you notice anything unusual.

Remember, early diagnosis and treatment can help your dog lead a happy and healthy life, so don’t hesitate to take action if you suspect your furry friend may have hemophilia.

Diabetes

Are you aware that diabetes can affect our furry friends too? Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that can impact your dog’s ability to produce or use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. This condition can be caused by genetics, obesity, pancreatitis, or other diseases. Although any dog can be affected, it is more common in older, overweight, or female dogs.

So, how do you know if your dog has diabetes? Well, the signs are quite apparent. Your dog may drink more water than usual, urinate more often, eat more frequently, or lose weight. They may also seem to have an increased appetite, thirst, or hunger, but with decreased energy, activity, or alertness. In severe cases, they may even develop infections, cataracts, or nerve damage.

The good news is that diabetes can be managed with the right treatment. Consulting your vet is the best way to diagnose the condition and get started on the right track. Your vet may prescribe insulin injections and a special diet to control your dog’s blood sugar levels.

You’ll also need to monitor your dog’s blood sugar levels regularly using a glucometer or urine strips. And, of course, it’s essential to learn how to recognize and treat the signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) by giving your dog a source of sugar, such as honey or corn syrup.

Cataracts

Did you know that cataracts can affect your dog’s vision too? It’s a condition where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, making it difficult for your dog to see clearly. Although it can affect any dog, German Shepherds are more prone to it due to their genetics. 

What are the signs of cataracts in dogs? Keep a lookout for cloudy, milky, or bluish tint in their eyes, especially in bright light. Your furry friend may also have trouble seeing in dim light or at night, bump into things, or act confused or scared. 

If you observe any of these signs, it’s best to consult your vet who can diagnose the cause and suggest the best course of action. Sometimes, cataracts may not require treatment if they don’t affect the vision significantly. However, some may require medication, eye drops, or surgery.

To prevent further damage, you should also take steps to protect your dog’s eyes from injury, infection, or irritation. Keep them clean, avoid harsh chemicals, or even consider using sunglasses to protect your dog’s eyes.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Are you familiar with degenerative disc disease in dogs? It’s a condition where the discs between the vertebrae of the spine degenerate and can be super painful for dogs. It can happen for several reasons, including genetics, aging, trauma, or infection, and it’s more common in German Shepherds.

The symptoms of degenerative disc disease can vary depending on where the damage is located and how severe it is. Your pup might show signs of pain, stiffness, or weakness in their neck, back, or legs. They could have trouble walking, running, jumping, or climbing stairs. In some cases, they might even experience paralysis, incontinence, or loss of sensation in their limbs or tail.

There are options for treatment. The best course of action is to talk to your vet, who can diagnose the condition and recommend medication, physical therapy, or surgery if necessary. You can also help your dog by keeping them at a healthy weight, feeding them a balanced diet, and providing them with moderate exercise and joint supplements. 

Panosteitis

If you’re a dog owner, you may have heard of a condition called panosteitis. It’s a condition where the long bones of the legs become inflamed, leading to pain and lameness. Just like humans, dogs can also experience growing pains, and panosteitis is commonly found in young, growing dogs, especially large breeds like German Shepherds.

The signs of panosteitis can be sudden and intermittent, which means they can come and go without warning. You may notice your dog limping, hopping, or refusing to put weight on one or more legs. They may also show signs of pain, such as whining, licking, or biting their legs. Additionally, they may have a fever, loss of appetite, or even appear depressed.

If you think your dog may have panosteitis, it’s best to consult your veterinarian. Your vet can diagnose the condition and prescribe the necessary medication such as painkillers, anti-inflammatories, or antibiotics depending on the case.

It’s also important to rest your dog and limit their activity until they recover. Keep an eye on your pup and look out for any signs of improvement or worsening, and if needed, seek veterinary care.

Allergies

Did you know that allergies are becoming more and more common in dogs? They can affect your dog’s quality of life by causing unpleasant symptoms such as itching, inflammation, and irritation. German Shepherds, in particular, seem to be more susceptible to allergies than other breeds.

So, how can you tell if your dog is suffering from allergies? Well, the signs can vary depending on the type and location of the allergen. You might notice your dog has skin problems like redness, bumps, or hair loss. They could also have ear problems such as discharge or odor, or respiratory problems like sneezing or coughing. In some cases, your pooch might even experience digestive problems like vomiting or diarrhea.

If your dog is showing any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit your vet as soon as possible. They can help diagnose the type and cause of the allergy and prescribe medication such as antihistamines, steroids, or immunotherapy.

It might also be necessary to avoid or eliminate the allergen, which could involve changing your dog’s diet or using hypoallergenic products. To soothe your dog’s skin, ears, or eyes, you could try using oatmeal baths, aloe vera, or saline solution.

Remember, your dog’s health is just as important as any other member of your family, so don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet if you have any concerns about allergies.

How can I keep my German Shepherd healthy?

Keeping your German Shepherd healthy is a great way to show your love and care for your furry friend. There are many things you can do to help your dog stay fit and happy, such as:

Feed your German Shepherd a high-quality, balanced diet

Feeding your German Shepherd with a nutritious and balanced diet is essential to keep them healthy and happy. And when it comes to your loyal German Shepherd, you certainly want to make sure that they are getting the right amount of food without overfeeding or underfeeding them. So, it’s important to adjust their feeding portions based on their age, size, and level of activity.

I highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult, Chicken And Barley Recipe, Dry Dog Food for Medium Breed Dogs.

Hill's Science Diet Adult, Chicken And Barley Recipe, Dry Dog Food for Medium Breed Dogs

Exercise your German Shepherd 

It’s recommended to exercise your German Shepherd for at least 1.5 to 2 hours every day, depending on their energy level and temperament. This will help prevent boredom, obesity, and behavioral issues.

There are many fun activities you can do with your pup, such as play fetch, tug-of-war, frisbee, or agility training. You can also take them for walks, hikes, or bike rides. Learn how you can get your German Shepherd to have perfect recall here.

But be careful not to do exercises that can harm their hips and elbows, especially when they’re young or old. I love playing Dog Training Games with my dog and I’m sure you will too. So, get moving with your pal and have a great time together!

Socialize your German Shepherd

If you’re a proud owner of a German Shepherd, then you know that they are loyal and protective dogs. However, they can also be a bit wary of strangers or other animals if they are not properly socialized. That’s why it’s important to socialize your furry friend from an early age so that they feel comfortable and confident in different situations.

To help your pup become a social butterfly, you can enroll them in puppy classes, take them to dog parks, or set up play dates with other friendly dogs. You can also expose them to different sights, sounds, and smells in your neighborhood or city. Just make sure to supervise your dog and respect their limits and preferences.

Groom your dog regularly 

First things first, grooming is key! Make sure to brush your dog’s coat at least twice a week to keep it clean, shiny, and healthy. Since German Shepherds have a double coat that sheds heavily, a de-shedding tool could be your best friend during seasonal changes. And don’t forget to trim their nails, ears, and teeth as needed to keep them healthy and happy.

If you want to bathe your pup, just remember that it’s best not to overdo it. Occasional baths are fine, but too much washing can dry out their skin and coat. Use a mild dog shampoo and conditioner that’ll keep your pup smelling fresh and feeling soft. And always rinse them thoroughly!

I recommend the following:

DakPets Pet Grooming Brush

Wahl Dry Skin & Itch Relief Pet Shampoo for Dogs,

The Original Dirty Dog Shammy Ultra Absorbent Quick Drying Towel

Regular vet visits 

As a loving pet parent, you want your dog to live a long, happy, and healthy life. That’s why it’s essential to visit your vet regularly, at least once a year, for check-ups, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care. It’s especially important for German Shepherds, who are prone to some health issues like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat, epilepsy, hemophilia, diabetes, cataracts, degenerative disc disease, panosteitis, and allergies.

But don’t worry, with proper care and attention, you can help your dog stay healthy and happy for years to come. If you notice any signs of illness or injury, such as changes in appetite, weight, behavior, or appearance, or any abnormal bleeding, bruising, or pain, don’t hesitate to consult your vet. 

Love your GSD 

Our furry friends bring so much joy to our lives, and German Shepherds are no exception! These sweet and loyal pups deserve all the love and care that we can give them. 

To show your pup how much you care, be sure to shower them with plenty of praise, treats, belly rubs, and playtime. Remember, your pup relies on you for safety and comfort, so let’s give them the best life possible!

Conclusion

These are some of the best ways to keep your German Shepherd healthy and happy. By following these tips, you can ensure that your dog lives a long, fulfilling, and enjoyable life with you.

I hope you had a great time reading this article and learned some new things about taking care of your beloved German Shepherd. Your dog depends on you to keep them healthy and happy, so if you notice any signs of trouble, make sure to contact your vet right away. And don’t forget to give your dog plenty of love, praise, and treats as they truly deserve it! They’re always there for you, so let’s make sure we’re there for them. 

Further Reading