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German Shepherd Dog Club of IL, Inc.

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When to Neuter Neutering (correct term for both males and females) your dog is an excellent way to avoid unplanned breedings. There are both risks and benefits to any medical procedure and we encourage you to be sure to make an informed decision about when or if to neuter your dog. This article is a great place to start your research..

Some Potential Health Problems in German Shepherd Dogs
(Many are genetic in nature)

Below are general descriptions about some health problems found in the GSD. Most well bred GSDs are extremely healthy dogs. However, if you own this breed, you should be familar with these illnesses and their symptoms. In some cases quick action on your part can be the difference between life and death for your dog. If you have additional questions or concerns about health, be sure to discuss them with your vet.

• Bloat is a very serious health risk for many dogs, yet many dog owners know very little about it. Deep-chested dogs, such as German Shepherds, Great Danes, and Dobermans are particularly at risk. Please be sure you are familar with the signs of bloat and act immediately.

Details About Bloat

A Bloat Chart For Your Fridge

• Chronic pancreatitis (suspected genetic) - lack of enzymes that digest fat and protein; chronic weight loss.
• Cryptorchidism (suspected genetic)-undescended testicle(s)
• Degenerative Myelopathy - spinal degeneration in older dogs (Chronic Degenerative Radiculomyleopathy - CDRM).  Generally appears from middle age. The degeneration occurs over time, beginning with hind limb weakness. Although initial signs resemble hip dysplasia, in actuality, it is the degeneration of the spinal cord rather than hip joints.
• Diabetes Mellitus (recessive) - onset of insulin deficiency at 2-6 months.
• Elbow Dysplasia (dominant) - progressive developmental deformity of elbow joints, symptom less to crippling, may be polygenic. Characterized by an onset of severe lameness between 4 and 6 months of age. There are three different types of elbow dysplasia: UAP (ununited anconeal process), FCP (fractured coronoid process), and OCD (osteochondrosis). Final health diagnosis can only be made by radiograph. The OFA now certifies elbows as well as hips.
• Epilepsy (recessive) - recurrent seizures onset between 1-3 years old. This may be transmitted genetically. The disorder may not express itself until the dog is about three to four years old. There is no way of testing for the disease until the GSD actually has a seizure.
• Hip Dysplasia (polygenic) - progressive developmental deformity of hip joints, symptom less to crippling. Basically, the hip joint is not constructed properly. Dysplastic dogs can vary from minor problems to severe dislocation of the hips. This condition is generally considered to be inherited. GSD breeding stock should be OFA certified or given an "A" certificate if from Germany. Pedigree, exercise, diet, and other factors can play a role in the extent that the dog exhibits an existing predisposition to HD as well.
• Intervertebral Disc Disease (suspected genetic) – slipped disc, pain, weakness to paralysis of limbs.
• Osteochondritis Dessicans (suspected genetic) - growth disorder of shoulder cartilage; pain, lameness (OCD).
• Panosteitis (suspected genetic) - (Commonly called "long bone disease," "wandering lameness," "growing pains" or "pano") Acute shifting lameness of growing dogs, deep bone pain, self-limiting. Caused by excessive bone production on the long bones, generally seen between 5-12 months of age. Dogs will generally grow out of the problem, but it is a painful condition. Pano leaves no lasting ill affects on the dog and diet is thought to play a role. Puppies usually completely outgrow Pano by 18 months. Enforced rest is usually prescribed with no use of painkillers since the GSD puppies will play more without pain which may exacerbate the condition.
• Retinal Atrophy (suspected genetic) - retina degenerates causing night blindness then total blindness.
• Soft Ears (recessive) - weak ear musculature. All GSDs are born with floppy ears. Normal ears will begin to stand up on their own in the 2nd or 3rd month. Some GSD ears will never develop the musculature to stand erect. This is an inherited recessive trait. Though soft ears primarily affects a dog's show ability (hanging ears are a disqualification), softeared GSD's are also more prone to ear infections.
• Ununited Anchoneal Process (dominant) - elbow dysplasia; pain and limp in front legs.
• von Willebrand's Disease (dominant) - bleeding disorder. An inherited blood condition that can include mucosal bleeding. Clinical blood tests must be done to distinguish this from other conditions. Results of breeding two VWD dogs is lethal. VWD is autosomal and not sex-linked.