German Shepherd Health
July 29, 2008
Often the German Shepherd is a very healthy breed that is capable to living an average of 12 to 16 years. For those with a well-bred German Shepherd it is unlikely that they will have any major health problems. However, all German Shepherds are susceptible to certain health conditions. This includes Canine Hip Dysphasia or CHD in which the skeleton has a developmental problem and the femur doesn’t sit correctly within the hip socket. Another condition is Von Willebrand’s Disease, which is a blood disease that affects the ability to the dog’s blood to form clots. Without proper care and regular baths a German Shepherd can also develop skin allergies.
It is important that you feed your dog a healthy diet. In order for your dog to have a long and happy life you should feed them fresh food. Most fresh meats are okay such as turkey, chicken and beef. However for a balanced diet you should also mix in some vegetables, rice and eggs.
You can have excellent German Shepherd health by feeding a good and healthy diet, brushing the teeth as often as possible, grooming regularly and providing your dog with plenty of exercise and attention. It is a good idea to perform a weekly home health exam to keep your German Shepherd healthy since this will allow you to spot any of the common German Shepherd health conditions before they turn into anything serious. It can also make you aware of your dogs body so that you can easily detect any changes that occur due to injury, disease or dog related emergencies.
Taking your dog to the veterinarian on a regular basis is the best way to care for your German Shepherd. All vaccinations should be current and you should have a regular physical and health exam done. It is best to choose a veterinarian that is familiar with the health problems specific to a German Shepherd and can deal with any specific hereditary disease of the breed.
Maintaining good German Shepherd health relies greatly on diet. An adult German Shepherd can eat at least forty pounds of dry food a month, although this amount can change for a dog with a higher metabolism or a dog with an increased activity level. For example, a younger dog that is more active will require more fuel in the form of food than an older dog or one that is more inactive.
Younger dogs that are more active will require more food for fuel than older or inactive dogs. It is best to feed a high quality commercial food and supplement it two or three times a week with a small amount of meat. While the activity level of the dog will determine the amount of food you give the dog, most will take two cups of food a day and you should remove any uneaten portions after thirty minutes.
Although the activity of your dog will determine the amount you give them. The best food to choose for you dog is one that is high in protein. Instead of wheat, rice or corn your food choices should contain more lamb, fish or chicken.
While meat based foods can be more expensive they will have long-term benefits on German Shepherd health. If possible avoid feeding your dog any food that contains additives.
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