German Shepherd dogs are susceptible to sicknesses. If you are going to get the best out of your dog, ensuring its longevity, you’ll need to monitor your dog and detect symptoms. Being able to quickly observe changes in your dog and taking appropriate actions can save the life of your GSD. In this article, we’ll discuss 8 common German Shepherd sicknesses and symptoms.
German Shepherd Sicknesses and Symptoms
The following are some of the most common German Shepherd sicknesses and symptoms:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Degenerative Myelopathy
- Bloat
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Pancreatitis
- Hypothyroidism
- Osteoarthritis
- EPI (Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency)
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a significant concern for German Shepherd owners due to its hereditary nature and the severe impact it can have on a dog’s quality of life. This condition occurs when the hip joint fails to fit properly into the hip socket, leading to instability and, over time, arthritis.
This can cause significant pain and difficulty in movement for affected dogs. It’s heart-wrenching to watch a once energetic and playful German Shepherd struggle with the simple act of getting up or moving around.
As a hereditary condition, hip dysplasia is often seen in breeds like German Shepherds, which are genetically predisposed. However, genetics are just one part of the story. Factors like nutrition, environmental changes, and even fractures can contribute to or exacerbate the condition.
Responsible breeding practices and early screening can help manage the risks, but once a dog develops hip dysplasia, managing their pain and maintaining mobility become the primary goals. Understanding the symptoms and early signs can make a significant difference in how effectively the condition is treated.
| Cause | Description |
| Nutrition | Poor diet and obesity can exacerbate the condition by placing extra stress on the joints. |
| Fracture | Previous injuries can lead to or worsen hip dysplasia. |
| Environmental Changes | Lack of proper exercise and environmental stressors can influence the development. |
| Genetics | Inherited predisposition from the dog’s parents is a major cause. |
| Symptom | Description |
| Decreased Range of Motion | Limited ability to move the hip joint freely. |
| Difficulty Getting Up | Struggling to stand up, especially after resting. |
| Stiffness in the Back | Stiff or sore back due to compensating for hip pain. |
| Abnormal Sitting Positions | Sitting in unusual or awkward positions to avoid discomfort. |
| Reluctance to Exercise | Avoiding physical activity that was previously enjoyed. |
| Difficulty Climbing or Jumping | Problems with climbing stairs or jumping onto furniture or into cars. |
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative myelopathy is a devastating condition that predominantly affects older German Shepherds, typically those around 8 years of age or older. This disease targets the spinal cord, leading to a progressive loss of motor function.
It often begins with subtle signs of hindleg weakness, but as the disease advances, it can result in complete paralysis. Witnessing a beloved pet slowly loses its ability to walk and move freely is incredibly heartbreaking for any owner.
The root cause of degenerative myelopathy is linked to inherited changes in a gene called superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1). While there is no cure for this condition, early diagnosis and supportive care can help manage symptoms and maintain a dog’s quality of life for as long as possible.
Recognizing the early signs, such as swaying while moving or crisscrossing legs while standing, can prompt timely veterinary intervention, which is crucial for slowing the progression and ensuring the dog remains comfortable.
| Cause | Description |
| Inherited Gene (SOD1) Mutation | Changes to the superoxide dismutase 1 gene are the primary cause of this disease. |
| Symptom | Description |
| Swaying While Moving | Unsteady gait, especially in the hind legs. |
| Trouble Swallowing | Difficulty in swallowing food or water. |
| Loss of Bowel Control | Inability to control bowel movements. |
| Loss of Bladder Control | Inability to control urination. |
| Poor Coordination | Difficulty coordinating movements, leading to a wobbly gait. |
| Loss of Balance | Frequent stumbling or falling due to balance issues. |
| Criss-crossing Legs While Standing | Hind legs crossing over each other when the dog is standing. |
| Weakness in the Legs | Gradual weakening of the muscles, primarily in the hind legs. |
Bloat
Bloat, also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), is a critical medical emergency that German Shepherd owners must be vigilant about. This condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas, twists on itself, and becomes blocked. This prevents the dog from being able to expel the gas, leading to severe discomfort and potential life-threatening complications.
German Shepherds, being deep-chested dogs, are particularly susceptible to bloat, making it essential for owners to recognize the signs and seek immediate veterinary attention if they suspect their dog is suffering from it.
Bloat can develop rapidly and requires urgent care to prevent serious outcomes. Causes can vary from factors like exercising immediately after eating to issues related to weight and diet.
For instance, eating or drinking excessively, especially from elevated bowls, can increase the risk. Recognizing symptoms such as a swollen, hard belly or unproductive retching is crucial. If your German Shepherd shows these signs, along with restlessness and excessive panting, it’s imperative to seek emergency veterinary care right away to save their life.
| Cause | Description |
| Exercising Just After Eating | Physical activity immediately after meals can cause the stomach to twist. |
| Delayed Gastric Emptying | Slower movement of food through the digestive system can contribute to bloat. |
| Being Over or Underweight | Improper weight can influence the risk of developing bloat. |
| Eating and Drinking Too Much | Overconsumption can lead to excessive gas build-up in the stomach. |
| Elevated Bowls | Eating from elevated bowls may increase the risk of bloat in some dogs. |
| Symptom | Description |
| A Swollen, Hard Belly | The abdomen becomes distended and feels hard to the touch. |
| Retching but Not Vomiting | Attempts to vomit without bringing anything up. |
| Drooling | Excessive saliva production, often due to nausea. |
| Pain in the Abdomen When Touched | Signs of discomfort or pain when the abdomen is pressed. |
| Excessive Panting | Rapid, heavy breathing indicates distress. |
| Restlessness | Inability to settle, constant pacing or moving around due to discomfort. |
Elbow Dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia is a genetic condition that impacts the development of the elbow joint, often leading to significant discomfort and mobility issues for affected German Shepherds. This condition typically manifests as the dog matures, causing the cartilage in the elbow joint to develop improperly.
This improper development can result in joint instability, pain, and ultimately, arthritis. Watching a German Shepherd struggle with elbow dysplasia can be distressing, as their usual energy and playfulness are replaced with reluctance to exercise and visible discomfort.
While the precise cause of elbow dysplasia is not definitively known, research suggests several contributing factors. These include defects in cartilage growth, trauma, and diet. Ensuring that a German Shepherd maintains a healthy diet and weight can help manage the condition and alleviate some symptoms.
Owners need to recognize early signs such as stiffness in the front legs or an unusual outward turn of the feet. Early intervention can improve the dog’s quality of life significantly and delay the progression of arthritis associated with elbow dysplasia.
| Cause | Description |
| Defects in Cartilage Growth | Abnormal development of cartilage in the elbow joint. |
| Trauma | Injury to the elbow joint can exacerbate the condition. |
| Diet | Poor nutrition or an imbalanced diet contributes to joint health issues. |
| Symptom | Description |
| Reluctance to Exercise | Avoiding physical activity due to pain or discomfort in the elbow joint. |
| Stiffness in One or Both Front Legs | Difficulty in moving the front legs, noticeable stiffness. |
| Feet of the Front Limbs Appear Turned Out | Front paws pointing outward, indicating joint issues. |
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is a painful and potentially serious condition characterized by inflammation of the pancreas. This condition is often triggered by dietary factors, particularly the consumption of high-fat foods.
For German Shepherds, maintaining a balanced diet is crucial to avoid the risk of pancreatitis. When the pancreas becomes inflamed, it can lead to severe abdominal pain, prompting the dog to adopt a “praying position” where they stretch their front legs forward and their rear end up, in an attempt to alleviate the discomfort.
Managing pancreatitis involves identifying and mitigating its triggers, which can include not only a high-fat diet but also obesity, diabetes mellitus, severe trauma, certain medications, and genetic predispositions.
Understanding the causes and recognizing the symptoms early can significantly improve the outcome for a dog diagnosed with pancreatitis.
| Cause | Description |
| High-Fat Diet | Consumption of fatty foods can trigger inflammation in the pancreas. |
| Obesity | Excess body weight increases the risk of developing pancreatitis. |
| Severe Blunt Trauma | Physical injury to the abdomen can lead to pancreatic inflammation. |
| Diabetes Mellitus | This metabolic disorder is a known risk factor for pancreatitis. |
| Medications | Certain drugs can induce pancreatitis as a side effect. |
| Genetic | Some dogs are genetically predisposed to developing pancreatitis. |
| Symptom | Description |
| Severe Abdominal Pain | Intense pain in the abdomen often causes the dog to adopt a “praying position.” |
| Vomiting | Frequent vomiting, which can be severe and persistent. |
| Lethargy | Marked decrease in energy and activity levels. |
| Nausea | Signs of nausea, such as lip licking and drooling. |
| Fever | Elevated body temperature indicates an inflammatory response. |
| Diarrhea | Loose, watery stools that can be persistent. |
| Decreased Appetite | Reluctance to eat leads to weight loss and weakness. |
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce sufficient hormones, which can lead to a wide range of health issues in German Shepherds. This endocrine disorder slows down the metabolism, causing various physical and behavioral changes that can significantly impact a dog’s quality of life.
Owners often notice their pets gaining weight despite no change in their diet, and the dogs may also develop skin infections and show signs of cold intolerance. It’s crucial to recognize these symptoms early, as untreated hypothyroidism can lead to more severe health complications.
The primary causes of hypothyroidism in German Shepherds are lymphocytic thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, and idiopathic atrophy, where the thyroid gland shrinks for unknown reasons. Regular veterinary check-ups and blood tests can help diagnose this condition.
Once diagnosed, hypothyroidism is typically managed with hormone replacement therapy, which can significantly improve a dog’s symptoms and overall well-being. Monitoring the dog’s response to treatment and adjusting dosages as needed is essential for effective management.
| Cause | Description |
| Lymphocytic Thyroiditis | Autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. |
| Idiopathic Atrophy of the Thyroid Gland | The thyroid gland shrinks for unknown reasons, leading to reduced hormone production. |
| Symptom | Description |
| Weight Gain | Unexplained increase in weight despite normal diet and exercise levels. |
| Skin Infection | Frequent skin infections due to weakened immune response and skin changes. |
| Cold Intolerance | Sensitivity to cold temperatures, often seeking warm places. |
| Darkening of the Skin | Hyperpigmentation, leading to darker patches of skin. |
| Constant Shedding | Excessive hair loss and constant shedding, leading to a thin coat. |
| Lack of Interest in Activities | Decreased energy and enthusiasm for previously enjoyed activities. |
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that often affects aging German Shepherds, leading to chronic pain and reduced mobility.
As German Shepherds age, the wear and tear on their joints can lead to the breakdown of cartilage, causing bones to rub against each other. This results in inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the affected joints. Watching a once-active dog struggle with the discomfort of osteoarthritis can be heart-wrenching, as their mobility and quality of life diminish.
Several factors can contribute to the development of osteoarthritis in German Shepherds. These include injuries from trauma, hip and elbow dysplasia, cruciate ligament injuries, and dislocations of the shoulder or knee.
Early detection and management are crucial to slowing the progression of this disease and improving the dog’s quality of life.
| Cause | Description |
| Injury Due to Trauma | Damage to joints from accidents or injuries. |
| Hip Dysplasia | Abnormal development of the hip joint leading to joint degeneration. |
| Elbow Dysplasia | Abnormal development of the elbow joint causing wear and tear. |
| Cruciate Injury | Damage to the cruciate ligament in the knee, leading to joint instability. |
| Dislocations of the Shoulder or Knee | Joint dislocations causing chronic damage and inflammation. |
| Symptom | Description |
| Joint Pain | Chronic pain in the affected joints, often worsening with activity. |
| Stiffness | Reduced flexibility and difficulty in moving joints, especially after rest. |
| Reduced Mobility | Decreased ability to move, run, or jump; reluctance to exercise. |
EPI (Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency)
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) is a serious condition that affects a dog’s ability to digest and absorb nutrients properly due to insufficient production of pancreatic enzymes. This leads to malabsorption and subsequent malnutrition, regardless of the dog’s appetite or food intake.
German Shepherds are particularly prone to EPI, and it can be a challenging condition for both the dog and the owner to manage. Symptoms such as significant weight loss, chronic diarrhea, and a poor coat condition are indicative of EPI and can severely impact a dog’s health and quality of life.
The primary causes of EPI in German Shepherds include pancreatic acinar atrophy, where the cells that produce digestive enzymes deteriorate, and chronic pancreatitis, which leads to long-term inflammation and damage to the pancreas.
Diagnosing EPI typically involves blood tests and fecal analysis to measure enzyme levels. Once diagnosed, EPI is managed through enzyme replacement therapy, dietary adjustments, and ongoing veterinary care. With proper treatment, many dogs with EPI can live relatively normal, healthy lives.
| Cause | Description |
| Pancreatic Acinar Atrophy | Degeneration of the cells in the pancreas that produce digestive enzymes. |
| Chronic Pancreatitis | Long-term inflammation of the pancreas leading to enzyme-producing cell damage. |
| Symptom | Description |
| Weight Loss | Significant loss of weight despite normal or increased appetite. |
| Diarrhea | Chronic, loose, and often foul-smelling stools. |
| Poor Coat Condition | Dull, dry coat with possible hair loss, reflecting poor nutrient absorption. |
Final Thoughts on Common German Shepherd Sicknesses and Symptoms
Early detection is key in fixing a good number of these German Shepherd illnesses and symptoms. For others, your dog will leave with the condition for the rest of their lives through physical therapy.
Ole Dog House began in 2000 and was officially incorporated in 2004, strengthened by a technical partnership with Samantha Straub of Von Der Burg Loisenthal Kennels in South Africa. Over the past two and a half decades, our kennel has established itself as a leader in Nigeria’s canine industry, producing top-quality German Shepherd Dogs that strictly adhere to WUSV standards.
We are proud members of WUSV, the German Shepherd Dog Federation of South Africa, and the International Society for the Preservation and Advancement of the East German Shepherd Dog. Our commitment to excellence has taken us to GSD specialty shows and elite kennels across South Africa, Europe, and the Americas, expanding our knowledge and refining our breeding practices.
At Ole Dog House, our mission is to nurture a community of ethical breeders and passionate dog enthusiasts who are committed to preserving the integrity of the German Shepherd breed. Whether you are an experienced breeder, a first-time owner, or simply an admirer of this exceptional breed, we are here to provide valuable insights and expert guidance.
Thank you for visiting OleDogHouse.com—your trusted source for all things German Shepherd. Welcome to a world where excellence and passion for the breed unite!
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