What Is The Treatment
Treatment depends upon the pet’s clinical signs and amount of discomfort. There are very effective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that have minimal side effects. The choice of medication is made on an individual basis, and various drugs may be tried before finding the most effective one.
“Treatment depends upon the pet’s clinical signs and amount of discomfort.”
Most dogs with hip dysplasia should receive veterinary-approved glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and omega-3 fatty acid nutritional supplements. Many dogs with painful hip dysplasia will benefit from polysulfated glycosaminoglycan injections on a regular basis. Moderate daily exercise, avoiding high impact activities such as jumping, may help keep the patient mobile and strengthen surrounding support structures.
Physical therapy has been demonstrated to be highly effective at improving an affected dog’s quality of life and should be part of any treatment regimen. Since excess weight puts undue stress on the hip joints, weight loss is strongly recommended in overweight dogs.
So How Long Can A Dog Live With Hip Dysplasia
This is a diagnosis that is not lethal, so your dog will live a relatively long life even with the diagnosis of dysplasia. Dysplasia is a hip or coxofemoral joint disease and it wont affect the longevity of your dog.
However, the drugs that are commonly used to manage the disease NSAIDs can have some serious side effects like decreased heart function, kidney damage, and high blood pressure.
These side effects can decrease your dogs life if they are not managed properly.
This is yet another reason why we see great potential in Stem Cell Therapy, as it does not harm the body.
Does A German Shepherds Hip Dysplasia Shorten Its Life Span
Unfortunately, canine hip dysplasia can shorten a German shepherds life span. This is because the condition can cause pain and lameness. As time goes by, the hips will deteriorate, and this will make it harder for your German shepherd to walk, run, and play.
They become less active, making it harder for them to keep playing with you, or your kids if you have any.
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How To Prevent Hip Dysplasia In Dogs
At this time, there is no known way to prevent hip dysplasia in dogs. It appears to be a hereditary condition, and many dogs, especially large and giant breeds, are born with it.
Its recommended to start joint supplements for high-risk dogs as early as 3 months of age to ensure good joint health and protect the cartilage of the joints.
You should also work with your vet to make sure that you keep your dog at a healthy weight. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the amount of stress on a dogs joints.
Mingle With The Neighborhood Dogs
Elderly dogs are still eager for connection and playtime, so take some time to coordinate dog playdates with other mature dogs in your neighborhood. Just try to avoid pairing your older dog with a puppy or a young adult, as they could actually harm your pet while playing rough. If you dont know anyone with a dog nearby, try a dog park.
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Hip Dysplasia And How It Develops
Hip dysplasia is most often a hereditary and congenital condition that can plague any breed of dog but is usually found in large breeds such as Saint Bernard, Great Dane, Labrador retriever, and the German shepherd.
This disorder can be inherited from the parents and is one reason for using a reputable breeder. Good breeders do not breed animals with known genetic disorders.
Functioning hip joints have a hip socket and a ball on the femur which fits well in the socket making for smooth, fluid movement.
When hip dysplasia occurs, the hip socket and femur ball do not fit properly due to a deformity of the ball, causing grinding and rubbing. This, in turn, will cause the wearing down of cartilage resulting in friction with pain and the eventual deterioration of the joint.
Hip dysplasia can develop even as puppies and can occur even if the parents are clear from a disposition to it. German shepherd Puppies are extremely active and although exercise is good for your pup, overdoing it when bones and joints are still forming can initiate medical issues.
Any kind of hip injury as a puppy can cause hip dysplasia to develop and in an adult prompt a hereditary form of dysplasia to accelerate rapidly.
To ensure in part that the German shepherd puppy you get from your breeder is clear on the breeding end for hip dysplasia, you should make sure your breeder has certified the hips of both the mother and the father.
German Shepherd Build And Temperament
German Shepherds have been bred to be the way that they are today. That means that there are certain things that the original breeders hoped to develop with this particular type of dog. The most common characteristics that German Shepherds are revered for include:
- Being strong. German Shepherds are quite strong and are capable of handling physically demanding tasks. Their fur and their bodies also allow them to be relatively comfortable even in unpleasant environments. Which makes have good joints and bone structure essential.
- Being intelligent. German Shepherds are among the smartest dog breeds and can be taught to perform fairly complicated tasks. Training them, thanks to their intelligence and their need for mental stimulation, can be quite fun and rewarding.
- Having a good temperament. While Shepherds will certainly become aggressive if they are protecting their owners, the rest of the time they are known for being quite calm and happy. This makes them good for families.
- Being energetic. Some people might not consider this a positive trait, because Shepherds need to have ample exercise time every day. If not, theyll begin to find other outlets for their energy, not all of which are pleasant for their owners!
In addition to that, shepherds have a natural drive to be productive. They like making their owners happy and take pride in being able to do a job well done.
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How To Manageyour Dogs Hip Dysplasia
One of the common dog health problems is hip dysplasia a condition that can affect any dog, although it is more common in some breeds over others. Although dog hip dysplasia can be a debilitating condition, it is really important to remember:
while there may have to be some changes made in your dogs life in order to accommodate the condition, there is treatment available that will enable them to continue enjoying life.
In this article, we will find out what exactly is dog hip dysplasia, what can cause it, what are the signs of this condition and how can it be treated to ensure your four-legged friend will enjoy his life on the fullest.
Longevity And Quality Of Life
The majority of dogs with hip dysplasia live a normal lifespan. Most do not experience any significant disability from the disease, and some do not even require treatment. Even in severe cases, options are available to help reduce pain and maintain adequate mobility. If you are concerned that hip dysplasia is negatively affecting your dogs life, you can ask your veterinarian for a quality of life exam to discuss further options for your dogs care.
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Teach Them And Engage Them Something New
It is a myth that you cannot teach an old dog new tricks. This may be the right time to teach them some new tricks.
It helps keep their brain engaged- we all need it as we progress into our old age. Whether you want to teach your German Shepherd how to shake or refresh him with some of the tricks he knows as a little dog, reward your progress and effort by teaching your dog sometime each day.
Other Remedies For Hip Dysplasia Pain
For less severe cases of hip dysplasia, a veterinarian may recommend one or more of these treatment options:
- Physical therapy to improve muscle strength to stabilize the joint
- Hydrotherapy which uses water to aid in healing
- Diet changes for better nutrition or weight loss
- Exercise restriction to avoid worsening the condition
- Anti-inflammatory and other medications for pain relief
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How To Prevent Periodontal Disease
Make sure you take your German Shepherd for routine dental cleanings once a year with your veterinarian. This will help to prevent the build up of tarter and plaque.
What Is The Average Life Expectancy Of German Shepherd
The life expectancy of a German shepherd is relatively long.
In fact, they can live more than ten years if they are kept healthy and happy, according to the American Kennel Club.
The average lifespan of a German shepherd is about 10 to 13 years.
There are some factors that can affect a German shepherds lifespan, such as obesity and lack of exercise.
Being a dog that likes to hunt, herd, and guard, it is important for a German shepherd to have a lot of exercise and human interaction.
If the dog also has an owner who is physically inactive, this will keep the dog from gaining weight, which can shorten its lifespan.
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German Shepherd Lifespan: 15 Tips To Increase Life Expectancy
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If you wish to know how to increase your German Shepherds lifespan, then congratulations, you have come to the right place. This blog provides scientifically proven methods for extending the lifespan of this lovely breed. So, to give your four-legged friend the best opportunity for a happy and healthy life with you, follow the tips!
So, how long do german shepherds live? German Shepherds live an average of 11 years, despite a defined age. In dog years, thats a 77-year-old average. Unfortunately, dogs do not live as long as we want. However, German Shepherds can have quite long lives compared to other large breeds, especially if they are kept active and receive proper veterinary treatment when necessary.
Contents
How Does Hip Dysplasia Develop
Now that you know what canine hip dysplasia is, its time to take a look at how your German shepherd can develop this problem.
Hip dysplasia is often associated with genetics. In other words, its common for German shepherds to inherit this problem from their parents. If the dogs mom or dad has hip dysplasia, theres a greater chance that the offspring will, too.
Of course, this isnt the only factor that determines whether a German shepherd will develop hip dysplasia. Their weight and rapid growth rate are also considerations.
For example, a German shepherd puppy that grows too fast is more likely to develop this problem. The same goes for an obese German shepherd. Excessive weight can put more pressure on the dogs hips, which then causes the socket to deform.
Hip dysplasia usually becomes apparent when a German shepherd is around 4 to 6 months old. In some cases, the signs may not show until the dog reaches 1 year old or older.
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How Can I Alleviate My German Shepherds Symptoms Of Hip Dysplasia
If your vet indicates it, you can give your pooch pain medications, like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs, to reduce pain and inflammation.
You can help your German Shepherd with everyday tasks, such as getting in and out of the car or bed, avoiding the use of stairs, and monitoring signs that may indicate pain.
Exercise And Weight Control
Just like humans, dogs need exercise to maintain and support good health. Exercise increases circulation, oxygen intake and builds strong muscles. Exercise will also keep your dog limber, which is good for the health of her back and hips. Plus its fun, and your intelligent German Shepherd needs fun as much as she needs to get her blood flowing. Exercise will use up excess energy and will tucker your dog out, leaving less energy for mischief.
There is a serious reason for regularly exercising your German Shepherd, in addition to it being fun and using energy that might otherwise go towards antics. It is incredibly important to maintain your German Shepherds weight. This is a serious health issue for any dog, but with German Shepherds propensity towards joint issues, it makes it of the utmost importance.
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Signs Of Hip Dysplasia
Signs of hip dysplasia vary in dogs. Some affected dogs will begin showing symptoms of hip dysplasia as puppies, while others may not have any symptoms until their senior years when secondary osteoarthritis develops. Still, others may not show signs of hip dysplasia at all.
Signs of hip dysplasia in dogs can include:
- Lameness, particularly after exercise
- Loss of muscle mass in the dogs hips and hind legs
- An abnormal swinging or bunny hopping gait
- Reluctance to exercise
- Difficulty getting up or using stairs
Many other conditions can cause similar clinical signs, so your dog will need to see a veterinarian in order to diagnose hip dysplasia. Your veterinarian will perform a full physical examination, often including a gait evaluation and palpating the joints to assess the range of motion. Your veterinarian will likely recommend radiographs , which are the most common diagnostic test for canine hip dysplasia.
Do All German Shepherds Have Bad Hips
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German Shepherds are loved for many reasons, such as their intelligence, loyalty, and strength. In many ways, they are the quintessential dog, whether for working or for companionship. But like many large dog breeds, they can be prone to developing bad hips. So, do all German Shepherds have bad hips?
Not all German Shepherds have bad hips, but hip dysplasia is the most prevalent of hip problems. The most recent statistics from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals is that 20.5% of German Shepherds had hip dysplasia from 128,645 evaluations through December 2019.
This article will discuss why German Shepherds commonly experience hip dysplasia and what can help prevent it. You should know there are various degrees of hip dysplasia and a range of treatment options are available.
Well also look at some other types of hip problems that the GSD is predisposed to.
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So, lets dive into everything there is to know about German Shepherd hip dysplasia and other hip problems.
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Intensity Of Welfare Impact
Though some dogs may be mildly affected, for many German Shepherd dogs with hip dysplasia, the impact of the condition is major and life changing. These animals suffer pain that is severe and debilitating, leading them to be in pain even with small everyday movements such as standing up. Their quality of life is severely affected so that they are unable to enjoy normal canine behaviours such as walking and running. It is not uncommon for dogs to be euthanased due to the pain and disability of arthritis associated with hip dysplasia.
Glucosamine For Dogs With Joint Disease
Large breed dog foods often contain joint supplements like glucosamine. If your veterinarian diagnoses your dog with arthritis, glucosamine will likely be part of a comprehensive treatment plan. They will most likely recommend a chewable supplement with a veterinarian-grade dose of glucosamine and chondroitin.
You can also purchase supplements with these ingredients for dogs that might be prone to developing arthritis and hip dysplasia down the line. Joint supplements are often used as an early intervention and throughout the progression of arthritis, as they are safe for long-term use in most patients. While research is still limited, these supplements may help reduce symptoms of hip dysplasia.
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Routine Care Diet And Exercise
Build her routine care into your schedule to help your GSD live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine.
- Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. This will keep her out of trouble and away from objects she shouldnt put in her mouth.
- She needs a thorough brushing at least weekly most of the year. Twice a year she blows her coat and loses crazy amounts of hair daily brushing is recommended during this time.
- German Shepherd Dogs generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week!
- Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. Dont worrywell show you how!
- She has a high prey drive, so she needs to be leash walked and a fenced yard is a must.
- Shes a large smart dog with lots of energy, so keep her mind and body active, or shell get bored. Thats when the naughty stuff starts.
- Naturally a bit wary, shes distrustful of strangers bond her to children early to trigger protective behaviors.
- Keep your dogs diet consistent and dont give her people food.
- Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age.
- Exercise your dog regularly, but dont overdo it at first.