German Shepherd Health

Generally the German Shepherd is a healthy breed that can live an average of 12 to 16 years. If you have a well-bred German Shepherd then it likely won't have any major problems. However, even an excellent German Shepherd is still susceptible to Canine Hip Dysphasia or CHD, which is a developmental skeletal problem in which the femur of the dog doesn't sit correctly within the hip socket. Other minor German Shepherd health problems include Von Willebrand's Disease, which is a blood disease that weakens the dog's ability to form blood clots. If you do not care for your dog or bathe them regularly then they can also develop skin allergies.

An important part of caring for your German Shepherd's health is a balanced diet. You need to give them fresh food in order for them to have a long and happy life. Fresh meats such a turkey, chicken and beef are okay. Although you should also mix in some vegetables, rice and eggs for a balanced diet.

By feeding a good and healthy diet, brushing the teeth as often as possible, regular grooming and providing plenty of exercise and attention you can make sure you keep your German Shepherd in excellent health. In order to spot any common German Shepherd health conditions before they become serious it is a good idea to perform a weekly home health exam. This can also help you to easily detect any changes that can occur due to injury, disease or dog related emergencies because you will be aware of your dog's body.

The best way that you can care for your dog is by taking them to the veterinarian on a regular basis. A veterinarian will make sure all vaccinations are current while performing a regular physical and health exam. You want to have a veterinarian that is familiar with the health problems of a German Shepherd and can successfully deal with any hereditary disease common to the breed.

Diet plays an important part in maintaining good German Shepherd health. Each month an adult German Shepherd will easily eat about forty pounds of dry food. Although the metabolism of the individual dog and their activity level can change this amount.

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.

Even though meat based foods are more expensive they will benefit your German Shepherd's health in the long run. You should also avoid feeding your dog any food that contains additives if possible.