German shepherd Lifespan: German Shepherds have a lifespan that is shorter than average when compared to other breeds of dogs. There are many theories on why this is the case, but the most likely explanation is that German Shepherds are more prone to health problems than other breeds.
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These health problems can take a toll on a dog’s lifespan, and German Shepherds tend to experience them at a younger age than other breeds.
German shepherd Lifespan is short due to a number of factors, including genetic predisposition and lifestyle choices. German Shepherds are prone to a number of health problems, including cancer and heart disease, and many owners choose to breed them because of their popularity rather than because they believe that their dogs will have a long lifespan.
What is the average German Shepherd lifespan?
The average lifespan of a German Shepherd is between seven and ten years, as stated by the American Kennel Club. In order to put that into perspective, the typical lifespan of a dog is somewhere between 10 and 13 years.
The average lifespan of a Chihuahua is between 15 and 17 years, that of a Biewer Terrier is approximately 16 years, and a Pyrenean Shepherd can live to be nearly 20 years old.
Common German Shepherd health issues
There are certain factors that contribute to the shorter lifespan of German Shepherds, which may not seem fair to some people.
To begin, the German Shepherd is significantly larger than the average lifespan dog breed.
When compared to their larger canine counterparts, smaller dogs have a greater propensity to live longer and have a lower risk of passing away from cancer.
Also Read: Diarrhea in Dogs: Treatment & Causes
Pyrenean Shepherds, for instance, typically weigh anywhere between 15 and 30 pounds, which is a significant reduction compared to that of a German Shepherd. They too have the longest average lifespan.
In addition, German Shepherds are predisposed to a number of diseases and disorders that can shorten their life and negatively affect their general health and wellbeing, such as the following:
- The external otitis (an infection in the outer ear canal)
- Obesity
- Bloat Dental illness
- Cardiovascular disease
- Musculoskeletal disorders
- Coagulation of the blood
- Inability to stand
One study that was conducted in the United Kingdom found that the last two on the list, which was musculoskeletal diseases and an inability to stand, were the two leading causes of death.
How to keep your German Shepherd healthy and happy
German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the world. They make wonderful pets and have a lot of personalities. However, like any other breed, German Shepherds require some care to stay healthy and happy.
Here are 5 tips to keep your German Shepherd healthy and happy:
- Get a German Shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder who has been tested for common genetic diseases.
- Keep your German Shepherd on a leash when outside, especially if there is any livestock around.
- Feed your German Shepherd a high-quality diet that meets their nutritional needs.
- Regularly take your German Shepherd for walks and play sessions to keep them exercised and stimulated.
- Protect your German Shepherd from fleas and ticks by using appropriate flea and tick products on them regularly
Things to be taken care of to keep German shepherd Lifespan Good
Diet
You should feed your German Shepherd a dog food that has been approved by the AAFCO and is nutritionally complete. It is always a best practice to discuss the quantity and frequency of feedings for your German Shepherd with your trusted vet or any existing GSD owner. It is recommended by veterinarians that you feed German Shepherd puppies growth food formulated for large breeds if you are receiving them as puppies. Their pace of growth may be slowed as a result of the meal, but they will still attain the size typical for their breed. It may lessen the likelihood of developing hip dyslexia in later years.
Vet visits and immunizations
It is important to visit the veterinarian on a consistent basis because early intervention can sometimes lead to better outcomes. In addition, there are diseases that can be avoided entirely, such as rabies and heartworms. Vaccinations on schedule and monthly preventative care will assist in reducing the occurrence of diseases that are not necessary.
Cleaning of the ears
Ear infections are common in German Shepherds because of their long ears. Cleansing on a weekly basis can remove the buildup of bacteria and debris that can cause inflammation and illnesses.
Dental care
Dental issues in a German shepherd can make eating painful for the dog as a whole dog may stay away from eating the hard kibbles. According to veterinarians, the easiest strategy to reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth is to brush at least once every day for one minute.
Conclusion
The lifespan of these gentle giants is significantly shorter compared to that of other breeds. The life expectancy of a German Shepherd is between 7 and 10 years, which is lower than those of breeds of smaller size. Musculoskeletal problems are more common in German Shepherds than in other dog breeds.
They also run the risk of developing obesity. In general, larger breeds have a higher risk of developing cancer compared to smaller breeds. It is possible to lessen the likelihood of certain health problems by ensuring that your dog consumes nutritious food and gets plenty of exercises.
