German Shepherd Health
The German Shepherd is a typically healthy breed that
can live an average of 12 to 16 years. It is unlikely
that a German Shepherd will have any major health problems
if they are well bred. However, like all pets German
Shepherds are susceptible to certain health conditions.
Some German Shepherd health conditions that can occur
include Canine Hip Dysphasic or CHD, which is a developmental
problem of the skeleton in which the femur doesn't sit
correctly in the hip socket. Von Willebrand's Disease
is another common German Shepherd health problem in
which the dog's blood is unable to form clots. A German
Shepherd can also develop skin allergies if they do
not receive proper care and regular baths.
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.
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.
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.
A young dog that is more active will require additional
fuel than an older or inactive dog. The best option
is to buy a high quality commercial food and then supplement
it with a small amount of meat about two or three times
a week. Give two cups a day of food and after thirty
minutes remove any uneaten portions.
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.
About the Author:
Jan Ryan is an avid lover of the German Shepherd and
owns a popular website that can show you how to have
a happy, healthy and well behaved German
Shepherd.
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