dog breed
German Shepherd Health Guide
Evidence-based breed health intelligence covering genetic predispositions, common conditions, and preventative care for German Shepherds.
Breed Type
dog
Size
Large
Life Expectancy
9-13 years
Conditions Tracked
6
3 High Risk
2 Moderate Risk
1 Low Risk
High Risk Conditions
3Degenerative Myelopathy
16% at-risk, 31.6% carriers prevalenceNeurologicalAutosomal Recessive inheritance
Progressive spinal cord disease
Typical onset: Disease onset typically 8-14 years of age — Disease onset typically 8-14 years of age
Preventative measures
- •Physical therapy
- •Genetic testing
- •Early detection
Elbow Dysplasia
Common prevalenceMusculoskeletalPolygenic inheritance
Elbow joint malformation
Typical onset: Appears during rapid growth phase — Appears during rapid growth phase
Preventative measures
- •Weight management
- •Controlled exercise
- •Screening
Hip Dysplasia
20.4% prevalenceMusculoskeletalPolygenic inheritance
Hip joint malformation
Typical onset: Symptoms typically appear 2-10 years — Symptoms typically appear 2-10 years
Preventative measures
- •Maintain healthy weight
- •Swimming exercise
- •Joint supplements
Moderate Risk Conditions
2Bloat (GDV)
Gastric torsion and bloating.
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
GastrointestinalAutosomal Recessive inheritance
Digestive enzyme deficiency.
Low Risk Conditions
1Allergies
Skin allergies and reactions.
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