Caring For Your German Shepherd

Often the German Shepherd is a very healthy breed that is capable to living an average of 12 to 16 years. For those with a well-bred German Shepherd it is unlikely that they will have any major health problems. However, all German Shepherds are susceptible to certain health conditions. This includes Canine Hip Dysphasia or CHD in which the skeleton has a developmental problem and the femur doesn't sit correctly within the hip socket. Another condition is Von Willebrand's Disease, which is a blood disease that affects the ability to the dog's blood to form clots. Without proper care and regular baths a German Shepherd can also develop skin allergies.

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.

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.

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.

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.

You should choose a food that is high in protein. Instead of wheat, rice or corn your food choice should focus more on 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.

About the Author

About the author: Jan Ryan is an avid lover of the German Shepherd and owns a popular website that can teach you how to have a happy, healthy and well behaved German Shepherd. Among other topics at this website, you will find out more about German Shepherd Health plus a whole lot more.